AI & Low-Code/No-Code Tools: Reshaping the Workforce (2024 & Beyond)

Beyond Traditional Coding: The Future of Software Development with No Code and Low Code

The recent breakthrough in artificial intelligence (AI) is already making waves across the globe. Big companies are rapidly adopting generative AI tools and replacing existing tools and resource methods.

The potential impact extends far beyond, with these tools capable of coding websites, generating user interfaces, and performing a wide range of tasks.

It's time to reevaluate the role of traditional tools and consider how this AI revolution might ripple across other industries and technologies.

Low-code/no-code tools are hardly "a decade-back technology." They bridge the gap between technical and non-technical people, They've undergone explosive growth, with a current market size of over $20 billion and a projected $32 billion by 2024, with an impressive CAGR of 26.1%.

However, the rise of AI raises an intriguing question: Will AI become a catalyst for LCNC (low-code no-code) adoption, or will it act as a competitor, slowing down their growth?

In the wake of the AI revolution, many existing technologies face a critical crossroads. LCNC also sits at a curious intersection. On the one hand, AI could significantly enhance its capabilities.

On the other hand, AI could also pose a challenge. If AI platforms reach a point where they can build simple applications without any coding at all, it could encroach upon LCNC's core territory. Businesses might then opt for pure AI solutions over LCNC platforms.

The future of LCNC in this AI-driven world remains to be seen. This blog will explore how low code no code tools will go in sync with AI tools and the upcoming changes in the low code no code industry in 2024.

Skip the lines with our no-code and low-code solutions. Build faster, deploy simpler, save costs. Drop us a message and let our team help with your project.

What is a no-code/low-code tool?

No-code and low-code tools are combined approaches that democratize software development. No-code tools enable anyone, even without coding knowledge, to create applications using visual interfaces and pre-built components. However, they offer less control over deep functionality.

Low-code tools, on the other hand, empower developers to rapidly build applications by using code alongside pre-built tools and features, streamlining the development process.

By definition, both approaches provide intuitive environments that significantly reduce the complexity and effort required to develop application components and features. This makes them valuable tools in the current era, where rapid development is crucial for business survival and success in a rapidly digitizing world.

The Future of No Code and Low Code Tools in 2024

According to Gartner's report, over 65% of internal business applications are projected to be developed using low code by 2024.

The combined no-code and low-code market is expected to exceed $36 billion by 2027, driven primarily by the increasing demand for agility, the rise of citizen developers, and the persistent shortage of qualified IT professionals.

As per the No-Code Census 2020 report, application development is up to 4.6x faster, 4.6x more affordable, and 4.8x easier when using low-code/no-code (LCNC) platforms.

Bridging the Skills Gap

NCLC tools were conceived with the thought of replacing traditional development tools and software developers and empowering businesses to build apps without needing deep infrastructure knowledge.

However, instead of replacing developers, these tools have proven valuable by speeding up development processes and fostering collaboration between developers, non-developers, and managers.

Today, NCLC technologies are increasingly popular and help organizations tackle the shortage of skilled IT professionals. They bridge the gap between available skills and required development capabilities.

DevOps with Low-code and no-code platforms

From a DevOps standpoint, low-code and no-code introduce a paradoxical situation: more consistent workflows yet less granular control over the underlying code.

These platforms generate code based on pre-defined models, leading to standardized testing and deployment processes, especially for no-code solutions. This consistency simplifies DevOps but comes at the expense of application-specific customization.

Low Code and No Code Trend in 2024

The major trend we'll see is the integration of AI with no-code and low-code tools. This will allow developers to build AI applications and integrate them with existing tools.

This empowers developers to achieve more by leveraging the power of AI without getting bogged down in complex coding. Additionally, several other trends are emerging, as listed below.

The relationship between AI and no-code/low-code is likely one of mutual growth and co-evolution. AI will expand the capabilities and accessibility of these tools, while no-code/low-code platforms will democratize AI development and accelerate its adoption across various sectors.

1. Accelerated Adoption

The future of software development appears bright for Low-Code No-Code (LCNC) platforms, with their explosive growth trajectory expected to continue. This surge is primarily fueled by the critical shortage of skilled developers, forcing organizations to seek alternative solutions. LCNC platforms offer a promising avenue, enabling rapid development and deployment even without extensive coding expertise.

2. Citizen Development

The rapid digital transformation is pushing organizations towards low-code development platforms. As Varsha Mehta, Senior Market Research Specialist at Gartner, points out, these tools empower businesses to deploy custom applications and automate workflows with minimal coding.

These technologies also enable organizations to leverage the skills of both professional developers and citizen developers, allowing businesses to keep pace with the ever-growing demand for new applications. Additionally, this collaborative approach can lead to more creative outputs from the entire team."

3. Integration with Artificial Intelligence

Low-code platforms are bridging the gap between AI accessibility and business needs. By seamlessly integrating pre-built AI models and components, companies of all sizes can now leverage intelligent automation, data-driven insights, and streamlined development.

Drag-and-drop functionality replaces complex coding, empowering citizen developers and IT professionals alike to build intelligent applications. Repetitive tasks become automated, freeing up resources for higher-value initiatives.

Data analysis transforms from arduous processes to effortless discovery, revealing hidden patterns and informing insightful decisions.

Ultimately, low-code AI democratizes the power of artificial intelligence, enabling faster development cycles, reduced costs, and enhanced user experiences. Businesses can now unlock the potential of AI without technical barriers, propelling innovation and agility across every department.

4. Cloud-Native Focus

Cloud-native programs offer unprecedented scalability, allowing businesses to quickly and easily scale their offerings as needed. But building a cloud-native program can be a daunting task for many developers.

That’s where low-code solutions come in! Let us understand how low code supports a cloud-native program.LCNC platforms will increasingly embrace cloud-native architectures, enabling scalability, flexibility, and seamless deployment in cloud environments.

5. Industry-Specific Solutions

One of the most exciting trends in 2024 will be the emergence of industry-specific LCNC solutions. Gone are the days of one-size-fits-all platforms.

Instead, expect to see tools designed for the unique needs and challenges of healthcare, finance, manufacturing, retail, and beyond. Imagine healthcare platforms pre-loaded with HIPAA compliance features, or manufacturing solutions with built-in production line monitoring.

This targeted approach will unlock new possibilities for efficiency and innovation within each industry.

The following are other Key Trends:

Hyperautomation

Low-code/no-code (LCNC) platforms are poised to become a driving force behind hyperautomation, a trend pushing organizations to automate an ever-increasing array of processes and workflows.

Beyond simple tasks, LCNC will empower even non-technical individuals to automate complex activities, from data analysis and report generation to customer service interactions and supply chain management.

This widespread automation will free up human workers to focus on higher-level tasks, boosting efficiency, productivity, and innovation.

Composable Applications

Imagine constructing software not with bricks and mortar but with pre-built, ready-to-assemble components. This is the world of composable applications enabled by LCNC.

Instead of lengthy custom development, businesses can rapidly stitch together pre-existing functionalities to create tailored applications, adapting to changing needs with unprecedented agility.

Think of it as digital Legos, empowering everyone to become an app builder.

Integration with Legacy Systems

No organization exists in a vacuum, and many grapple with aging IT infrastructure. LCNC platforms are stepping up to offer seamless integration with legacy systems, eliminating the need for costly rip-and-replace projects.

By acting as a bridge between the old and the new, LCNC enables organizations to modernize their IT landscape gradually, leveraging the power of modern tools while preserving the value of existing investments.

Frustrated with slow development? Tired of bloated coding costs? We're the top-rated No-Code/Low-Code development company. Cut through the complexity and contact us today for a free consultation.

Conclusion

The rapid development of AI visual interfaces and intuitive design tools is revolutionizing application development. These tools have the potential to replace complex coding with drag-and-drop functionality, empowering non-technical "citizen developers" to build and deploy applications with ease.

The rise of low-code platforms provides a user-friendly environment to streamline this process, making software development accessible to a wider audience.

While prominent low-code solutions existed before, the integration of machine learning capabilities compatible with these tools marks a significant shift.

We are now witnessing a surge in options, empowering businesses and individuals to leverage AI alongside intuitive development tools and democratizing the creation of powerful applications.

FAQ

No-code tools let anyone, even without coding knowledge, build applications using visual interfaces and pre-built components. They offer less control over deep functionality. Low-code tools empower developers to rapidly build applications by using code alongside pre-built tools, streamlining the development process. Both significantly reduce complexity and effort compared to traditional coding.

No, AI and LCNC are more likely to co-evolve. AI will enhance LCNC capabilities and accessibility, while LCNC platforms will democratize AI development and accelerate its adoption. Think of AI as a powerful companion tool, not a replacement.

Faster development, lower costs, easier collaboration, and bridging the developer skill gap are some key benefits. You can create apps without needing extensive coding expertise, empowering both citizen developers and IT professionals.

Integration with AI, accelerated adoption, growth of citizen development, digital transformation, cloud-native focus, industry-specific solutions, hyperautomation, composable applications, and seamless integration with legacy systems are some key trends to watch in 2024 and beyond.

Hitesh Umaletiya

Co-founder of Brilworks. As technology futurists, we love helping startups turn their ideas into reality. Our expertise spans startups to SMEs, and we're dedicated to their success.

Get In Touch