When people hear the word “coding,” they would usually think of long strings of computer programming typed out manually in green letters and numbers on a black screen. Kind of like in the movies. It looks incredibly complicated and intimidating.
Software
development is a complex skill. It requires a lot of time and experience to be
proficient at it. Although intimidating, there is a way to get your foot in the
door of the programming and development world.
What is No-Code Development?
No-code development allows non-programmers and programmers alike to build applications and software with a graphical user interface. This type of web development is more approachable. Even non-technical users can get started in creating their own software with a few easy steps.
No-code
is made possible by an abstraction layer over code. By using a visual interface
and a simple drag-and-drop of elements, no-code developers can easily build
their software. Different software systems and applications can be made with
little to no coding knowledge before starting a coding project.
Why No-Code Development is For Everyone
The accessibility of no-code development today is an exciting thing. Since no-code development is gaining popularity, more and more tools are available on the market.
No-code platforms are customizable and scalable. This makes it more flexible for the developer to add new features to change any existing ones.
The adaptability afforded to just about anyone also helps make building software faster, cheaper, and more efficient, with the help of no-code.
Collaboration between developers and other teams is easier, as well. This is
especially helpful as employers look for ways to support developers, allowing
them to do more in less time amidst the developer shortage.
How To Start With No-Code Development
The
rising availability of no-code development platforms makes it more accessible
and affordable to build software, apps, and websites. Here are a few ways you
could jumpstart your no-code development journey.
1. Start with a pilot project
Know what you want to work on as your project. Is it a website, software, or app?
The best way to figure this out is to pinpoint a problem you want to solve. Maybe you want to update your website. Perhaps you want to make a budget tracking app that has the features you want.
The key is to start small. Set a limited scope and have it serve a specific purpose.
Keep in
mind your first project does not have to be groundbreaking. Pilots are meant to
help you get out of your shell, experiment, learn the different processes and
technologies, and improve as you go.
2. Choose your no-code platform
Once you’ve figured out what you’ll be making for your pilot, it is time to find the right no-code development platform. This is important as this is literally the foundation of your project.
Different
platforms focus on different developer wants and needs. Go ahead and choose the
platform that fits your project best.
3. Find a mentor
Having a mentor can help you improve faster. Having someone to provide immediate feedback on your progress or being able to reach out to them when you find yourself in front of a roadblock is an incredible tool to have in your arsenal.
Your
mentor can be someone in IT, a programmer, a developer, or someone who is a few
steps ahead of you in the no-code journey and can impart some wisdom. You want
someone who understands your vision for your project and guides you to the
proper and efficient way to achieve your goals.
4. Find a community
If you are unable to find a mentor, the next best thing is to be part of a community. These communities can be great resources for no-code builders as well as an engaging place to share your progress, learn from each other, and grow as a developer.
You can visit communities like No Code HQ, Nucode, No-Code Makers, Nocoders Academy, and NoCode.Tech. Not only are they a treasure trove of resources and knowledge, but their communities are incredibly supportive and helpful.
Being
able to pick the brains of other developers from different skill levels can be
incredibly helpful for your own no-code development journey.
5. Always run tests
One thing to note about developing a web, app, or software is that you should always test what you build. Run your tests in different stages of your build as well.
Identifying
problems early on can help you move forward with your project with fewer
hiccups down the line. You can also turn to your community to help you when
you’re running these tests. You can pick up some neat tips and tricks from
their feedback.
Never
stop learning
Web, app, or software development is an organic thing. There is always something new to learn, even with something as basic as no-code development.
No-code development can even become the first step for a lot of people in the programming and development realm. Being able to move past the initial intimidation of the world of building a website or software from scratch.
When you find yourself in a community you are comfortable in and interact with, there’s just so much you can learn. With that, you always have room for improvement. And that’s the exciting thing about the no-code development journey.