The Death of Monolithic Systems: Why Low Code and No Code is the Future

*Updated 20 March 2025*

The Shift Away from Monolithic Systems 

Traditionally, businesses relied on monolithic systems—large, all-in-one software solutions—to run operations. However, these rigid structures struggle to keep up with the demands of digital transformation. Today, businesses need flexible, easy-to-use technology that adapts quickly. 

As job roles change, technology is no longer limited to IT teams. HR professionals now manage their own leave systems, and marketing teams handle CRM tools independently. This shift requires solutions that are intuitive, scalable, and easy to integrate. 

 

The Problem with Monolithic Systems 

Monolithic systems are single-tiered applications where all components are combined in one platform. While they were useful in the past, they present several challenges today: 

Advantages of Monolithic Systems 

• Familiarity – Many developers are accustomed to working with monolithic architectures. 

• Simple Deployment – Everything is contained in one system, making deployment straightforward. 

• Easier Testing – Since all features are launched together, testing is simpler. 

• IDE-Friendly – Development environments are well-suited for monolithic systems. 

• Shared Codebase – All code is stored in one place, simplifying development. 

 

Disadvantages of Monolithic Systems 

• Slow Updates & Shadow IT – Changes take time, leading employees to use unauthorised external software. 

• Complexity – As businesses grow, monolithic systems become too large and difficult to update. 

• Scalability Issues – Expanding a monolithic system is challenging when different modules require different resources. 

• Reliability Risks – A single bug can disrupt the entire system. 

• Limited Innovation – Updating frameworks or technologies in a monolith is costly and time-consuming. 

Because of these issues, businesses are moving towards more modern approaches like low-code and no-code solutions. 

 

The Rise of Low-Code and No-Code Solutions 

Replacing monolithic systems is a significant challenge, but low-code and no-code platforms offer a practical solution. These tools allow businesses to build and modify applications quickly, without extensive coding knowledge. 

 

What’s the Difference Between No-Code and Low-Code? 

No-Code: 

• Designed for non-technical users. 

• Ideal for simple, department-specific solutions. 

• Example: A social media monitoring tool where employees can easily set up dashboards without IT assistance. 

Low-Code: 

• Requires some technical knowledge but speeds up development. 

• Used for larger business applications that need scalability and integration. 

• Supports advanced technologies like AI, Blockchain, and Robotic Process Automation (RPA). 

• For example, Contesto is a low-code/no-code tool that allows businesses to create digital forms and automate workflows. It even integrates with existing monolithic systems, updating them in real time using AI and RPA. 

 

Microservices - The Future of Business Applications 

Many businesses are adopting microservices, which are small, independent services that work together. Unlike monolithic systems, microservices allow companies to modernise gradually without overhauling everything at once. Low-code platforms can help businesses transition to microservices while keeping parts of their existing systems operational. 

 

Will Monolithic Systems Ever Go Away Completely? 

Monolithic systems are deeply embedded in many organisations, making them difficult to replace entirely. However, businesses don’t need to eliminate them overnight. Instead, they can overlay modern low-code/no-code applications on top of existing systems to improve efficiency and flexibility. 

For example, solutions like the b-connected ecosystem allow businesses to integrate new tools with their older systems, ensuring a smoother transition to modern technology. 

 

The shift away from monolithic systems is inevitable. Businesses need agile, scalable, and user-friendly technology to stay competitive. Low-code, no-code, and microservices offer practical solutions that help organisations modernise without disrupting operations. Instead of clinging to outdated systems, companies should explore new tools that enhance efficiency, innovation, and business growth.