No-Code: Hype vs Reality in Future Programming

When many people think of no-code, they envision creating high-level things like mobile apps without the need for coding. To some extent, this is a reasonable assumption, as no-code aims to make tasks such as data management and workflow automation more user-friendly.

However, this doesn't necessarily mean we're entering an era where software can be developed without developers. In this article, we will discuss potential ways to leverage no-code, taking into account its drawbacks.

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Can You Build Apps with No-Code?

Many are well aware of the advantages of no-code—it allows for rapid creation in a more user-friendly environment and is often more cost-effective than hiring developers.

What about the drawbacks of no-code? Despite the emergence of many no-code tools in the market, there are still limitations when it comes to producing high-quality outcomes.

However, when quality is intertwined with technology, a serious issue arises: security. Services created with no-code can be inherently vulnerable. Considering the increasing strengthening of laws and security certifications related to various personal information, this drawback could become significant.

Addressing security issues with no-code is challenging for two reasons. Firstly, those building with no-code typically have a lower understanding of technology on average. This is natural, as someone with a high understanding of technology would likely choose to code directly instead of using no-code. Secondly, since no-code primarily manipulates the user interface without changes to the backend structure, the results are inevitably prone to security vulnerabilities.

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Is No-Code the Future of Products? - Is No-Code a Lie?

Nevertheless, despite its drawbacks, no-code is becoming part of the tech stack in product teams. When we think about no-code, we may imagine creating everything without developers, but that's not a strict necessity. For example, using no-code can help colleagues collaborate more effectively, allowing them to focus on more critical tasks.

Google Analytics and Amplitude are familiar examples. These tools have enabled us to handle many tasks that were previously dependent on data scientists. Moreover, sending data to such tools can be done not by developers but through Google Tag Manager. No-code helps reduce dependence on colleagues from different professions.

No-code ultimately signifies having more options. It provides opportunities to execute ideas "quickly" or at a "lower cost" without hiring developers.

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Coding vs. No-Code

The limits of no-code are clear. Therefore, it is essential to distinguish when to code and when to use no-code.

Kenan Saleh, co-founder of HelloCaz, advises: "Code what gives your business a unique value proposition." Coding is essential to create exactly what customers want. This sets you apart in the competitive landscape.

If you develop core functionalities with no-code, it becomes easier for others to replicate. No-code is ideal when starting a business or working on side projects, especially for startups without sufficient funding or projects that don't require originality.

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In Conclusion

Even if no-code becomes more mainstream, developers and coding are unlikely to disappear. Many businesses will still rely on traditional development. No-code might be necessary or unnecessary depending on the business context and goals. Nevertheless, despite this, no-code undoubtedly provides us with more options. While it may not be the future of digital product development, it could be an important skill for us.