The Past, Present, and Future of No-Code

Nice article.

When people think of code, they often think of lines of text in a text-based code editor. I have a slightly different view of what constitutes creating code. For example, many people think of Integromat as a “no-code” platform, but creating an Integromat scenario requires all the logical thinking that goes into writing code, just not the actually command line typing. Many “learn-to-code” apps for children don’t involve any typing–the code is all built with drag-and-drop, point-and-click elements.

Another issue that I see is that many times people think “no-code” means that you don’t have to be a developer. However, as these “no-code” platforms expand their capabilities, the need for developers will still be there. It is just easier than ever to become a developer. Even if you do not need to type lines of code to create a system, you still need to take the time to learn the platform, its capabilities, and its limitations.

I see these “no-code” platforms as tools, similar to the development of pens, typewriters, word processors, etc. Before, in order to write a novel, you had to be able to handwrite pages and pages of text and convince a publisher to print the book. Now, someone can write a novel by dictating into a computer and self-publish. The mechanics of creating the novel is easier, but the heart of the novel still needs to be the author who comes up with the ideas and puts them into words. So too with apps, the mechanics of creating an app is easier, but you still need a creator/developer involved.