React-native Low-code

4 min readJun 13, 2024

Low-code development platforms have gained popularity for their ability to accelerate app development by providing pre-built components and drag-and-drop interfaces. When it comes to React Native, low-code platforms allow developers to build mobile applications more efficiently by minimizing the need to write extensive code from scratch.

What is Low-Code Development?

Low-code development platforms provide a visual development environment, allowing users to create applications through graphical interfaces and configuration instead of traditional hand-coded programming. These platforms aim to simplify the development process, making it more accessible to non-developers and speeding up the development lifecycle for professional developers.

Benefits of Low-Code Development in React Native

Speed: Rapid application development and deployment.
Accessibility: Non-developers or less experienced developers can create apps.
Cost-Effective: Reduces the cost of development by minimizing the need for extensive coding.
Consistency: Ensures consistent design and functionality through reusable components.
Flexibility: Allows customization when needed, combining low-code elements with custom code.

Popular Low-Code Platforms for React Native

Wave maker is a powerful low-code platform that supports mobile app development with React Native. It offers:

Drag-and-drop UI design.
Integrated back-end services.
Real-time preview and testing on devices.
Extensibility with custom code for advanced features.

Wave maker focuses on no-code and low-code development and provides:

Visual development environment.
Integration with APIs and databases.
Native mobile functionality.
Extensibility with custom JavaScript.

Wave maker specializes in building React Native apps and offers:

Drag-and-drop interface for designing screens.
Ability to export clean React Native code.
Real-time collaboration and previewing on devices.
Integration with third-party services and APIs.

Wave maker supports low-code development for mobile and web apps, offering:

Visual modeling tools.
Integration capabilities.
Deployment options for various environments.
Extensibility with custom React Native components.

Getting Started with Low-Code Development in React Native

Step 1: Choose a Low-Code Platform

Select a platform based on your project requirements, budget, and technical expertise. Each platform has its unique features and strengths, so choose one that aligns with your needs.

Step 2: Set Up the Platform

Follow the platform-specific instructions to set up your development environment. This usually involves creating an account, setting up a workspace, and installing any necessary tools or plugins.

Step 3: Design Your App

Use the drag-and-drop interface to design your app’s user interface. Most platforms offer a variety of pre-built components like buttons, forms, and navigation elements.

Step 4: Configure Data and Integrations

Connect your app to data sources such as databases, APIs, and third-party services. Configure data binding to display dynamic data in your app’s UI.

Step 5: Add Logic and Workflows

Define the app’s behavior by configuring business logic, workflows, and event handling. This might include setting up navigation, form validation, and user interactions.

Step 6: Test and Preview

Use the platform’s preview and testing tools to run your app on different devices and screen sizes. Make sure to test all functionalities and fix any issues.

Step 7: Extend with Custom Code (if needed)

If the platform allows, add custom code to extend the functionality of your app. This can be useful for implementing complex features or integrating with proprietary systems.

Step 8: Deploy Your App

Once the app is ready, use the platform’s deployment tools to publish your app to app stores (Google Play Store and Apple App Store) or other distribution channels.

Example Workflow

Sign Up and Create a Project:

Sign up Wave maker
Create a new project and select a template or start from scratch.

Design the UI:

Use the drag-and-drop editor to add components like buttons, text inputs, and images.
Customize the styles and properties of each component.

Set Up Navigation:

Add navigation elements like tabs or stack navigators.
Define the routes and navigation actions.

Connect Data:

Integrate with APIs or databases to fetch and display data.
Use the data binding feature to link data to UI components.

Add Custom Logic:

Use logic builder to handle user interactions and business logic.
Add actions for button clicks, form submissions, etc.

Preview and Test

Preview the app in simulator or on a real device using their mobile app.
Test all functionalities to ensure the app works as expected.

Export and Deploy:

Export the React Native code if needed for further customization.
Deploy the app directly through Draftbit or export it for manual deployment.

Conclusion

Low-code platforms for React Native are transforming how mobile apps are developed by making the process faster, more accessible, and cost-effective. Whether you’re a seasoned developer looking to speed up your workflow or a business professional aiming to build a functional app without deep coding knowledge, these platforms offer a powerful solution. By leveraging low-code development, you can focus more on innovation and user experience, reducing the time and effort traditionally required in software development.

Wave maker

Rapid application development platform

Low-code Enterprise application development platform

Low code application development platform or Low code development platform

What is Low code app development platforms

Composable low code isvs

Java-based low-code platform

Composable isvs

RAD studio-Rapid application development software platform

APAAS-application platform as a service

Cloud application development platform

Legacy application modernization services