The tech world has a diversity problem. Can low-code and no-code software bring more possibilities to more people? Low-code and no-code software development tools aren’t just a way to make people more productive. They can bring new ideas to businesses and provide more opportunities for women and underrepresented minorities in technology.
“We live in a very special time when it comes to the advent of coding,” Jenn Stirrup, founder and CEO of Data Relish, pointed out in a recent post. “Traditionally, coding has been a challenge, and it’s been limited to people who can afford to go to college and learn to code for four years. »
With the growing trend of lifelong learning through online and campus-based courses, there are opportunities for users outside of IT departments to develop basic coding skills, says Jenn Stirrup. “Low-code and no-code application development uses tools that allow people with no programming experience to create software that automates work processes. »
Fight against inequalities
The urgency of encouraging non-professional development emerged in a recent Microsoft survey of 900 users and executives. Embracing low-code or no-code platforms can also help address gender disparity in IT, writes Richard Riley, senior director of product marketing for Microsoft’s Power Platform. “Currently, less than 20% of cloud computing professionals are women. »
It works both ways. Companies that facilitate low-code development may find it easier to attract talent. According to Richard Riley, more than 80% of users and potential users of low-code or no-code platforms say they would be more willing to work for a company that invests in their technical upskilling.
Although the survey was funded by Microsoft, which promotes the concept of low code to promote its Power Platform, it also makes compelling arguments about the impact of low code and no code environments. Indeed, allowing users to quickly create their own solutions creates a highly innovative and less bureaucratic environment. The majority of users of low-code or no-code environments, 82%, agree that this technology allows software users to improve their development knowledge and technical skills. Additionally, using no-code or low-code platforms or apps is shown to have an 83% positive impact on user satisfaction and workload, and an 80% positive impact on morale. users.
Raising awareness and investing
An overwhelming majority of managers and users (71% and 76%, respectively) point to a lack of awareness of potential use cases for low-code software. Cybersecurity concerns, as well as the cost and training required for their employees to maximize the value of these platforms or applications, also feature prominently.
“The call to invest in employee development is urgent,” says Richard Riley, noting that 71% of potential users are less likely to consider or stay with employers who don’t invest in their technical skills. “Leaders and managers need to critically examine the opportunities they provide to employees and how they support their IT teams, business analysts and developers of all identities,” he says. “When it comes to providing meaningful learning opportunities and a clear path for advancement, low-code or no-code development platforms could be the answer they’ve been looking for. »
The beauty “of no-code solutions is that you get the unexpected programmer, the person who understands the business and can do something to solve a problem internally, increasing productivity by potentially helping you,” says Jenn Stirrup.
Source: ZDNet.com