Mendix Makers｜Mendix’s strong ability to develop complex applications for manufacturing customers

MX: Before using the Mendix low-code platform to develop applications, what tools did you and your team primarily use?

Zheng Li: Before adopting Mendix, our team used Microsoft Power Platform and several domestic no-code platforms for application development.

MX: What were the limitations and challenges of the previous tools?

Zheng Li: Before Mendix, our perception of low-code tools was limited to building simple form-based applications that didn’t involve complex data interactions. The earlier platforms lacked integration capabilities with traditional code and offered very few standard components. Customization was nearly impossible, and when unique business needs arose, the tools failed to deliver. Additionally, most of these platforms were cloud-based, which wasn’t acceptable to enterprise clients with strict network security requirements.

After encountering Mendix, we gained a new understanding of what low-code can achieve. As Mendix often emphasizes: “Low code doesn’t mean low logic.” We believe Mendix is the only low-code platform that truly lives up to this motto.

MX: How did you first learn about Mendix?

Zheng Li: Eviden has been one of Mendix’s most important global partners for many years. The introduction to the Mendix China team came through our Global team, facilitating collaboration between the two sides.

MX: How long have you been using Mendix for application development?

Zheng Li: Globally, Eviden has collaborated with Mendix for many years. Our team in China has been working closely with the local Mendix team for about a year.

MX: What applications have you and your team developed using Mendix so far? Are these applications used internally or for other business units?

Zheng Li: We mainly assist clients in creating innovative business applications using Mendix. Over the past year, our key achievements have focused on three types of applications:

• Innovative manufacturing applications, such as agile manufacturing tracking and process optimization.
• Collaborative R&D tools for internal and supplier collaboration.
• Supply chain applications, such as digitizing offline processes and converting spreadsheets into structured databases.

MX: What Mendix components/modules have you used in these applications? What are your impressions?

Zheng Li: When initializing a project, we evaluate requirements and integrate commonly used components/modules. If the existing components don’t meet specific needs, we proactively develop custom components to satisfy business requirements.

MX: Where do you usually seek help when facing challenges during Mendix development?

Zheng Li: Primarily from the Mendix Chinese/English community forums and official Mendix documentation, which resolves over 95% of our issues. For unique problems, we also receive guidance from Mendix experts.

MX: Among the applications you developed with Mendix, which one are you most proud of? Could you elaborate?

Zheng Li: Every successful Mendix application makes us proud. The platform’s fast development speed and lower bug rates compared to traditional coding stand out. For example, a typical 6-month project can be completed within 4 months using Mendix and agile methodologies, keeping client requirements fresh and aligned.

MX: What benefits have these applications brought to users/clients?

Zheng Li: The benefits are reflected in several areas:

• Key feature validation through short POCs before project implementation, reducing risks.
• Shorter development cycles with low bug rates, meeting client needs quickly and allowing swift iterations to adapt to business changes.
• An open platform that integrates with various tools (e.g., SAP, TC), supporting diverse platforms and business scenarios.

Clients often highlight Mendix’s speed and the ability to present functional prototypes within one or two weeks, creating a positive impression of rapid delivery.

MX: Compared to traditional development, what do you think are Mendix’s main advantages?

1. Key feature validation through short POCs to reduce project risks.
2. Shorter development cycles with lower bug rates, enabling faster delivery and iteration.
3. An open platform that integrates with large software like SAP and TC, supporting multi-platform , multi-scenario applications.
4. Mendix complements traditional coding, maximizing efficiency by combining low-code and high-code approaches.

MX: Would you recommend Mendix to other developers? How would you recommend it?

Zheng Li: Mendix is particularly advantageous for scenarios involving complex data logic, intricate business processes, mobile requirements, and multi-department collaboration.

Complex Data Modeling