4 no-code tools every non-technical founder needs to know
by CJ Daniel-Nield ✦ 13 August 2024 ✦ 4 Min Read
You’ve got a brilliant idea that could change the world—or at least make someone’s life a whole lot easier. But here’s the catch: you don’t have a tech background.
In the past, startups used to need a technical co-founder or a tech team to be able to build their MVP.
Now with the rise of no-code tools, not every new idea needs a digital product agency like us, to bring it life. Yes, sometimes we actually advise early-stage founders to not work with us (imagine that!). With a good idea and a no-code product, you can go all the way from pre-seed funding to Series A.
So, what are no-code tools, and when should you use them? And how do you pick the right one?
Why go no-code?
No-code tools let you build and launch your ideas without writing any code. You get to focus on what your product looks like and how it works, rather than worry about all the technical details.
When to choose no-code:
When you’re just starting out
If a picture is a thousand words, a prototype is a million. No-code tools are perfect for the early stages of your project when you want to test out your idea. They let you quickly build a prototype or MVP so you can see if your concept has legs before investing too much time or money.
If you’re on a tight budget
Development can be pricey. If you’re bootstrapping or yet to secure funding, no-code platforms offer a budget-friendly alternative to building an app or website.
For speedy launches
Got a great idea and want to start testing it ASAP? No-code tools can help you get your project up and running quickly. The faster you launch, the sooner you can start getting feedback and making improvements.
When your idea is pretty straightforward
If your project doesn’t need a bunch of complex features or integrations, no-code tools can handle it with ease. They’re ideal for simple apps, websites, and workflows.
Top no-code tools to explore:
Bubble
Bubble is your go-to for building web apps with a visual interface. You can create everything from social networks to marketplaces, all without coding. Plus, Bubble lets you design, prototype, and even launch your app from one place.
Why choose it?
If you know you’re going to want to integrate with lots of third parties, or want that option down the line, Bubble is for you.
FlutterFlow
Want to create a mobile app but don’t know where to start? FlutterFlow lets you build and launch apps with drag-and-drop features and pre-built components.
Why choose it?
If you do want to scale later down the line, FlutterFlow is fully extendible with custom code.
Bravo
Bravo transforms your Figma designs into fully functional mobile apps. Simply connect your design files, add interactions, and publish to the app stores.
Why choose it?
If you know the ropes of Figma or have a designer on board, Bravo is the best pick for you.
Mockplus
With a rich library of UI components and pre-designed templates, Mockplus makes it easy for you to quickly create interactive prototypes without coding.
Why choose it?
If you’re at the start of your journey and want to start testing your idea, MockPlus is a great way to quickly spin up a prototype.
For non-technical founders, no-code tools offer a quick and easy way to develop, test, and launch new ideas.
If you’re in the early-stages of an idea, and don’t have a technical co-founder we recommend experimenting with a no-code platform.
And hey, you can always bring an agency on-board later down the line when you’re ready to think about scaling.
There are so many more no-code options out there. If you want a hand picking the best one for you, drop me an email at CJ@planes.agency.
