Creating Custom Logic with Microflows and Nanoflows
In low-code platforms like Mendix, building applications is fast, visual, and collaborative. But what happens when you need to implement custom logic—things like data validation, decision-making, or integration with external systems? That’s where Microflows and Nanoflows come in.
These powerful tools allow developers to build tailored business logic without writing traditional code, using a drag-and-drop interface instead. In this blog, we’ll explore how to create custom logic using Microflows and Nanoflows, their differences, and best practices for building intelligent, responsive apps.
🧠 What Are Microflows?
Microflows are visual representations of logic and workflows in Mendix that run on the server side. They are used to manipulate data, perform calculations, connect to APIs, execute conditional logic, and more.
Key Features:
Server-side execution
Can read/write to the database
Support complex logic, loops, decisions, and integrations
Triggered by events like button clicks, page loads, or scheduled jobs
Use Cases:
Creating or updating records
Validating form inputs
Sending emails or notifications
Calling REST or SOAP services
Customizing business rules
⚡ What Are Nanoflows?
Nanoflows, on the other hand, are lightweight logic flows that run on the client side (inside the browser or mobile device). They are designed for fast, real-time user interactions that don’t require server access unless explicitly needed.
Key Features:
Client-side execution
Faster performance for UI interactions
Limited database access (only via web APIs or synchronizations)
Great for mobile and offline apps
Use Cases:
Showing/hiding elements dynamically
Performing local validations
Triggering animations or page transitions
Working offline on mobile apps
🔧 Creating a Microflow: Step-by-Step
Open your Mendix project in Studio Pro
Navigate to Logic → Microflows
Click New Microflow, name it logically (e.g., CreateOrder)
Use the toolbox to drag and drop activities such as:
Retrieve – to get data from the database
Create/Change Object – to modify or generate data
Decision – to handle conditional logic
Call REST service – to integrate external APIs
Connect the actions with lines to represent flow
Set input and output parameters
Link the microflow to a UI element like a button or form submission
⚙️ Creating a Nanoflow
Navigate to Logic → Nanoflows
Create a new Nanoflow and give it a clear name
Add actions such as:
Show Message – to display alerts
Navigate To – to switch pages
Call Microflow – to trigger server logic if needed
Change Variable – to modify local state
Use for quick UI updates or mobile interactions without round trips to the server
🧩 Microflows vs. Nanoflows: When to Use What?
Feature Microflow Nanoflow
Execution Side Server Client (Browser/Device)
Access to DB Full Limited (via APIs)
Use Case Business logic, APIs UI logic, quick response
Offline Support No Yes (mobile)
🏁 Final Thoughts
Microflows and Nanoflows are the heart of custom logic in Mendix. Whether you're integrating complex business processes or enhancing user interaction with real-time feedback, these tools let you build powerful functionality—without writing a single line of code.
By mastering flows, conditions, and actions, you can create scalable, maintainable, and intuitive applications faster than ever.
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