The myth of "No-Code"
Posted: Sat Dec 21, 2024 5:16 am
Believe it or not, to launch a simple word processor, you used to have to type a command. It started a little like this:
C:\
We're so used to clicking and tapping on colorful icons to get work done. For many of us, the concept of controlling our computers with long strings of commands seems medieval.
The principle has spread to all aspects of computing, obscuring code with more attractive and easier-to-use gimmicks. Thanks to the marketing hype, we now know it as “no-code,” a term that polarizes if taken literally. Why? Some skeptics believe that “no-code” heralds the end of the world for coders.
This couldn’t be further from the truth: “no-code” doesn’t banish code; it simply allows users to perform actions using attractive visuals. “No-code” platforms turn communication email list JavaScript, C, and even markup languages like HTML into buttons you can press and blocks you can drag and drop. But behind the curtain are still traditional programming languages; they’re just out of sight of the typical user.
How no-code is transforming every industry
At their core, no-code apps democratize software development so that anyone can participate more easily. Like their low-code counterparts, these user-friendly apps eliminate barriers to entry and are increasingly common across industries:
Marketers and everyday social media users can design flashy, professional graphics in Canva, something that previously required basic PhotoShop skills.
Want to start an online store? Sign up for a Shopify account and you'll be able to create a beautiful storefront in just a few days.
Want to try your hand at designing a video game? Earlier this year, Nintendo launched the Game Builder Garage, where players can drag and drop assets and connect a vast library of actions to code their own game.
More complex, no-code or low-code workflow platforms , such as ProcessMaker , invite business users to click and drag blocks that trigger API connectors, secure signature requests, photo uploads, data validators, and more.
No-code interfaces welcome non-programmers with much less intimidating interfaces. They turn hundreds of lines of code into an exercise that mirrors the ease with which one can insert a fade transition into a PowerPoint presentation or add an image into an email campaign builder.
C:\
We're so used to clicking and tapping on colorful icons to get work done. For many of us, the concept of controlling our computers with long strings of commands seems medieval.
The principle has spread to all aspects of computing, obscuring code with more attractive and easier-to-use gimmicks. Thanks to the marketing hype, we now know it as “no-code,” a term that polarizes if taken literally. Why? Some skeptics believe that “no-code” heralds the end of the world for coders.
This couldn’t be further from the truth: “no-code” doesn’t banish code; it simply allows users to perform actions using attractive visuals. “No-code” platforms turn communication email list JavaScript, C, and even markup languages like HTML into buttons you can press and blocks you can drag and drop. But behind the curtain are still traditional programming languages; they’re just out of sight of the typical user.
How no-code is transforming every industry
At their core, no-code apps democratize software development so that anyone can participate more easily. Like their low-code counterparts, these user-friendly apps eliminate barriers to entry and are increasingly common across industries:
Marketers and everyday social media users can design flashy, professional graphics in Canva, something that previously required basic PhotoShop skills.
Want to start an online store? Sign up for a Shopify account and you'll be able to create a beautiful storefront in just a few days.
Want to try your hand at designing a video game? Earlier this year, Nintendo launched the Game Builder Garage, where players can drag and drop assets and connect a vast library of actions to code their own game.
More complex, no-code or low-code workflow platforms , such as ProcessMaker , invite business users to click and drag blocks that trigger API connectors, secure signature requests, photo uploads, data validators, and more.
No-code interfaces welcome non-programmers with much less intimidating interfaces. They turn hundreds of lines of code into an exercise that mirrors the ease with which one can insert a fade transition into a PowerPoint presentation or add an image into an email campaign builder.