How Low‑Code, Bimodal IT, and Cloud Platforms Can Shape Your 2015 Mobile Strategy

Introduction

In 2015, defining a mobile‑strategy framework is critical for enterprise success. The article outlines essential points to consider when crafting an annual strategy, focusing on visual development environments, bimodal IT, cloud‑based mobile development, and the HTML5 versus native development debate.

Leveraging Visual Development Environments

Many enterprises struggle to hire enough mobile developers, leading to growing backlogs. Low‑code platforms enable both developers and business users to create mobile apps without writing code. Gartner predicts that by 2018 more than 50% of mobile apps will be built by business analysts, freeing IT staff for higher‑value work.

Embracing Bimodal IT

Bimodal IT combines a traditional, long‑cycle, enterprise‑grade development mode with a fast, low‑code, experimental mode. This dual approach lets non‑programmers innovate quickly on visual platforms while seasoned developers focus on a few strategic, high‑impact applications using conventional tools.

Avoiding BYOT (Bring Your Own Technology) Pitfalls

Uncontrolled adoption of personal tools by business units can create governance risks, such as data‑security threats, and lead to fragmented solutions. Enterprises should enforce a centralized, IT‑governed platform that provides consistent tools and oversight.

Cloud‑Based Development Approach

Adopting cloud‑based mobile development offers flexibility, agility, and reduced operational costs compared with desktop‑bound tools. Cloud models enable real‑time collaboration, standardized environments, and shorter learning curves. Gartner forecasts that HTML5 or hybrid apps will account for over 90% of enterprise mobile apps in 2015, with cloud tools accelerating development.

Platform Recommendations

Provide a fast, visual development environment alongside a full‑code IDE to support both business users and developers.

Offer a browser‑based IDE so users can develop anywhere without installing tools.

Include integrated mobile backend‑as‑a‑service (MBaaS) for user management, push notifications, server logic, data handling, and enterprise data integration.

Support integration with existing CI pipelines and workflow systems.

HTML5 vs. Native Development

While native apps historically delivered superior performance and polish, the gap is narrowing as browsers become faster and frameworks like jQuery Mobile, Angular, and Ionic improve HTML5 app quality. Native development remains more expensive, especially under BYOD policies where device diversity is high.

Avoiding the Consumer‑App Trap

Enterprises should not chase consumer‑grade experiences for internal tools; most business apps serve only hundreds or thousands of users, not millions. Over‑investing in UI polish can divert resources from delivering functional, timely solutions.

Planning for a Successful 2015

By incorporating bimodal IT, visual development, cloud‑based platforms, and an HTML5‑first approach, organizations can free IT resources, accelerate delivery, and stay within budget, positioning themselves for continued success beyond 2015.