Low-Code Platform Comparison
Low-code enables you to rapidly create applications that exactly meet the needs of your company. But which platform is best suited for your organization? To help you find the right solution, we created a low-code platform comparison between 3 major low-code vendors: Mendix, Outsystems, and Thinkwise.
Although all these platforms fall into the category of "Low-code" and have some superficial similarities, the key difference lies in the type of applications you can build with them.
Which low-code platform is right for your organization?
When comparing low-code platforms, two vendors are typically included on a longlist. Mendix is a prominent low-code vendor with a focus on mobile apps and peripheral applications. These apps can be built by both citizen developers and professional developers. In fact, the Mendix platform has a no-code side and a low-code side.
Outsystems, on the other hand, is more focused on the professional developer and its applications are typically more comprehensive. With both platforms, you need to 'draw' each screen or web page separately for the end-user.
In contrast, the Thinkwise platform is specialized in creating large, complex business applications such as a complete ERP system or a Learning Management System. It is primarily inteded for professional software developers. The business can contribute to the process, but does not develop by itself.
The differences between Mendix, Outsystems and Thinkwise
In a comparison between Mendix, Outsystems and Thinkwise, one might describe the difference between the platforms fairly simply: with Mendix and Outsystems you fill in the gaps in your application landscape, with Thinkwise you replace the core to ensure there are no gaps.
| Mendix | Outsystems | Thinkwise | |
| Low-code | |||
| Mobile apps | |||
| Suitable for large, complex applications | |||
| Cloud based | |||
| Requires Java | |||
| Suitable for Citizen Developers | |||
| Drawing individual screens | |||
| Abstract model definitions | |||
| Built-in User Preferences | |||
| Self-learning User Interface | |||
| Run-time Interpretation | |||
| Code generation |
What are the unique features of the Thinkwise Platform?
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Highest productivity amongst low-code platforms
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Replace & prevent legacy software
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Easily modernize enterprise software
Not just faster than regular coding, but the fastest amongst low-code platforms
Even compared to other Low-Code platforms, the Thinkwise Platform distinguishes itself through high development productivity. This is shown by independent research performed by the benchmarking agency QSM. QSM compared eight Thinkwise projects with over twelve thousand validated software projects from its industry database.
This study found, "The number of hours of development required with Thinkwise is up to 80% below the market average. In other words, development with similar platforms would likely be nearly 5 times more expensive."
Gone are the days of technologically obsolete software
Unlike other low-code platforms, Thinkwise applications are technology-independent. The underlying technology, such as User Interfaces, Service Tiers and databases, and the development environment itself are updated periodically by Thinkwise, without affecting previously built applications.
Thinkwise separates technology from functionality. You effectively outsource the technological development aspect. In doing so, you are guaranteed support for emerging technology, allowing you to focus completely on the functional development of your IT landscape.
Modernizing comprehensive systems using the Upcycler
When you are going to replace outdated business software, you may want to reuse its data and structures. The Thinkwise Upcycler enables you to import the existing application and extract metadata such as tables, references, screen structures, translations and notifications.
The platform then uses this metadata to create the foundation for the new solution. You can decide which elements to include or exclude in the new version. This means you don't have to start from scratch and create a jumpstart for the project.
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When do companies choose Thinkwise over other low-code platforms?
The most common reasons are:
- When an organization wants to develop larger and more complex applications, for instance, databases with more than 100 tables. Or when an application is made up of hundreds of screens, making it unfeasible to maintain each screen separately.
- The licensing model is typically more favorable for larger organizations and projects, and more transparent about projected future fees.
- When looking to simplify their IT landscape. The Thinkwise Platform is the only low-code platform that offers a single governing integrated blueprint instead of individual apps.
Which critical questions should I ask when choosing between Thinkwise, Outsystems or Mendix?
We recommend downloading our Checklist: 4 important points of attention for the selection of a low code platform to help you make the right decision for your situation!
What is the Thinkwise Platform less suitable for?
The Thinkwise Platform is not suited for developing B2C apps or web portals that require screens to be pixel-perfect. A few examples are dating apps or the amazon.com website. Mendix is a much more suitable solution for that type of use-case.
Can I still use my current developers with Thinkwise?
Below are a number of characteristics that true Thinkwise experts often possess:
- They are open to learning new, innovative ways of creating software solutions.
- They have a passion for solving complex business / IT challenges.
- They can see "the bigger picture" when delivering software projects.