Johna Johnson, an expert on citizen coding's impact in business, and John Burke, a commentator on low-code/no-code risks, delve into the rising trend of citizen coders. They discuss how non-programmers can create software, enhancing efficiency but also introducing potential security threats. The duo explores the tension between IT departments and employees, emphasizes the importance of structured frameworks to support novice developers, and examines how AI can help mitigate coding vulnerabilities. Is the movement a true boon or a looming bane?
The rise of citizen coders through low-code/no-code platforms boosts efficiency but risks quality due to untrained software development.
Implementing guardrails and structured guidance is essential for organizations to balance citizen coding innovation with maintaining software quality.
Deep dives
The Rise of Citizen Coders
The concept of citizen coders is gaining traction as more businesses encourage non-technical users to develop their own software solutions through low-code or no-code platforms. This movement allows subject matter experts to address specific challenges without waiting for IT development resources, thereby increasing productivity and efficiency. For example, tools like Zapier and Boomi enable users to create automated workflows with minimal coding experience, empowering employees to streamline processes within their departments. However, the implementation of citizen coding requires careful consideration of best practices to avoid pitfalls associated with untrained developers.
Balancing Automation and Professional Coding
There is an ongoing debate about the effectiveness of citizen coders versus trained programmers, particularly regarding the quality of the final product. While citizen coders may create solutions that address immediate needs, they often lack the rigorous training that professional developers possess, leading to potentially long-lasting mistakes. Instances such as hard-coded variables or redundant data entries show that without proper oversight and guidelines, citizen coding can lead to complications like technical debt. Organizations must find a balance between leveraging the creativity of citizen coders and utilizing the expertise of trained developers for more complex tasks.
Guardrails for Citizen Coding
To mitigate the risks associated with citizen coding, organizations can implement guardrails that guide users in creating functional and efficient solutions. These can include providing access to authoritative data sources and integrating systems that prevent the use of outdated information. Tools designed for citizen developers can incorporate features like flowcharting to encourage logical thinking and structured problem-solving, enhancing the quality of their outputs. By doing so, companies can foster a more effective citizen development culture, promoting innovation while minimizing mistakes.
The Future of Automation and AI Integration
Future automation trends will increasingly revolve around hyper-automation, which focuses on automating as many processes as possible with a cohesive strategy. This approach involves deploying various technologies, including low-code platforms, robotic process automation, and artificial intelligence, to improve efficiency across organizations. Companies need to ensure that they have a well-thought-out implementation plan to avoid chaos, as seen in past instances with unmonitored citizen coding projects. As automation becomes more integrated into business processes, the role of professional developers will shift towards higher-level tasks, ensuring that organizations maintain quality and security in their software solutions.
The low-code/no-code movement means business users who aren’t programmers can create software. This capability might make these citizen coders more efficient and productive, but could also pose risks due to a lack of formal training in software development and security. Is citizen coding a boon or bane to business? Johna Johnson and John Burke discuss... Read more »
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