Everything You Need to Know About Building a No-Code SaaS

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Over the course of 2022, roughly 70% of all corporate software use was SaaS. This number is expected to hit 85% in 2023.

But there's a problem—we're relying on the 0.3% of the world's population who can code to develop these products. And while the number of coders is growing, the need for SaaS platforms is growing faster.

The challenge is daunting, but there's a solution: no-code SaaS.

With no-code tools and platforms, you can design and launch an MVP without any technical coding. So, how do you go from an idea to a functional SaaS MVP without knowing how to code SaaS?

In this article, I'll walk you through the steps you need to take to turn your idea into a no-code SaaS MVP. We'll talk about the tools, processes, and educational resources (like 100DaysOfNoCode!) you should consider as you embark on your journey.

What Is SaaS?

Let's start with the basics—what is SaaS?

Software-as-a-service (SaaS) is a type of cloud-based computing that allows users to access and use software applications over the internet. A third-party provider typically hosts these applications, and they can be accessed from any device with an internet connection.

SaaS is a great way to provide applications and services to users without having to install or maintain their own server. It also makes software upgrades, updates, and maintenance much easier since no physical hardware is required.

No-Code vs. Low-Code

No-code and low-code are two different approaches to building applications, SaaS products, internal tools, and websites.

No-code platforms allow users to create applications without writing any code. They usually feature drag-and-drop tools, prebuilt components, and visual workflows that make it easy for non-technical and technical developers to design and build an app quickly.

Low-code platforms are a bit more advanced. They typically have basic features and workflows that require no coding to implement. For advanced features and workflows, however, you'll need some coding knowledge to customize the application.

Examples of SaaS Products Built With No-Code Tools

Comet

Comet is a marketplace that connects freelance programmers and data scientists with remote work opportunities.

It was founded back in 2017 by Charles Thomas—an entrepreneur with no technical skills whatsoever. He built the original product in Bubble (a popular no-code development platform), using only drag-and-drop tools.

What started out as a small-scale no-code project has become something much bigger. Comet has successfully carved out a niche alongside massive platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer. So far, Comet has helped freelancers deliver 300+ projects for an average MRR of $800,000.

Teal

Teal is a tool that helps streamline the job search process for its 11,000 users and counting.

It's no secret that the job search is a daunting, often overwhelming process. Teal makes it easier by helping to track job listings, customize resumes, and optimize LinkedIn profiles.

The team behind Teal started off with an entirely no-code tool stack that included Bubble, Webflow, Airtable, and Zapier. This allowed them to build quickly, get their product to market, and iterate on feedback from their target market.

Flexiple

Flexiple helps companies hire pre-vetted freelancers—similar to Toptal.

Flexiple founder Karthik Sridharan built the platform with a stack of no-code tools that included Bubble, Webflow, Airtable, Unicorn, and Zapier for under $60 per month. Today, Flexiple is generating over $3 million in revenue every year with 25% month-on-month growth.

How To Build a No-Code SaaS MVP

Step 1: Research (Market + Customer)

Every successful SaaS needs a market. That's why the first step is researching your market and customer

The easiest (and most reliable) way to start this process is by thinking about problems you run into in your work or personal life. What annoys you? What solutions would you like to see that doesn't exist yet?

You should also research the existing solutions and businesses in your target market. This will help you develop a unique solution that stands out from the competition.

Step 2: Choose Your Monetization Model

The next step is to decide how you want to monetize your no-code SaaS product. Most SaaS products use a Good-Better-Best subscription model, where customers pay for different access tiers.

That isn't your only option, though. Depending on the product you're creating, pay-as-you-go (PAYG) or ad-supported may make more sense.

And in case it seems a bit early to be thinking about monetization, trust me—it's not. Knowing how you will make money off your product will help inform its design and development. For example, if you opt for the PAYG model, you may need to build tools for measuring usage.

Step 3: Plan for Security and Reliability in Advance

Once you've got a good idea of what your no-code SaaS product will look like, it's time to think about security and reliability. As no-code solutions tend to be cloud-based, it's important to plan for security early on.

Consider things like user authentication, data encryption, and cybersecurity best practices. It's also a good idea to plan for scalability and reliability—this will help ensure that your no-code SaaS product is resilient and able to handle high traffic volumes.

Step 4: Find No-Code Website Builder Tools

The next step is to find no-code website builder tools that will help you build your no-code SaaS product. Popular no-code platforms include:

Bubble

Webflow

Softr

Bildr

Glide

It's important to research no-code tools before settling on one. Each has unique strengths and weaknesses, so be sure to assess them from the perspective of your no-code SaaS product before making a decision.

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And if you're looking for guidance as you start learning your tool(s) of choice, be sure to check out the resources we have here at 100DaysOfNoCode. Whether you're looking for free courses, fun challenges, or 1-to-1 mentorship, we've got something to help you on your no-code journey.

Step 5: Application Design

Once you've chosen your no-code platform, it's time to start designing the application. This involves focusing on the user experience and ensuring the interface is intuitive and easy to use.

It's important to iterate on the design as you go—try out different features, get user feedback, and refine the design until it's just right.

Step 6. Development and Testing

The next step is to start building your no-code SaaS product. No-code platforms make this process relatively straightforward, providing ready-made building blocks for you to work with.

Once the no-code SaaS product has been built, it's time to test it. Make sure to test as many features as possible and get user feedback. This will help you identify any bugs or areas for improvement.

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When you join 100DaysOfNoCode, you’re joining an active community of no-code builders who are constantly soft-launching projects, offering advice, and providing feedback. It’s the perfect place to gain insights that will transform your SaaS for the better.

Step 7. Production and Maintenance

Once the no-code SaaS product is tested and ready to go, it's time to deploy it. This involves setting up hosting, databases, and other services

It's also important to set up maintenance procedures, such as backups and security scans. This will help ensure that your no-code SaaS product performs optimally for years to come.

And there you have it—following these steps should help you get your no-code SaaS product up and running in no time.

Start Your No-Code Journey With 100DaysOfNoCode

At 100DaysOfNoCode, we've helped hundreds of non-technical founders, career switchers, creators, and hobbyists build their no-code SaaS products. Whether you need help getting started, have an idea that needs refining, or are ready to launch your no-code product, we've got resources to help you on your no-code journey.

From the 100DaysOfNoCode Challenge to our No-Code MVP Bootcamp, we've got no-code makers covered.