Mendix has released version 9 of its low-code platform. Improvements include a data catalog, the Data Hub, a workflow editor for automating workflows and an application analysis tool.
Mendix offers a low-code platform in which developers can build all kinds of applications without too much knowledge of code. The low- code specialist offers an ‘all-in-one’ low-code platform, in which everything needed to build applications comes together. Think of an editor, automated workflows, AI and multi-experience.
Mendix Data Hub
The low-code specialist launched version 9 of its platform during his virtual Mendix World event. In this version, a number of important improvements have been implemented that should strengthen the ‘all-in-one’ feeling and further simplify the development of applications.
Tip: Mendix World focusses on All-in-One low code and the Data Hub
An important addition to the Mendix platform is the arrival of the Data Hub. The Data Hub should reduce the complexity of data integrations and make it easier for users to discover, analyze and use data when building their applications. The Data Hub connects to other applications and data sources via connectors. Developers see this data as local data and can use it in their own projects by using a drag & drop interface. Duplication of data from external sources to local sources becomes unnecessary, according to Mendix.
The Data Hub has the Data Hub Catalog at its disposal, with which it can make direct connections to the data available. These applications vary from Mendix applications to those of SAP, Siemens, Teamcenter and Mindsphere. The catalog also provides access to data via the Open Data Protocol. Incidentally, Mendix does charge an additional fee for the Data Hub.
Automated workflows
Another more recent addition to the low code platform is the arrival of a workflow editor that delivers ‘intelligent’ automation for workflows. Developers already have embedded workflow templates within the editor and can customize as desired. End users can access the workflow tasks via the application. In addition, a central task manager manages all workflows.
The editor also integrates all the necessary features for a good workflow, such as AI, a good and clear user interface and data from business sources. In this way, a business application replaces the existing workflow processes or the standalone tools needed for them.
Other new functionality
In version 9 of the Mendix platform it is also possible to build both so-called React Native mobile applications for Android and iOS, as well as so-called Progressive Web Applications (PWA) in one click. The latter are lightweight applications that work with little and the same code on each device. These applications have a single application model and share the same front and backend environment. According to Mendix, the applications are easy to develop without mobile knowledge.
In version 9 of the platform, Mendix also introduces standard functionality for Augmented Reality (AR) applications and the Mendix Assist Performance Bot. The latter solution compares applications developed in Mendix with known best practices. Based on this analysis, the tool gives developers tips on possible adjustments or can automatically refactor the applications.
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