Traditionally, in such cases companies turn to their automation department, but developers are usually busy with larger-scale projects. The wait can be lengthy, and the result does not always meet expectations. Even if the solution is implemented, making changes will require a new technical specification and time for adjustments.
Another option is to look for ready-made solutions on the market. However, such products as document constructors or contract management systems are often expensive. Moreover, they are offered as "out-of-the-box" solutions, and if the functionality does not fully meet your requirements, the vendor is unlikely to customize the product for your specific needs.
Let’s take a closer look at the risks of purchasing ready-made "out-of-the-box" solutions for automation.
High cost
Out-of-the-box solutions, such as document constructors or contract management systems, often come with a high price tag. This is because vendors include not only the product itself but also licenses, updates, and technical support in the cost. For a company, this means significant financial expenses that may not pay off if the solution turns out to be unsuitable.
Consequences:
- Overspending on IT.
- Need to find additional funds for customization or system replacement.
- Limited resources for other important projects.
Lack of flexibility
Off-the-shelf products are offered "as is," and it is difficult to adapt their functionality to the specific needs of a company. If the system lacks a required feature, the vendor is unlikely to develop it specifically for you.
Consequences:
- Misalignment of the system with real business processes.
- Need to use additional tools, complicating workflows.
- Reduced employee efficiency.
Long implementation time
Implementing off-the-shelf solutions requires time for setup, employee training, and integration with existing systems. This process can stretch out for months, especially if technical difficulties arise.
Consequences:
- Work stoppages due to lack of automation.
- Delays in business process implementation.
- Extended return-on-investment timelines.
Vendor dependency
When using off-the-shelf solutions, a company becomes dependent on the vendor for updates, support, and customizations. If the vendor stops supporting the product or raises prices, it can create serious problems.
Consequences:
- Risk of business process interruptions during system failures.
- Need to switch to another product, entailing additional costs.
- Limited ability to manage the system independently.
Limited integration
Off-the-shelf solutions do not always integrate easily with a company's existing IT systems. This may lead to the need for additional customizations or the use of intermediate tools.
Consequences:
- Workflow complexity due to the lack of a unified system.
- Data loss or errors when transferring information between systems.
- Increased costs for integration and maintenance.
In such circumstances, low-code platforms become the optimal solution for automating legal activities.
Advantages of low-code platforms for automating legal activities
Rapid development
Low-code platforms allow applications and processes to be created much faster than traditional development methods. This is achieved through visual programming and pre-built modules.
Advantages:
- Reduction in time to create an MVP (Minimum Viable Product).
- Ability to quickly test ideas and make changes.
- Accelerated deployment of solutions into business processes.
Low cost
Development on low-code platforms is significantly cheaper than purchasing off-the-shelf solutions or custom development from scratch. This is due to minimal resource and time expenditures.
Advantages:
- IT budget savings.
- Ability to allocate saved funds to other projects.
- Automation accessibility even for smaller companies.
Flexibility and adaptability
Low-code platforms make it easy to modify created solutions. This is particularly important for businesses where process requirements can change rapidly.
Advantages:
- Ability to quickly adapt the system to new tasks.
- Reduced dependence on external developers.
- Simplified process of modification and scaling of solutions.
Ease of use
Low-code platforms do not require deep programming knowledge. Applications and processes can be created even by employees without a technical background.
Advantages:
- Reduced workload on the IT department.
- Involvement of business users in the development process.
- Quick employee training on the platform.
Integration with existing systems
Low-code platforms easily integrate with other IT solutions via API. This allows for the creation of a unified automation ecosystem.
Advantages:
- Simplified workflow through consolidation of all processes in one system.
- Minimized data loss and errors during information transfer.
- Reduced integration and maintenance costs.
Security and control
Solutions created on low-code platforms can be deployed on a company's internal servers, ensuring a high level of data security.
Advantages:
- Compliance with personal data laws and other security standards.
- Full control over data and processes.
- Minimization of information leakage risks.
No vendor lock-in
Code created on a low-code platform can be exported and manually edited if necessary. This eliminates dependency on the vendor.
Advantages:
- Ability to migrate solutions to another platform.
- Freedom in choosing tools for further development.
- Reduced risks associated with changes in vendor policies.
Wide range of applications
On low-code platforms, you can create a variety of solutions, from document generators and chatbots to contract management systems and workflow programs.
Advantages:
- Platform versatility for solving various tasks.
- Ability to automate both legal and other business processes.
- Reduced need to purchase multiple specialized solutions.
Thus, low-code platforms offer companies the flexibility, speed, and cost-effectiveness unavailable with off-the-shelf solutions. They help minimize risks associated with high costs, long implementation times, and lack of flexibility while providing powerful tools for automating business processes. This makes low-code an ideal choice for companies looking to remain competitive in a rapidly changing market. Try the low-code platform Botman.one — the cloud version can be tested for free directly on the website.