Code vs. No-Code: Which HMI/SCADA Platform Is Right for You?

Your production line just stalled. You need to diagnose and reset a tank pressure alarm, but your only SCADA developer is out of the office. Now what?

This scenario is all too common for today's manufacturers. With 70% of manufacturers facing skilled labor shortages (Deloitte, 2024), selecting the right HMI/SCADA platform can significantly impact operational efficiency. As platforms evolve, teams are debating whether to stick with traditional code-based systems, adopt no-code or low-code options, or explore hybrid solutions.

Which is right for your facility? Let's break it down.

What Is a Code-Based HMI/SCADA Platform?

Code-based platforms rely on programming knowledge—typically in languages like ladder logic, structured text, or scripting environments—to build and customize dashboards, alarms, data logs, and controls. They offer powerful flexibility but require skilled developers and longer deployment times.

Examples:

• Ignition by Inductive Automation
• FactoryTalk View SE
• Wonderware (AVEVA System Platform)

What Is a No-Code/Low-Code SCADA Platform?

No-code platforms prioritize speed and accessibility. They use visual drag-and-drop interfaces, pre-built logic blocks, and templated dashboards. Engineers or technicians with limited coding experience can deploy functional HMIs faster and with fewer dependencies.

Examples:

• HighByte Intelligence Hub
• Tatsoft FrameworX Express
• IX Developer by Beijer

What Are Hybrid HMI/SCADA Platforms?

Hybrid platforms combine the flexibility of code-based systems with the ease of use of no-code or low-code interfaces. Non-developers can build core functionalities using visual tools, while advanced users can write custom scripts for complex needs. These platforms are ideal for teams seeking scalability without sacrificing simplicity.

Examples:

• AVEVA Edge
• Siemens WinCC Unified
• Ignition with Perspective Module

Benefits:

• Balances ease of use with customization
• Supports phased transitions (e.g., start with no-code, add scripts later)
• Reduces training time for mixed-skill teams

Considerations:

• Higher upfront cost than pure no-code platforms
• Requires clear documentation to avoid configuration conflicts

Pros and Cons of Code-Based Platforms

Why Choose Code-Based?

• Complete customization: Tailor every aspect of the system to your needs.
• Greater control: Fine-tune security and scripting logic.
• Ideal for complexity: Perfect for unique or intricate processes.

Challenges:

• Steeper learning curve
• Longer implementation time (2–6 months)
• High reliance on internal or third-party developers

Pros and Cons of No-Code/Low-Code Platforms

Why Go No-Code?

• Fast deployment: Go live in 1–4 weeks.
• Easy updates: Modify dashboards without coding expertise.
• Accessible: Empower teams with limited SCADA experience.

Challenges:

• Limited advanced customization
• Extra charges for "pro" developer features
• Abstraction risks if not configured carefully

Real-World Applications

• Code-Based Example: A pharmaceutical plant utilized Ignition to integrate a complex batch processing system with ERP and MES, achieving precise control over more than 200 parameters. Trade-off: 6 months of development and two full-time developers.
• No-Code Example: A mid-sized food processing facility deployed HighByte Intelligence Hub to monitor refrigeration units across 10 sites in two weeks, empowering non-technical staff to manage dashboards.
• Hybrid Example: An automotive OEM utilized Siemens WinCC Unified to create standardized dashboards for 80% of their HMI requirements using no-code tools, complemented by custom Python scripts for proprietary robotic controls.

Budgeting for Your HMI/SCADA Platform

• Code-Based Costs: Higher upfront costs ($50,000–$200,000 for licensing, training, and setup). Ongoing costs include developer salaries or third-party support.
• No-Code/Low-Code Costs: Lower initial costs ($10,000–$50,000 for licensing and setup), but watch for subscription fees or add-ons for cloud integration.
• Hybrid Costs: Moderate range ($20,000–$100,000) depending on customization needs.
• Hidden Costs: Factor in training, maintenance, and scalability. No-code platforms may save upfront costs but limit customization options, while code-based systems often require ongoing developer support.
• Tip: Request quotes from 3 vendors and ask for a 3–5-year total cost of ownership (TCO) breakdown.

5 Questions to Help You Choose

• How complex is your application?
  If you're visualizing tank levels and alarms, no-code may suffice. For batch sequencing or MES integration, code-based is better.
  Action: List your top 5 operational requirements (e.g., real-time analytics, multi-protocol support). If more than 3 require custom logic, lean toward code-based platforms.
• Who will maintain it?
  No-code reduces dependency on a single developer and supports broader team ownership.
  Action: Map your team's skill levels (e.g., PLC programming, IT, or basic technician). If fewer than two team members have coding expertise, prioritize no-code solutions.
• How quickly do you need it to run?
  No-code platforms often go live in weeks, not months.
  Action: Estimate your deployment timeline. If under 4 weeks, test no-code platforms with trial versions to confirm fit.
• What's your long-term plan?
  Ensure your platform supports API access, exports, and flexible licensing.
  Action: Check vendor roadmaps for API updates or cloud integration to ensure future-proofing.
• What's your team's technical comfort level?
  Choose what your people can realistically use and support.
  Action: Conduct a 1-hour training session with a demo platform to gauge usability.

Comparison: Code-Based vs. No-Code vs. Hybrid

Quick comparison of HMI/SCADA platform types to guide your decision.

Common Questions Answered

• Can no-code platforms handle industrial-grade security?
  Most modern no-code platforms offer robust security features, such as role-based access and encryption, and verify compliance with standards like IEC 62443.
• Are code-based platforms becoming obsolete?
  No, they remain essential for high-complexity applications, but hybrid platforms are bridging the gap for many use cases.
• What about cloud vs. on-premise?
  No-code platforms often lean toward the cloud for scalability, while code-based systems are standard for on-premise deployments. Check vendor options for hybrid cloud models.

Our Take: Use Both Strategically

For OEMs, integrators, and lean maintenance teams, the smart move isn't always one or the other. It's understanding when each is best.

• Use no-code for standard dashboards, mobile HMIs, and remote visualizations.
• Use code-based for custom logic, integration layers, and high-complexity control.
• Utilize a hybrid approach for scalable systems that strike a balance between ease and flexibility.

Final Tip: Build a Resilient System

Ask yourself: If my top SCADA developer were to leave tomorrow, could my team still maintain the system?

To reduce risk:

• Choose platforms with strong vendor support (e.g., 24/7 help desks or active user communities).
• Invest in cross-training for 2–3 team members, even for no-code systems.
• Document all configurations and workflows for knowledge transfer.

Download the Full HMI/SCADA Selection Checklist

Still deciding? Download our free 2025 HMI/SCADA Selection Checklist to compare platforms across 35+ criteria.

→ Download the Checklist (PDF)

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Key Takeaways

• Code-based platforms offer unmatched customization but require skilled developers.
• No-code and low-code platforms prioritize speed and accessibility for lean teams.
• Hybrid platforms strike a balance between both, making them ideal for scalable, mixed-skill environments.
• Evaluate complexity, staffing, costs, and long-term needs before choosing.