"The Most Disruptive Trend Of 2021: No Code / Low Code: Explaining WCAG principles"

"The Most Disruptive Trend Of 2021: No Code / Low Code: Explaining WCAG principles"

In the ever-evolving world of technology, there are certain trends that emerge and disrupt entire industries. One such trend that has been gaining momentum in 2021 is the rise of no code and low code software. This trend has the potential to revolutionize the way we develop and create software applications, and it is important to understand the essence of this disruptive movement.

At its core, the concept of no code and low code software revolves around the emergence of a new class of software "assemblers" rather than traditional software "developers". In the past, developing software required a deep understanding of programming languages and intricate coding skills. However, with the advent of no code and low code platforms, individuals with little to no coding experience can now create functional software applications.

This shift in the software industry has brought about significant changes in three important areas: embedded velocity, cost, and accessibility. Let's delve deeper into each of these aspects to understand the impact of no code and low code software.

Embedded Velocity: Traditionally, software development has been a time-consuming process. It involved writing lines of code, debugging, and testing, which could take weeks or even months to complete. However, with no code and low code software, the development process is significantly faster. These platforms offer pre-built components and drag-and-drop interfaces, allowing users to assemble software applications quickly. This embedded velocity enables businesses to develop and iterate their software products at a much faster pace, ultimately leading to increased productivity and efficiency.

Cost: Developing software from scratch can be a costly endeavor. Hiring experienced developers, setting up infrastructure, and maintaining software can quickly add up to significant expenses. No code and low code software provide a more cost-effective alternative. By eliminating the need for extensive coding expertise, businesses can save on development costs. Additionally, these platforms often offer subscription-based pricing models, which further reduces upfront expenses. This affordability makes software development accessible to a wider range of individuals and organizations, leveling the playing field for innovation.

Accessibility: One of the key principles of web accessibility is ensuring that web content is understandable and robust. The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) outline specific guidelines for achieving these principles. When it comes to understandability, web content should be readable and predictable. This means using plain language, clear and straightforward body copy, short paragraphs, organized information, and a conversational tone. By following these best practices, websites can ensure that their content is easily comprehensible to a wide range of users.

In terms of robustness, web content should be compatible and written with valid and clean HTML code. This ensures that the content can be accessed and understood by different devices and assistive technologies. By adhering to these guidelines, websites can create a more inclusive online experience for all users, regardless of their abilities.

In conclusion, the rise of no code and low code software is undoubtedly one of the most disruptive trends of 2021. It has transformed the software development landscape by empowering individuals with limited coding skills to create functional applications. This trend has brought about changes in embedded velocity, cost, and accessibility. Businesses can now develop software at a faster pace, reduce development costs, and ensure that their web content is understandable and robust.

To embrace this trend and make the most of it, here are three actionable pieces of advice:

1. Embrace no code and low code platforms: Explore the various no code and low code platforms available in the market and identify the ones that align with your business needs. Experiment with these platforms to understand their capabilities and leverage their pre-built components to accelerate your software development process.

2. Prioritize accessibility: Ensure that your web content adheres to the WCAG guidelines for understandability and robustness. Use plain language, clear and concise copy, and valid HTML code to make your content accessible to a wider audience. By prioritizing accessibility, you not only comply with legal obligations but also create a more inclusive and user-friendly experience for all.

3. Foster a culture of innovation: No code and low code software present an opportunity to democratize software development and foster innovation within your organization. Encourage employees with diverse backgrounds and skill sets to explore these platforms and contribute their ideas. By embracing a culture of innovation, you can unlock the full potential of no code and low code software and drive growth for your business.

In conclusion, the disruptive trend of no code and low code software is transforming the software development landscape. With its embedded velocity, cost-effectiveness, and focus on accessibility, this trend has the potential to revolutionize the way we create and develop software applications. By embracing this trend, prioritizing accessibility, and fostering a culture of innovation, businesses can stay ahead of the curve and harness the power of no code and low code software for their success.