Integrating Low-Code and No-Code Platforms into Complex Enterprise Information Systems: NOVA-LCNC, a Neuro-Symbolic Reference Architecture and Research Agenda
Ikram Souita, Younes Zouani, Abdelmounaim Abdali
Pages 84–111 · Cadi Ayyad University, UCA, Higher School of Technology of Essaouira, LaRTID Laboratory, Marrakech, Morocco
Abstract
This paper provides a structured and critical examination of the literature on existing practices and frameworks for integrating Low-Code and No-Code (LCNC) platforms into complex enterprise information systems (EIS), and highlights architectural, governance and software engineering perspectives. The review is based on 30 key publications structured around three complementary pillars: (i) adoption and usage, (ii) integration and interoperability, (iii) risks, quality, and governance. The central argument is that LCNC platforms should not be understood only as productivity tools, nor merely as alternatives to traditional software development. Rather, they can be viewed as an abstraction and orchestration layer that governs business-side variability while preserving control over core enterprise capabilities. NOVA-LCNC operationalizes this view conceptually by decomposing a business need into capabilities, generating alternative LCNC-EIS allocations, and verifying them against enterprise constraints before human selection. This paper should therefore be understood as a problem-oriented and conceptual contribution. NOVA-LCNC is proposed as a reference architecture and a conceptual decision support architecture compiler, not as an implemented autonomous system. It defines the problem and the mechanisms to be refined through a prototype, expert evaluation, and enterprise case studies.
Keywords: Low-Code, No-Code, Enterprise Information Systems, Integration, Interoperability, Governance, Neuro-Symbolic Architecture