What Is a No-Code Developer?

Key takeaways

A no-code developer uses specialized platforms to create applications and other solutions to solve business challenges without the need for coding. Here are some important facts to know:

• Around 45 percent of employers report finding skilled information technology (IT) workers as a significant challenge [1], driving the rising demand for no-code developers and the platforms they use for their work.

• No-code development saves money and time building basic applications, including reservation apps, business automation functions, and back-office apps, such as those that track key performance indicators (KPIs). 

• You can work as a no-code developer without technical expertise or explore the qualifications for more of a traditional application developer role.

Learn more about the tools you might use as a no-code developer and how this role differs from low-code and traditional development. If you want to become a traditional developer and build the skills you’ll need for a thriving career with coding-based positions, consider enrolling in the IBM Full-Stack JavaScript Developer Professional Certificate. 

No code vs. low code vs. traditional development

Software development has evolved, giving businesses and developers options beyond traditional development. The traditional software development life cycle typically includes multiple phases, such as planning, evaluating if the project is feasible, designing the software, developing the software, testing, deployment, and ongoing maintenance. The average time frame can be anywhere from four to nine months or even up to one year, depending on the complexity of the project. 

Low-code development relies on specialized tools with templates and drag-and-drop features for faster creation of business applications and products. It shortens the development life cycle considerably, making it possible to build an app in as little as 30 days. In addition to the ability to bring applications to market faster, low-code development allows IT professionals to automate some of the more repetitive aspects of traditional coding, freeing them to focus more on complex tasks. 

While low-code offers a happy medium, bridging the need for skilled coders and the ease of automation, you can build a no-code development application like a content management platform or business intelligence (BI) reporting app using no-code development. You can also use it to create simple web applications like reservation apps, automate business processes and workflow, and implement back-office apps, like those you might use to track KPIs. No-code takes low-code a step further, providing visual tools that allow you to create an app without needing familiarity with scripting and programming languages, and completely independent from a traditional developer.

The rise of the citizen developer

The global market for citizen developers, nontechnical professionals who use available technologies to create software development products such as applications and automation programs, continues to grow. Using user-friendly, low- and no-code platforms, citizen developers are helping to fill the gaps created by the global IT talent shortage and meet the increasing demand for business applications.

Learn more: What Is a Skills Gap?

Data from the Skillsoft IT Skills & Salary Report shows that 45 percent of decision makers struggle to find candidates with the skills they need. [1]. This shortage has been steadily fueling the rise of citizen and no-code developers. It is also driving the growth of the no-code platform market, set to reach $86.55 billion in 2029, up from $35.61 billion in 2024 [2].

In addition to talent shortages, nontechnical professionals may have a keener understanding of the application’s audience than IT workers. This makes them uniquely qualified to work on the development end of things. 

Unlike low- and no-code developers, “citizen developer” describes more of a function than a specific job role. They create applications that enhance productivity and help their business connect with customers and clients more effectively, often collaborating with IT professionals along the way.

Will no code replace developers? 

Although no-code tools provide powerful, and often AI-powered, options for businesses that need applications and don’t have the right professionals for the job, they likely won’t replace developers. Businesses will still need developers to optimize no-code projects and add depth and increased functionality as needed. Additionally, research shows that 84 percent of IT leaders believe no-code solutions will enhance their work, rather than replace their positions [3].

How to become a no-code developer

You can become a no-code developer with various qualifications, with minimal technical expertise, outside of familiarity with no-code tools and platforms needed. These tools are what take the complexity and guesswork out of the equation. They allow you to build automated solutions, applications, and websites using simple, pre-built components and intuitive drag-and-drop tools—minimal technical know-how necessary. 

In turn, the path to becoming a no-code developer remains relatively versatile and flexible. The following actions may help smooth the journey moving forward. 

1. Become familiar with no-code development tools

The no-code platform market is expected to grow by 24.9 percent through 2030 [2]. Whether you’re a professional working in a specific role, an entrepreneur, or a small business owner, choosing one no-code development tool that meets your needs offers an excellent starting point. 

A few to consider include: 

• Bubble: Balances usability and powerful features; ideal for building minimum viable product (MVP) and prototypes

• Kissflow: User-friendly interface with cloud-native integrations; ideal for enterprise-level apps

• Zapier: Focuses on automation and integrates with many other apps; ideal for coordinating and managing, and maintaining multiple AI models

• Softr: Many templates for transforming data and workflows into solutions; ideal for total beginners

2. Build your portfolio

As you practice or complete projects using no-code platforms, use the results to create a portfolio. This can help pave the way to more opportunities to make your skill set shine as you seek chances to put your no-code skills to work. 

3. Sharpen your other skills

You might not need coding experience, but as a no-code developer, you should have a strong skill set. A few to focus on include communication, collaboration, problem-solving, and a commitment to ongoing learning. 

Is Figma no-code?

Yes, Figma is a no-code tool, although it’s not a no-code platform. Rather, you use Figma for no-code design workflows, including building no-code prototypes. Features like Code Connect allow you to add custom component code to libraries, view code snippets, and map design components in code. It also has Dev Mode, which allows developers to create code based on Figma designs, bridging design and development teams for improved collaboration.  

The no-code developer job market explained

The role of a no-code developer is still emerging, and, to date, is less of a formal role and more of a function within another position. You could work in marketing, for example, and take on the role of no-code developer to fast-track an app your team can use to gather customer feedback. Or, you could be an HR professional looking to build a simple calendar planning app. No-code development opens the door to more opportunities for non-technical professionals. It’s also a tool that software developers can use within their own workflows. 

How much do no-code developers make? 

No-code development salaries range as widely as the positions themselves. For example, in the more generalized position of business technologist, you might make a median total salary of $104,000, which includes base pay plus additional forms of compensation like bonuses and profit sharing [4]. 

You might opt to specialize in a specific platform. For example, a Bubble developer, a type of web developer who specializes in using the no-code Bubble platform, earns a median total salary of $78,000 [5]. 

Additionally, you could work as a low-code developer, switching between low-code and no-code projects. Low-code developers earn around $103,000 per year [6].

Getting started in no-code

To begin in no-code, you’ll need to first talk to other stakeholders to get approval, unless you’re working on a freelance basis or on your own project. Then, it’s time to find a no-code platform. Look for options that have built-in controls to limit the number of people who can access it unless they have proper authorization. 

Also, look for options that have the security features that meet your (and your organization’s) needs, have some level of customization available, and integrate with your internal data sources. 

From that point, you only need three main steps:

1. Build your app using all the tools available within your chosen platform

2. Test what you build to ensure it functions properly and to remove any bugs 

3. Launch the finished product and maintain it to keep it running smoothly

Explore free resources to build your skills

Whether you want to become more familiar with the development process or brush up on workplace skills that can help advance your career. With Career Chat, our free weekly LinkedIn newsletter, you can stay on top of all the latest trends and career options. Other resources to check out include the following:

• Assess your career goals: Web Developer Quiz: Which Role Is Right for Me?

• Watch on YouTube: Why Software Developers Need to Understand AI

• Hear from an insider: Reimagining Work and Learning with AI: Expert Insights from Dr. Jules White

Additionally, consider subscribing to Coursera Plus. This monthly or annual subscription allows you to learn and earn credentials from more than 350 leading companies and universities, with more than 10,000 programs. 

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