Automation is your key to increasing efficiency and reducing manual work. But how do you implement it?

There are two different approaches you might want to take when it comes to automating your workflows: no-code platforms and API-based solutions. Both are beneficial in their own way, and deciding between the two will depend on what your business needs and what resources and technical capabilities you have.

This article will cover the key differences between no-code and API, their use cases, and the pros and cons of each to help you figure out which is the right fit for you.

Let’s dive in!

What is an API?

An API, or application programming interface, is a digital bridge between two software systems, allowing for the exchange of data or functionality. It’s what enables tools like your CRM and website to communicate with each other automatically.

In modern software development, APIs play a crucial role in enabling systems to interact, particularly through REST APIs that expose clear and well-documented API endpoints.

APIs typically require the expertise of a developer to implement and manage, but they can be highly powerful and flexible. They are great for complex systems with advanced integration needs, as they give you a higher level of control.

Here’s a deeper dive into APIs.

What does no-code mean?

No-code platforms let users build workflows or applications without having to write code. Instead, they use tools like drag-and-drop builders, logic flows, or templates.

These no-code solutions are designed to be user-friendly and intuitive, making them accessible to non-developers who want to quickly configure business workflows.

Particularly useful for non-technical users, no-code means your teams can launch automations faster without having to wait on developers because everything is on a single platform.

Pro-Tip: No-code is a solid option for teams that need to move quickly and efficiently but don’t want to rely on engineering support.

What does low-code mean?

Low-code platforms are a middle ground between no-code and full custom development. They let users build apps or workflows with minimal coding–think drag-and-drop tools combined with some scripting for custom logic.

They include some technical scripting, but you don’t have to worry about things like infrastructure or backend setup. You get the flexibility to build more complex workflows while still moving faster than traditional development.

Low-code also makes it easier to work with APIs — ideal for more technical users who want a bit more control without starting from scratch. Many no-code tools even offer low-code features as an add-on for power users.

No-code vs API: what’s the difference?

Both no-code and APIs aim to automate your workflows, but they are significantly different in how they are built and who they’re built for.

Let’s take a closer look:

When to use no-code platforms

Use no-code platforms when:

• You have limited tech resources and need to launch quickly
• You have straightforward workflows for approvals, document generation, notifications, etc.
• You want the power to build your own solutions without high developmental costs
• You are prototyping or testing new workflows
• You’re looking to streamline operations without investing in traditional software development

For example, your sales team could use PandaDoc as a central resource to automatically generate contracts from your CRM data, send them off for eSignature, and store them. Plus, you can do all of that and more without writing any code.

No-code platforms are especially useful for startups and small businesses that need to focus on speed and agility without the heavy lifting of coding.

When to use API-based solutions

It’s best to use APIs when:
You’ve hit limits in what you can build with visual builders and need custom logic that no-code platforms can’t handle
Your document volume is high enough that no-code platform pricing becomes unsustainable
You want embedded experiences where documents appear directly inside your product rather than redirecting users to external tools. This often requires thoughtful API design, including how API endpoints handle requests and how authentication is managed securely.
You’re building customer-facing workflows that need to feel like core product features
You have access to internal or external developers who are familiar with programming languages and best practices for API development.

When you’re working with enterprise-grade automations, APIs are the way to go. The same goes for back-end integrations or customer-facing systems that call for excellent control and performance.

Learn what you can build with PandaDoc API.

Pros and cons of no-code vs API

Here’s a breakdown of all the pros and cons of both approaches:

Using both together

So, do you have to choose one or the other? The short answer is no.

In fact, many companies take a hybrid approach. They use no-code tools for internal automations, such as automatically creating tasks when documents are signed or syncing data between systems. This allows non-developers to configure workflows quickly, while your developers focus on front-end integrations or expanding your open source components via the API platform. Then they use APIs for customer-facing features, such as allowing users to generate and sign contracts directly on their platform without redirects.

For example, a vertical SaaS platform might use Zapier to automatically create project tasks when contracts are signed (internal workflow), but use the API to let their customers generate and sign those contracts directly inside the platform as an embedded experience.

This approach works well because you get the speed and simplicity of no-code platforms for internal operations, while getting the control, flexibility, and scalability of APIs for the customer-facing features that need to feel like native parts of your product.

See what else you can build with the PandaDoc API.

No-code vs API: deciding what’s best for your business

Choosing no-code vs. API will come down to your individual needs as a business.

For example, if you need to move quickly without developer support, no-code might be the better option for you in this case. Or, if you have a need for custom logic or deep system integrations, APIs could be more useful.

It’s common to have a mix of both be the right solution. It’s always safe to start with no-code, then scale or extend your setup with APIs as your business and its needs evolve.

Align your automation strategy with your business goals

While no-code gives you speed and accessibility, APIs give you power and precision. The key is choosing the right tool at the right time to more effectively implement automation. And remember, you can always use a combination of both!

PandaDoc offers solutions that allow you to create, send, and manage proposals, quotes, contracts, and eSignatures speedily, all without writing any code. If you’re ready to automate your workflows, we’ve got you covered with tons of built-in features and integrations with top tools like HubSpot, Salesforce, and more.

We also offer our PandaDoc API for your more advanced needs for integration. Our API changes the game for your workflow, allowing you to create, manage, and eSign documents right on your platform.

Plus, our API can help you significantly speed up your processes for a more effective workflow—just ask our client, Colonies.

When users don’t have to leave your platform to sign documents, completion rates improve significantly. With PandaDoc API, Colonies was able to reduce time spent getting signatures by 25%

“PandaDoc’s API integration has been a transformative tool for Colonies as we continue to scale across new properties and countries. Each lease is automatically tailored to meet regional legal requirements and property specifics, saving countless hours in document preparation and significantly reduced errors. Automating these processes within our platform has not only improved tenant satisfaction but also empowered our team to focus on expanding our reach and enhancing our offerings.”

– Thomas Guillot, VP Digital at Colonies

Ready to see how PandaDoc can work for you? Request a free demo today.

Originally published August 27, 2025, updated February 6, 2026