Low-code platforms as an enabler for value creation

Abstract: Digitalization and development of technologies in this era have increased tremendously andresulted in a demand for even better solutions to current problems. The lack of softwaredevelopers is for instance an obstacle for companies to grow and be more productive when tryingto create applications because some software is only limited to IT experts. Therefore it is seen asimportant to create solutions with applications in other ways than traditional coding, such asusing low-code platforms. For this reason, the purpose of this study is to identify the challenges,possibilities, and value of using a low-code platform by citizen developers without previousprogramming knowledge. Based on the purpose, the following research questions are addressed:1. What are the challenges with using low-code platforms?2. What are the possibilities with using low-code platforms?3. What type of value can be created when using low-code platforms?This case study was a collaboration with Mälardalen Industrial Technology Center (MITC)where the issue concerned a need for a proper digital booking system for the organization's roomsand tools. This resulted in the idea of creating an application with a suitable low-code platform.The used platform for this study was mainly PowerApps by Microsoft. This qualitative study hasbeen approached with a deductive method where the study is based on existing theories.Empirical data were obtained from interviews with people from MITC, a researcher from MDU,and an employee from Company X.The conclusions of the challenges with LCP are that it can be difficult in the beginning ofimplementation, and some knowledge in programming is needed before using it. This is becausemore complex codes might be needed when using LCPs. It can also increase the security riskswhen it comes to for instance data availability and give access to the wrong people. There isalmost no information about the utilization of LCPs which is another challenge that might leadto hesitation for new users of LCPs. The economic challenges are stopping small and largeorganizations from becoming more cost-effective since it limits the choice of platforms due tobeing advanced or expensive. The technical challenges are mostly because of the limitations ofprogramming experience among the citizen developers.Despite the challenges, LCP brings a lot of possibilities, one is that more people can developadvanced applications and enhance their own processes. This will increase the rapidity and savetime since it will be less coding than the traditional way. Another possibility is that there areseveral predictions mentioning the current demand and growth of LCP, which means thatcompanies can take advantage of these platforms to increase their competitiveness by generatinga final product faster when testing new ideas. Moreover, it can also remove non-value-addingactivities such as waiting time. Therefore, thanks to LCP, concepts can be created faster whichin turn will generate value for companies and save time. Finally, LCPs can create more value byproviding better visualization and companies can present ideas in a better way.Keywords: Citizen development, citizen developer, low-code, low-code platform (LCP), lowcode development platform, value creation, digitalization projects, value adding activities