Why do traditional companies avoid no-code/low-code solutions?

First, let's define that no/low-code is not just a trend, but a huge industry that is rapidly developing and changing the approach to creating digital products. It covers a wide range of solutions: from mobile applications and CRM systems to business process automation. According to forecasts Gardener, by 2024 more than 65% of all applicationswill be created using low-code/ no-code platforms. This suggests that such tools are becoming an integral part of modern business. Read more about “Prospects of no code/low code in the next 10 years” articles.

However, in order to focus on a specific area, we will consider web development— one of the most popular areas of application of low-code solutions. As an example, let's take the platform Webflow — a tool in which we are certified experts and which we offer to our clients.

{{bg-grey}} So, for scientific and experimental purposes, let's ask a narrower question: why do traditional businesses avoid low-code technologies to develop their own corporate web solutions? 3.25rem}}

1. Stereotypes and traditions

If your company has been operating in the market for many years, then probably management or corporate culture did not allow you to seriously consider no/low-code platforms as a basis for creating web projects. In many companies, there is a stereotype that such decisions are not “serious” enough for a large business. They are associated with simple sites for small businesses or startups, not with large-scale corporate projects. 1.5rem}}

2. Distrust of security

If your company has been operating in the market for many years, then probably management or corporate culture did not allow you to seriously consider no/low-code platforms as a basis for creating web projects. In many companies, there is a stereotype that such decisions are not “serious” enough for a large business. They are associated with simple sites for small businesses or startups, not with large-scale corporate projects. 1.5rem}}

3. Dependence on serviceability and third-party service tariffs

No-code platforms operate on a subscription model that involves a monthly payment. For many companies, this seems more expensive than traditional hosting providers. In addition, reliance on a third-party service means that in the event of technical problems on the platform, your site may also become inaccessible. 1.5rem}}

4. Limitations of the server part

No-code platforms often have limited access to the server part of the project. This means that you are not free to change the architecture of the site, add specific features or integrations that go beyond the capabilities of the platform. 1.5rem}}

5. Limitations for large-scale projects

No-code solutions are good for small or medium-sized projects, but for large corporate sites they may not be flexible enough. For example:

• Lack of ability to create complex content management systems (CMS). {{ 1.5rem}} {{list-gap}}
• Limitations in functionality, adaptability and customization.

6. SEO-restrictions of no-code platforms

No-code platforms often have limited opportunities for deep SEO optimization. For example, SEO specialists may face difficulties in setting up such important elements as:

• metadata (title, description, alt-tags for images);
• URL structure (creation of “clean” and understandable page addresses);
• setting canonical URLs to avoid duplication of content;
• creating an XML sitemap or configuring robots.txt.

These limitations can complicate the work of SEO specialists, especially if the project requires a high level of optimization for competitive niches. As a result, the site may lose positions in search engines, which negatively affects the visibility of the brand on the network. 1.5rem}}

7. Site loading speed

Site load speed is one of the key ranking factors in Google, as well as an important element of user experience (UX). No-code platforms, despite their convenience, often generate “heavy” code that can slow down the site. For example:

• unnecessary scripts and styles that are added automatically;
• insufficient image optimization;
• limited opportunities for using modern technologies such as lazy loading or caching.

This can lead to a long loading time of pages, which negatively affects behavioral factors (high bounce rate) and, as a result, SEO. For businesses, this means losing potential customers who may leave the site due to slow operation. 1.5rem}}

8. Inability to implement complex animations and unique layouts

Customers often fear that no-code platforms are not able to implement complex animations such as interactive effects, parallax, micro-interactions or animated transitions between pages, because they believe that only manual coding can guarantee smoothness and detail.

There is also a stereotype that no-code solutions limit the creation of unique leases, forcing them to work within standard templates, which does not meet current trends or brand requirements. These concerns are especially relevant for clients who seek to create image, festival or competition attraction sites, where complete freedom is required to implement creative ideas and non-standard solutions. 1.5rem}}

9. Difficulties of project migration

If a company decides to switch from a no-code platform to a different solution, it can become a serious problem. Project migration is often accompanied by interruptions in the work of the site, loss of positions in search engines and other technical difficulties.

There is also a stereotype that no-code solutions limit the creation of unique leases, forcing them to work within standard templates, which does not meet current trends or brand requirements. These concerns are especially relevant for clients who seek to create image, festival or competition attraction sites, where complete freedom is required to implement creative ideas and non-standard solutions. 3.25rem}}

Most of these objections were indeed valid in the recent past, and some share hold true for many of the no code website builders that exist now {{huge}} {{1.5rem}}

But all no/low code services are different (actually like any other technology). They have their own characteristics, positioning, pricing, complexity of development, etc. By the way, in this articleWe “Consider the TOP-5 most popular no/low code platforms for creating web projects”. {{large}} {{1rem}}

Of course, we seek to comment on each of the 9 objections outlined above. And our answers will be based on Webflow capabilities, because we are certified experts of this service and its premium partners. We consciously chose Webflow as the main tool for work, and for more than one year we have successfully used it to implement projects of various complexity and confidently recommend Webflow to our clients as a reliable, flexible and powerful solution for creating web projects. 1.25rem}}

1. Stereotypes and traditions

Low-code is not just a trend, but a huge industry that has changed the rules of the game

It is difficult to argue against biased views. However, let's remember the time when skeptics assured that the smartphone is a dead technological branch, because a mobile is needed to make calls. And for everything else, the computer is much more convenient. Sure, skeptics have remained skeptics, but now they're armed with iPhones. Or the attitude of “conservatives by vocation” to the prospects of decentralized trade, bitcoin and web3 technologies. Today 1 BTC is worth > $100 000

The world is moving forward relentlessly. What yesterday was insignificant, unreliable or petty - by the presence of global demand turns into giants of the technological world. This is a fact that we must accept. The leader always looks forward. {{ 3.25rem}}

2. Distrust of security

High level of Webflow security

Webflow provides a high level of security that meets modern industry standards. Here are some key aspects to help allay security concerns:

• SSL Certificates. Each site created on Webflow automatically receives an SSL certificate that ensures data encryption between the user and the server. This is critical to protecting confidential information, especially in industries where data security is a priority.
• Hosting on Amazon Web Services (AWS). Webflow uses cloud hosting based on AWS and Fastly — leading providers that provide reliability, scalability and data protection. These platforms are used by the largest companies in the world, including financial and medical organizations.
• Regular updates and protection against attacks. Webflow is constantly updating its infrastructure to protect against new threats such as DDoS attacks. This means that your site always runs on the most modern and secure platform.
• Compliance with safety standards.Webflow complies with international security standards such as GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation), which guarantees confidentiality and protection of personal data.
• Access control. Webflow allows you to configure access levels to the project, which provides additional protection against unauthorized interference. 1.5rem}} {{list-gap}}

Conclusion

Through the use of advanced technologies and partnerships with leading hosting providers, Webflow provides a level of security that often exceeds the capabilities of traditional servers. This makes the platform a reliable choice even for companies operating in industries with high data privacy requirements. 3.25rem}}

3. Dependence on serviceability and third-party service tariffs

Reliability, time saving and minimizing risks for overpayments of several tens of dollars

Projects developed on Webflow must have Webflow hosting if the company wants to use the infrastructure and capabilities of the service (otherwise, you can simply upload an archive of the project developed on Webflow. And place it on any convenient hosting). Indeed, Webflow hosting is somewhat more expensive than the vast majority of regional hosting providers. But we are talking about an overpayment of 150-200 dollars a year. In return, you get:

• Reliability and stability of work.Webflow uses cloud-based hosting Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Fastly, which provide 99.99% uptime.This means that your site will be accessible almost always, even during peak loads. Compared to traditional hosting providers that may require additional setup and maintenance, Webflow offers a ready-made solution that works “out of the box”.
• Saving time and resources.Although the subscription model may seem more expensive at first glance, it allows you to save time and money that is usually spent on individual services, technical support, and server administration. This model includes not only hosting, but also:
  • automatic updates;
  • protection against attacks;
  • SSL certificates;
  • tools for design and development
• Minimization of technical risks. Webflow takes care of all technical aspects, including server upgrades, security, and scalability. This reduces the risks associated with human errors or technical failures that often occur when using traditional hosting.
• Flexibility and scalability.Webflow makes it easy to scale your project in case of business growth. You don't have to worry about updating servers or increasing resources — the platform automatically adapts to your needs.
• Availability of backup. Webflow automatically creates backups of your site, which allows you to quickly restore the project in case of any problems. This provides an extra level of protection and peace of mind.
• Support and warranties.Webflow provides professional technical support that promptly resolves any issues. In case of problems, you are not left alone, as is often the case with traditional hosting providers. 1.5rem}} {{list-gap}}

Conclusion

Dependence on a third-party service such as Webflow is actually an advantage, since the platform takes over all the technical aspects, providing stability, security and scalability. This allows companies to focus on business development rather than solving technical problems. 3.25rem}}

4. Limitations of the server part

Webflow offers enough flexibility for most projects

Although Webflow does not provide direct access to the server part, it offers a wide set of tools that allow you to implement most functional requirements. For example:

• Dynamic content through CMS(content management system), which allows you to create complex data structures without the need for programming.
• Design customizationat a level that often exceeds the capabilities of traditional platforms.
• Direct integrations via Webflow Apps.Most modern global services already have an application for Webflow, which allows you to create integration “out of the box” without leaving the Webflow Designer interface. For example: Clarity, HubSpot, Figma, Adobe, etc
• Integrations through APIs and third-party services.Webflow supports integrations with many third-party services via API. This allows you to add specific features that go beyond the basic capabilities of the platform. For example:
  • REST API architecture and detailed Webflow documentation
  • Integration with Zapier to automate business processes.
  • Use Make (Integromat) for complex integration scenarios.
  • Connect third-party databases or services via Webhooks.
  • Integration with analytics tools, CRMs, payment gateways, etc.
• Export code for additional customization.Webflow allows you to export HTML, CSS and JavaScript code of your project. This means that if you need specific server logic, you can move the project to another hosting and refine it to suit your needs.
• Scalability through third-party services.For complex functions such as processing large amounts of data or specific server logic, you can use third-party services such as AWS Lambda, Firebase or Heroku, which integrate easily with Webflow.
• Focus on the front end and business goals.Webflow allows you to focus on creating a quality front end and solving business problems, leaving the server part to trusted cloud providers. In many cases, this greatly simplifies the development process and reduces costs. {{list-gap}} {{1.5rem}}

Conclusion

Although Webflow does not provide direct access to the server part, its features of integration, code export and use of third-party services allow you to implement even complex projects. For most businesses, this is the optimal solution that combines flexibility, simplicity and efficiency. 3.25rem}}

5. Limitations for large-scale projects

Webflow as a powerful solution for large-scale projects

Advanced CMS for complex content management systems. Webflow offers a flexible and powerful CMS that allows you to create complex data structures and manage large volumes of content. You can:

• Configure dynamic collections for different types of content (news, products, articles, etc.).
• Use reference and multi-reference fields to create relationships between data collections, allowing you to build complex hierarchies.
• Easily update content through a user-friendly interface or integration with API.

Scalability and adaptability. Webflow is great for large-scale projects thanks to:

• Cloud hosting based on AWS and Fastly, which provides stability and speed even under high loads.
• Ability to create adaptive design for any device without limitation in customization.
• Integrations with automation tools such as Zapier or Make for data transfer and processing.

Flexibility of customization. Webflow allows you to create unique solutions thanks to:

• Full control over HTML and CSS.
• A powerful tool for creating animations.
• Ability to import/write html/css/javascript code directly in the project
• Integrations with REST API to add specific functions.
• Possibility to export the project by archive for further customization, if necessary.

Support large teams and processes.Webflow supports the work of teams through functions Team Members, Guest Editors and Edit/Build Modethat allows several users to work on a project at the same time. This is ideal for large companies where designers, content managers and developers work on the site. Moreover, the Enterprise tariff allows multiple developers to work on a project at the same time using Webflow Branches technology.

Examples of large-scale projects on Webflow.Many big brands and companies use Webflow for their corporate websites. Among them: Dell Technologies, Upwork, Dropbox, Zendesk, Bonsai, ShipNetwork.This proves that the platform is able to meet the needs of even the most demanding customers. 1.5rem}}

Conclusion

With its flexibility, powerful CMS, integrations and scalability, Webflow is great for large corporate sites and complex projects. It is a modern solution that allows business to grow without restrictions. {{ 3.25rem}}

6. SEO-restrictions of no-code platforms

SEO Optimization without Limits

Webflow offers powerful SEO tools that allow you to solve most optimization tasks without restrictions. Provides full control over metadata (title, description), the ability to configure alt text for images, create an XML sitemap, edit robots.txt, add schema.org micromarkup, breadcrumbs, and configure 301 redirects.

In addition, Webflow generates clean and semantically correct code, which has a positive effect on the speed of loading the site (about this in the next paragraph) and its indexing by search engines. The platform also supports integration with Google Analytics, Google Tag Manager and other SEO tools, which allows you to track the performance of the site. About “SEO and Webflow friendliness” you can read in our separate article (link) {{3.25rem}}

7. Site loading speed

How Webflow ensures fast loading of sites

Webflow actively solves the problems associated with the speed of loading sites, thanks to the introduction of advanced technologies and optimization:

• Clean optimized code.Webflow generates clean and semantically correct code, avoiding unnecessary scripts and styles. Users have full control over which elements are added to the page, which avoids code overload. In addition, Webflow automatically minimizes CSS, JavaScript, and HTML, which reduces file size and speeds up downloads.
• Effective image optimization system. Webflow automatically optimizes images by compressing them without loss of quality. The platform also supports modern image formats such as WebP and avif, which greatly reduce file size. In addition, Webflow implements the function of automatically generating images of different sizes (support for srcset attributes) for adaptive design, which allows you to download optimal versions of images depending on the user's device.
• Access to modern technologies (lazy loading, caching).Webflow supports lazy loading for images and videos, allowing you to upload content only when it becomes visible to the user. This greatly reduces the initial page load time. In addition, Webflow uses AWS-based cloud hosting and Fastly CDN, which provides content caching on global servers, reducing load times for users in different regions.
• Overall performance.Webflow regularly updates its infrastructure to meet current performance standards. Thanks to the integration with CDN and the use of fast servers, sites on Webflow show a high loading speed, which is confirmed by the results of tests in Google PageSpeed Insights.
• From our own experience, we can note that on an average Webflow project, you need to be able to get a performance rate at 90/97 (mob/desktop) in Google PageSpeed Insights, but it is quite realistic. We have more than one such case {{list-gap}} {{1.5rem}}

Conclusion

Webflow not only solves the traditional no-code platform problems with loading speed, but also offers tools that allow you to create fast, optimized sites. This provides a positive user experience, reduces bounce rate and improves SEO, making the platform an ideal choice for business. 3.25rem}}

8. Inability to implement complex animations and unique layouts

Webflow as a tool for freedom of creative thought

Webflow is not only able to provide the ability to implement complex animations and unique layouts, but also offers tools that make this process convenient, fast and accessible even for designers without deep programming knowledge. 1.25rem}}

1. Webflow has acquired GreenSock (GSAP)

Webflow has integrated a powerful tool for creating animations — GSAP (GreenSock Animation Platform), which is the industry standard for complex animations. This allows you to create smooth, detailed microinteractions, parallax effects, animated transitions between pages, and other interactive elements without the need for manual coding. Thanks to GSAP, Webflow provides a level of animation previously available only to developers with JavaScript experience. 1.25rem}}

2. Webflow has a separate category on Awwwards

Webflow is so powerful in creating unique designs that it has separate category on Awwwards— one of the most prestigious platforms for evaluating web design. This confirms that Webflow is a recognized tool for creating innovative and creative websites that meet the highest standards of modern web design. 1.25rem}}

3. Websites on Webflow regularly win web development contests

A huge number of websites created on Webflow become winners in the field of web design, receiving awards on platforms such as Awwwards, CSS Design Awards and others. This proves that Webflow allows you to create not only functional, but also visually unique and creative sites that meet the highest customer requirements. 1.25rem}}

4. Complete freedom in creating unique layouts

Webflow does not limit users to standard templates. The platform offers flexible visual editor, which allows you to create any layouts from scratch. Designers have full control over every element of the page, which allows you to realize even the most complex ideas. 1.25rem}}

5. Tools for creative ideas

Webflow supports integration with custom codes, which allows you to expand the functionality of the platform. This means that even the most complex ideas that go beyond the standard possibilities can be implemented. 1.25rem}}

6. Smoothness and detail of animations

With built-in animation tools and integration with GSAP, Webflow provides smoothness and detail that is not inferior to manual coding. Animations are created visually, allowing designers to experiment and achieve the desired result without a complicated technical process. 1.25rem}}

7. Image and festival sites

Webflow is ideal for creating image, festival or competition attraction sites. Thanks to its capabilities, the platform allows you to implement non-standard solutions that attract the attention of users and create a unique experience. 1.5rem}}

Conclusion

Webflow not only eliminates the limitations associated with animations and unique layouts, but also offers the tools that make it one of the best solutions for creating creative websites. With integration with GSAP, recognition at Awwwards, and multiple wins in web design competitions, Webflow proves that no-code platforms can provide complete freedom for creative ideas. 3.25rem}}

9. Difficulties of project migration

Migrating without risks: Webflow and reverse proxy technology

Migrating a project from one platform to another is always a challenge, but Webflow offers solutions that minimize risks and ensure a smooth transition. This is why concerns about the difficulties of migration are exaggerated:

• Export code.Webflow allows you to export pure HTML, CSS and JavaScript code, which makes it possible to transfer the project to another platform without losing functionality. This is especially useful for companies that want to maintain the design and structure of the site.
• SEO-security during migration.Webflow provides tools to configure 301 redirects, which allows you to save the position of the site in search engines during the transition. In addition, the platform automatically generates an XML sitemap, which simplifies the indexing of new pages.
• Support integrations.Webflow supports integration with other platforms via API, which allows you to gradually transfer functionality and content without the need for a complete transition at once.
• Flexibility in development. Webflow allows you to create new pages gradually, testing them before launching. This reduces the risk of technical problems and ensures the stability of the site {{1.5rem}} {{list-gap}}

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Conclusion

Webflow not only simplifies the migration process with its tools, but also allows you to implement a gradual transition through a reverse proxy. This ensures the stability of the site, the preservation of SEO positions and minimization of risks to the business.

So, we've gone through all nine major business objections to implementing no/low code in the web dev industry. At the same time, we did not discuss the key benefits of this approach. We can formulate them in just two words. Literally two words that will be a knockout for classic development: time and cost. Very important words, aren't they? And their numerical embodiment may differ several times in favor of the no/low code approach.

So, no/low code is a modern approach to website creation, which, with the right choice of a particular tool, can surpass traditional development in terms of speed, convenience and efficiency.

Webflow is one of the best no-code ecosystems in web development, eliminating typical limitations by providing download speed, SEO optimization, complex animations and unique layouts, security standards, a content management system, and scalability capabilities. With its integration with advanced technologies, recognition in international competitions and the possibility of gradual migration, Webflow is a reliable choice for businesses looking for a modern, productive or creative website. By entrusting your project to Webflow, you will receive a solution that meets the highest standards of design and technical implementation.

If you would like to take a closer look at the Lindgren Studio cases that have been implemented on Webflow - go to the Cases page{{bg-grey}}