The End of Code? LCNC Reshapes the Development Paradigm !

Sivalingaamorthy Subramaniam
4 min readJan 31, 2024

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Low Code / No Code (LCNC) Rise Up!

Imagine a future where building apps is as easy as Lego. That’s the power of LCNC!

We’ll explore how this revolution unleashes citizen developers, streamlines workflows, and fuels business agility — all without complex code. Let’s dive in!

Citizen Developer!

When I first heard ‘Citizen Developer,’ I wondered if it was truly possible for non-IT professionals to build apps. After diving into LCNC, I’m amazed by the potential they are going to get!

Developers of LCNC are generally called as Citizen Developers. A citizen developer is a non-IT employee who creates applications for business use.

They are empowered business users leverage LCNC platforms to build or modify business apps, bypassing IT departments. They’re agile and responsive to changing needs.

Why Businesses are Choosing LCNC ?

Many Low Code No Code (LCNC) platforms offer a “multi-tenant” model, where one platform serves multiple customers with their own independent applications — think of it as a shared kitchen with dedicated cooking stations. This offers:

  • Cost-Effectiveness: Shared resources translate to lower costs compared to single-tenant solutions, making LCNC accessible to a wider range of businesses.
  • Scalability: The platform easily adapts to accommodate more tenants by adding capacity — like expanding a kitchen to serve more customers.
  • Faster Deployment: Pre-configured platforms allow quick application launch, saving time and effort compared to building from scratch.
  • Centralized Management: The platform provider takes care of the underlying infrastructure and software, freeing tenants from technical burdens.
  • Enhanced Collaboration: Some platforms offer features like shared data spaces and communication tools, fostering collaboration between tenants — like chefs sharing ingredients and tips.

What are the Foundations of LCNC ?

Think cloud computing, communication platforms like Slack, Microsoft Teams, and Zoom act as central hubs for collaboration and communication, and e-commerce.

These established platforms provide fertile ground for LCNC tools to thrive, offering infrastructure, APIs, and data for easy app development.

What is the Impact of LCNC on New Grads ?

New graduates, LCNC is changing the game!

To stay ahead of the curve, upskill in areas like security, complex logic, and specific LCNC platforms.

Hone your core programming skills, embrace continuous learning, and become a valuable asset, build a unique career path in this evolving landscape.

Demand increases for developers with specialized skills!

  • Complex logic and system architecture: Building intricate back-end systems and ensuring scalability and security.
  • Custom functionalities and bespoke solutions: Developing advanced features and algorithms that push the boundaries of LCNC platforms.
  • Performance optimization and debugging: Tuning applications for optimal performance and resolving issues.
  • Security and compliance expertise: Navigating complex security challenges and ensuring regulations are met.
  • Leadership and mentorship: Guiding and training citizen developers to leverage LCNC platforms effectively.

What is the Future of Software Development ?

  • Beyond Coding: Deep expertise, problem-solving, communication, collaboration, adaptation, professionalism, and leadership will be paramount.
  • Think “Professional Approach”: Continuous learning, ethics, and mentorship will be crucial, just like in fields like law or medicine.
  • Beyond technical skills: Success will hinge on a broader skillset, including:

What is the Impact of LCNC on Seasoned Developers ?

While LCNC automates tasks like data entry and form generation, seasoned developers can leverage it to specialize in areas like Security, AI, Blockchain, or Industry-Specific Solutions, Data Science, Performance Optimization, Integration tools or Specific Programming Languages, However should continue to focus on these foundational skills!

  • Problem-solving and critical thinking: Analyze complex problems and develop creative solutions.
  • Communication and collaboration: Effectively communicate with diverse teams and stakeholders.
  • Adaptation and continuous learning: Embrace new technologies and upskill constantly.
  • Professionalism and ethics: Prioritize security, data privacy, and ethical considerations.
  • Leadership and mentorship: Guide and support citizen developers.

What are LCNC Platform & Tools ?

The below are starting point, and many other platforms and tools exist!

  • Appian: Powerful platform for enterprise applications, workflow automation, and business process management.
  • Mendix: Offers visual drag-and-drop development and extensive integration capabilities.
  • OutSystems: Feature-rich platform with rapid application development and deployment tools.
  • Microsoft Power Apps: Part of the Microsoft Power Platform, focuses on building mobile and web applications quickly.
  • Zoho Creator: Affordable and user-friendly platform for building internal business applications and customer-facing portals.
  • Bubble: Ideal for building web applications with a no-code interface and strong visual design capabilities.

Specialized LCNC Platforms:

  • Wix: Website builder with drag-and-drop interface and LCNC features for adding functionality.
  • Airtable: Combines spreadsheet functionality with database features for building robust applications.
  • Webflow: Focuses on web design and development with no-code visual tools and powerful CMS features.
  • Shopify: E-commerce platform with built-in LCNC tools for building custom online stores.
  • Retool: Simplifies building internal tools and user interfaces for developers and data analysts.

Additional Tools:

  • Adalo: Simple and intuitive platform for building mobile apps without writing code.
  • Unqork: AI-powered platform for rapid development of enterprise applications with built-in security and governance.
  • Zapier: Connects different applications and automates tasks without coding.

Most Popular Frameworks

  • ServiceNow: Workflow automation platform with low-code development capabilities.
  • Microsoft Power Automate: Part of the Power Platform, automates workflows across various Microsoft services and other applications.

Let me conclude this, LCNC platforms are not a threat to developers, but a catalyst for change.

The future of software development rewards passionate individuals who embrace continuous learning, professional excellence, and specialize in areas beyond the capabilities of LCNC platforms.

Have you used LCNC platforms to build something amazing? Tell us about your experience in the comments below! We want to hear how you’re leveraging this powerful technology.

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Sivalingaamorthy Subramaniam
Sivalingaamorthy Subramaniam

Written by Sivalingaamorthy Subramaniam

Techie by profession, having decade and half, years of experience. Nature lover, interested in travel, hiking!

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