It's time you learn a low-code/no-code tool
How you can build a web application that provides value without learning to code
How I came across these tools
One thing that has always been challenging was that when I have a new technology idea there is no quick way to build the idea myself. My first reaction has been to find someone else to build the idea for me. Not anymore.
As someone who has worked with software development teams in non-technical roles, I know that development work can be complex and take unique skillsets with years of experience to develop a custom product that provides the value intended.
After becoming frustrated with repeatedly telling friends about technology ideas that I had come up with and that I needed a developer to build them; I came across low-code/no-code tools.
My experience with low-code/no-code
Low-code development platforms (LCDPs) require some basic coding skills for users to develop and integrate complex applications, while no-code development platforms (NCDPs) do not require programming knowledge at all.
After exploring this relatively new technology, to me at-least, I realized all the ideas that I have dreamed to build were possible by myself with only knowing the basics of how to drag-and-drop components, use an excel spreadsheet, and google.
I quickly began exploring existing templates, youtube tutorials, and receiving feedback from friends on the different drafts of my application that was now able to be used across any device. I wish someone had explained that these tools were available sooner so that I could have spent more of my time building and testing my ideas as opposed to looking for a developer and trying to learn coding languages that were not my strong suit or even needed for the ideas I wanted to test.
Using GlideApps
There are many low-code/no-code platforms that exist and are actively updated. GlideApps.com has been the tool that initially sparked my interest and has been amazing to learn the ins and out of for what it means to build an application.
I believe learning to be hands on in a low-code/no-code tool has enabled me to become a better technologist as I have improved how to think through an idea, test it quickly, and understand more about what it takes to implement feature enhancements to progressive web applications at a base level.
These platforms are far more advanced than I had originally thought and have the ability to provide and customize:
Authentication/Authorization (One time passwords)
Form inputs
Lists/Tables/Calendars/Maps
Text/Images/Video/Web embed/Container abilities
Custom Website URL (DNS)
Integrations with Zapier/Make (formerly Integromat) for external uses such as:
Email notifications
Payment Processing
API/Webhook support
Analytics
ChatGPT AI integration natively
Responsive, working on both desktop and mobile
The best part was that GlideApps is FREE to build any application you would want and costs only start when you begin to scale users & resource use.
The only real downside that I have found is that these applications cannot be downloaded via an Appstore (iOS & Android).
In order to create an easier way for customers to revisit the site, as opposed to saving a URL as a bookmark, you will need have each user use their mobile A2HS (Add to Home Screen) option which is manual by users and not automated via a button selection in these low-code/no-code tools due to code configuration requirements. If anyone has figured out a way please let me know!
After learning how to use GlideApps, I believe that low-code/no-code tools are the perfect starting point for any individual with an idea that they want to build quickly and receive feedback before putting in unneeded time & money trying build an application natively in iOS or Android.
It's time you learn a low-code/no-code tool.
Check out what we’re building!
Earshot is an application to connect Venues and Musicians to conduct local live music events that are shared with fans.
Create a free fan account today at earshotlivemusic.com!
Below is an example of a Venue user creating a post to Musicians for an upcoming booking.
