While there are differing perspectives on the degree to which no-code and low-code development tools could eventually supplant human software developers, it’s clear that any software that takes care of the technical ‘heavy lifting’ is having a huge impact within businesses – in terms of opening app-building to more personnel, plugging the talent gap, and helping existing developers focus on more demanding tasks.
A Growing Market
A quick peek across the recent funding landscape shows little sign of the no-code / low-code movement slowing. In 2022 alone, we’ve seen the likes of Webflow draw in $120 million for a no-code website builder; Softr raise a $13.5 million Series A to help companies build apps on top of Airtable databases; Appsmith secure a $41 million Series B to power customized internal business apps; Retool attract a $45 million cash injection for a similar proposition; and Thunkable lock down a $30 million investment for a no-code mobile app development platform.
Budibase: A New Player in the Market
So despite the broader downturn, it seems that 2022 may have been relatively kind to startups operating in the no- and low-code sphere. Something that fledgling Northern Irish startup Budibase is capitalizing on with the announcement of a fresh $7 million tranche of funding to further develop an open source web app builder.
What is Budibase?
Founded out of Belfast in 2019, Budibase allows users to connect to an external data source – such as Postgres, MySQL, Oracle, Google Sheets or Airtable – and develop internal tools or business apps in minutes. Such apps can include user interfaces, dashboards, and workflows, all without the need for extensive coding knowledge.
How Does it Work?
Budibase uses a low-code approach to development, allowing users to build custom applications using pre-built components and templates. This makes it an attractive option for businesses that don’t have the resources or expertise to develop complex software solutions from scratch.
Benefits of Budibase
The benefits of using Budibase include:
- Rapid Development: Apps can be built quickly, without the need for extensive coding knowledge.
- Customization: Users can tailor their applications to meet specific business needs.
- Collaboration: Multiple users can work on a single project simultaneously.
A Look at its Community
Budibase has gained attention from some of the biggest tech companies in the world, including Google and Microsoft. Employees from these companies are active in the Budibase community, contributing to the platform’s development and providing feedback.
The Future of Development
As the demand for no-code and low-code solutions continues to grow, it’s likely that we’ll see more startups emerging in this space. With its latest funding round, Budibase is well-positioned to become a leading player in the market.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the rise of no-code and low-code development tools is revolutionizing the way businesses build software applications. With platforms like Budibase leading the charge, it’s clear that the future of development will be more accessible than ever before.
Recommended Reads
- The Rise of No-Code Development
- Low-Code Development: A Game-Changer for Businesses
- Budibase: The No-Code Platform Taking the World by Storm
About the Author
Paul Sawers is a senior writer based in London, focused largely (but not exclusively) on the world of UK and European startups. He also writes about other subjects that he’s passionate about, such as the business of open source software.
You can follow Paul on Twitter @paulsawers or reach out to him via email at paul.sawers@techcrunch.com.
