Low-code/No-code Development Empowering Non-Developers: A Study on the Rise of Low-Code Web Platforms

Abstract

The rapid evolution of digital technologies has catalyzed a significant shift in software development practices, paving the way for Low-Code and No-Code (LCNC) platforms that empower non-developers to participate in application creation. This study explores the growing adoption of LCNC web platforms, examining how they enable individuals without formal programming skills to build functional, scalable web applications. Through a mixed-methods approach involving case studies, platform analysis, and user interviews, the research identifies key drivers behind the rise of LCNC tools, such as reduced development time, lower costs, and enhanced accessibility. The paper also investigates the broader implications for organizations, including shifts in workforce dynamics, the democratization of innovation, and challenges related to scalability and governance. Ultimately, this study highlights the transformative potential of LCNC development in bridging the gap between technical and non-technical users, fostering a more inclusive digital innovation ecosystem.

Introduction

Overview

In the face of a growing shortage of professional developers, Low-Code/No-Code (LCNC) platforms have emerged to meet the rising demand for digital solutions. These platforms use visual programming, drag-and-drop interfaces, and pre-built components, enabling non-technical users—such as business professionals, educators, and entrepreneurs—to build applications without writing code.

Literature Insights

• The LCNC movement aims to democratize software development, making it accessible beyond traditional IT departments.

• Research highlights their benefits in rapid prototyping, cost-efficiency, and empowerment of "citizen developers".

• However, concerns persist regarding scalability, security, governance, and technical limitations.

Problem Statement

While LCNC tools are popular and promise inclusivity in app development, there's a lack of clear understanding around:

• How effective they truly are in practice

• The risks of non-technical users managing complex apps

• Their long-term impact on traditional development workflows

Methodology

A mixed-methods approach was used:

1. Literature Review and Platform Analysis (e.g., Bubble, OutSystems, Power Apps)

2. Surveys with non-developer users (50+ participants)

3. In-depth Interviews and Case Studies (5–10 participants)

Data was analyzed through statistics and thematic coding, with ethical considerations including consent and anonymity.

Key Findings

A. Accessibility & Usability

• 82% of users found LCNC tools intuitive and easy to learn.

• Users created real-world apps (e.g., inventory systems) within weeks, showing high usability.

B. Application Effectiveness

• 75% of applications were in active use.

• Benefits include reduced dependency on developers and faster solution delivery.

• 28% of users faced scaling issues and performance limitations.

C. Organizational Adoption

• Adoption is mostly informal and bottom-up, often bypassing IT departments.

• This leads to risks like shadow IT, data fragmentation, and lack of governance.

D. Platform Limitations

• Key challenges:

  • Limited customization

  • Poor integration with external systems

  • No access to underlying code

  • Vendor lock-in concerns

Conclusion

This study examined the growing adoption of Low-Code and No-Code (LCNC) web development platforms and their role in empowering non-developers to participate meaningfully in the creation of digital solutions. The research findings confirm that LCNC tools have significantly lowered the technical barriers to application development, allowing individuals without formal programming experience to design and deploy functional web applications with ease and speed. However, the study also revealed important limitations and challenges, including issues related to scalability, system integration, governance, and long-term maintainability. While LCNC platforms offer remarkable flexibility for prototyping and small-scale deployment, they may not always meet the requirements of complex, enterprise-level applications without professional oversight and support. In conclusion, LCNC platforms represent a transformative shift in the software development landscape, fostering a more inclusive and innovative digital environment. To maximize their potential, it is essential for organizations to establish clear governance practices, provide appropriate training, and support collaboration between technical and non-technical users. Future research should continue to evaluate the evolving capabilities of LCNC tools and explore their long-term impact on software engineering practices and workforce development

References

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Copyright

Copyright © 2025 Jitendra Kumar Das. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.