The entire premise of web development and design is headed in a direction that’s going to allow everyone to get involved. This is due in part to what’s known as the no-code movement which is a much bigger topic than it’s gotten recognition for. This is essentially programming without needing to know how to program and being able to do so in a user-friendly way. 

For example: 

• Squarespace

• Shopify

• Zapier

• Mailchimp

These are all examples of no-code design platforms that allow users to break into the creative side of web development (using drag and drop), a skill they otherwise might not pick up. This trend suggests an entirely different future for anyone with expertise in design and/or coding. To better understand its significance, let’s go over what exactly it’s changing:

First of all, no-code does not replace the need for software developers, rather it frees them from time-consuming, repetitive, and less intuitive tasks. What this allows for is the team to focus on the overall look and feel of the platforms they create in addition to other complex tasks that go into web development. 

The other key benefit is that web developers and designers will be able to collaborate without the need for as much technical expertise. In addition, small businesses will have accessibility and control when it comes to maintaining their own websites.

Web Development Compared to Web Design

Web design is the front-end, interactive aspect of a website that visitors see. The best web designers use various tools such as Adobe Dreamweaver or Figma to create the most optimal user experience. Visual designers and UX designers create the following:

• Design systems 

• Mockups 

• Wireframes 

• Templates 

• Colour palettes

Once the designs are created, they are passed over to developers to begin development. 

Web development is the execution phase, using code to bring the website to life based on the guidelines created in the web design phase. When it comes to this phase, the actual process of coding is going to be subjective based on the needs of the website as well as the business. Commonly, some of the programming languages used for web development include: 

• JavaScript 

• CSS 

• Python 

• HTML

• Ruby on Rails

The Development Roles

Back-end developers concentrate on the site or applications infrastructure which includes security and hosting. The front-end developers are the ones who then handle the functionality of the platform. And lastly, the full-stack developers are involved in both ends. This process of software development and integration is fundamental not only to creating a solid platform but to sustaining it. 

The Reality of The No-Code Movement

The tools categorized as no-code platforms are great visual builders that are user-friendly and simple to navigate but still, code is being generated behind the scenes. So in short, these tools are great for users who want to give building websites and applications online a shot without having to write code but it is still a stepping stone. 

The no-code movement has a long way to go before it can say goodbye to programmers and even still, someone is at least going to need to upkeep the back end. However, these tools are still incredibly useful for everyone, especially software developers around 50% of which use these platforms. Lastly, these tools are not limited to just websites and applications. For instance:

• Airtable (database creation)

• Ada (create an AI chatbot)

• Zapier (multiple app connection)

• Voximplant (contact centres via the cloud)

There is so much variety that can really only enhance the amount of value software developers and software outsourcing companies have to offer businesses looking to undergo digital transformation. When it comes to scaling a business, some of the key benefits of no-code platforms are as follows:

• Launch speed: In the best interest of company time and resources, no-code platforms enable businesses to release their solutions very quickly. Also, since collaboration between designers and developers is a viable option, the process flow is much more smooth. 

• Flexibility: Businesses go through a lot of changes in their platforms that need to be able to happen quickly. Using these solutions, sales, HR, marketing, and other departments of an organization will have access to build and modify their tools. 

• Cost: Small to mid-sized businesses will love no-code platforms since they won’t have to put a massive budget into engineers when they’re just getting started. 

• Testing: Design concepts and trends can quickly be tested, and once results are uncovered, the team can configure the platform most optimally. 

Lastly

In every industry, processes, resources, workflows, and plenty of other important assets change. So if you think about that, the work we do today won’t look the same in the future. With that in mind, the obvious choice (if you intend to remain in your role) is to embrace the change and figure out how to use it to your advantage. 

Custom software development is at the pinnacle of these changes because, without effective software systems, businesses will have no ability to scale.

Written By Ben Brown

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ISU Corp is an award-winning software development company, with over 17 years of experience in multiple industries, providing cost-effective custom software development, technology management, and IT outsourcing.

Our unique owners’ mindset reduces development costs and fast-tracks timelines. We help craft the specifications of your project based on your company's needs, to produce the best ROI. Find out why startups, all the way to fortune 500 companies like General Electric, Heinz, and many others have trusted us with their projects. Contact us here.