🚨 Production Line Stopped? Choose the Right HMI/SCADA Platform to Avoi
A tank pressure alarm goes off. Your only SCADA developer is out. Now what?
With 70% of manufacturers facing skilled labor shortages (Deloitte, 2024), your HMI/SCADA platform should empower your team—not leave you dependent on a single developer.
This guide compares three key options: code-based, no-code/low-code, and hybrid platforms. Let’s break them down and help you choose the right fit for your operations.
⚙️ What Are the Different Types of HMI/SCADA Platforms?
🧠 Code-Based Platforms
These systems require programming skills to build logic and dashboards. Ideal for complex, custom processes.
- Best for: Custom workflows, ERP/MES integration
- Tools: Ignition, FactoryTalk View SE, AVEVA System Platform
- Pros: Total control, custom security, integration capabilities
- Cons: Long deployment times, requires developers, higher maintenance costs
🧩 No-Code/Low-Code Platforms
Drag-and-drop tools and templates let teams build systems quickly without deep coding skills.
- Best for: Rapid deployment, simple dashboards
- Tools: HighByte, Tatsoft FrameworX, IX Developer
- Pros: Fast setup, low skill barrier, lower cost
- Cons: Limited customization, feature limitations, abstraction risks
🔀 Hybrid Platforms
Combines visual tools with optional scripting. Great for scalability and team flexibility.
- Best for: Mixed-skill teams, long-term growth
- Tools: AVEVA Edge, Siemens WinCC Unified, Ignition with Perspective
- Pros: Best of both worlds, phased rollouts, adaptable
- Cons: Medium cost, needs documentation, initial training required
💵 HMI/SCADA Cost Comparison
| Platform Type | Initial Cost | Deployment Time | Skill Level Needed | Ongoing Costs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Code-Based | $50K–$200K+ | 2–6 months | Developers | Dev salaries or third-party support |
| No-Code/Low-Code | $10K–$50K+ | 1–4 weeks | Beginner–Intermediate | Subscription or feature add-ons |
| Hybrid | $20K–$100K | 1–8 weeks | Mixed | Moderate support/training |
🏭 Real-World Use Cases
✅ Code-Based in Action – Pharma Plant
Used Ignition to control 200+ batch parameters and integrate ERP/MES.
Time: 6 months | Team: 2 developers
✅ No-Code in Action – Food Processor
Used HighByte to monitor refrigeration across 10 sites. Deployed in 2 weeks by non-technical staff.
✅ Hybrid in Action – Automotive OEM
Siemens WinCC Unified built 80% of dashboards using no-code tools and added Python for robotics.
✅ Quick 5-Question Decision Guide
| Question | If YES... | If NO... |
|---|---|---|
| Is your process complex? | Code or Hybrid | No-Code |
| Lacking in-house developers? | No-Code or Hybrid | Code may be okay |
| Need deployment under 1 month? | No-Code | Code or Hybrid with planning |
| Need MES/ERP/API integration? | Code or Hybrid | Basic platforms may suffice |
| Is scalability a priority? | Hybrid | No-Code could work |
🔐 Common Questions
Can no-code platforms handle industrial security?
Yes—most offer encryption, role-based access, and IEC 62443 compliance. Always confirm during evaluation.
Are code-based platforms becoming outdated?
No. They're essential for high-complexity setups. Hybrid platforms are just making development more accessible.
Cloud vs. On-Premise?
- No-Code: Often cloud-first
- Code-Based: Typically on-prem
- Hybrid: Often supports both
💡 Final Take: Combine Tools Strategically
- Use No-Code: Dashboards, mobile HMIs, remote monitoring