Is your business looking for ways to innovate faster without stretching your IT team thin? You're not alone. Lots of companies are turning to Low Code/No Code (LCNC) platforms to accelerate development and empower non-technical staff. Recently, I had the pleasure of speaking at a fantastic webinar featuring two industry superstars Kathy Durfee, and moderator Michelle Pruitt. They shared some awesome insights that I think you'll find valuable.
Why Low-Code/No-Code Matters
First off, let's talk about what LCNC platforms are. Think of them as tools that let you build apps without needing to write complex code. Platforms like Microsoft PowerApps and Salesforce offer drag-and-drop features and pre-built templates, making it easier for anyone in your organization to develop solutions quickly.
Key Takeaways from the Webinar
- For Small and Medium Businesses (SMBs):
Kathy Durfee, the CEO and founder of TechHouse, emphasized how LCNC platforms are transforming SMBs. Many of these businesses don’t have dedicated IT departments and may rely on outsourced MSPs. LCNC tools empower technical team members, those with a natural technical inclination, to build customized solutions that meet specific business needs. For example, an operations manager could streamline a workflow without having to wait weeks for external IT support.
- For Enterprises:
(I) Dee Dee Walsh from Growth Acceleration Partners (GAP) talked about the enterprise side of things. Big companies often face significant IT backlogs, and LCNC platforms help alleviate this pressure. By enabling departments to develop their own solutions within a controlled environment, enterprises can reduce what's known as "shadow IT"—when employees use unauthorized tools because official channels are too slow.
Measuring Low-Code/No-Code ROI and Business Impact
Okay, so LCNC platforms sound great, but how do you measure their return on investment?
- Speed to Market:
Both Kathy and I emphasized that one of the most immediate benefits is the speed at which you can develop and deploy applications. Gartner even predicts that over 65% of all app development will be done using LCNC platforms by 2024.
- Cost Savings:
By reducing the need for specialized developers, you're not just saving time—you’re saving money. Plus, with quicker development cycles, you can adapt to market changes faster than ever.
- Employee Empowerment:
When your team feels empowered to solve problems independently, morale goes up. This not only boosts productivity but also fosters a culture of innovation.
Challenges to Keep in Mind
Of course, it's not all smooth sailing. Security is a significant concern. Both of us stressed the importance of having robust security measures in place. It's crucial to involve your IT department in setting up governance policies to ensure that the ease of development doesn't compromise your company's data.
Best Practices for Getting Started with LCNC Platforms
If you're considering diving into the LCNC world, here are some tips based on the webinar:
- Start Small:
Begin with a pilot project to test the waters. This allows you to demonstrate value quickly without committing significant resources upfront.
- Involve Your Team:
Get both technical and non-technical staff involved early. Their feedback will be invaluable in tailoring the platform to meet your specific needs.
- Think Long-Term:
While LCNC platforms can offer quick wins, it's essential to consider their long-term impact on your IT infrastructure to avoid technical debt down the line.
Ready to Learn More?
There's so much more that was covered in the webinar—real-world examples, detailed strategies, and even a Q&A session where common concerns were addressed. If you're serious about leveraging LCNC platforms to drive business growth, I highly recommend watching the full discussion.
Don't Miss Out
This is a golden opportunity to get insights from industry veterans who have been there and done that. Whether you're an SMB looking to streamline operations or an enterprise aiming to reduce IT backlogs, LCNC platforms could be the key to unlocking your business's full potential.
👉 Watch the Webinar with me, Michelle Pruitt, and Kathy Durfee Now!
🎥 Click Here to Access the Webinar
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About the Speakers
- Kathy Durfee: As the CEO and founder of TechHouse, Kathy has been helping SMBs implement innovative tech solutions since 1995. She's a strong advocate for diversity in tech and is committed to creating opportunities for underrepresented groups in STEM.
- Dee Dee Walsh: With a rich career that includes 21 years at Microsoft and roles in startups like Mobilize.Net, Dee Dee currently leads developer marketing and business development at Growth Acceleration Partners. She's passionate about technology, skiing, and donuts
- Michelle Pruitt: Michelle Pruitt, commonly known as "Pruitt," is a Director of Engineering Strategy and Planning at Microsoft, leading technological innovations. Recognized for her sharp insights into AI's nexus with neurocuriosity™, her contributions have been celebrated on the TEDx platform. She is a fervent advocate for AI's strategic evolution and the future workforce as a force of personal and professional empowerment. Pruitt leverages her significant corporate achievements as a sought-after executive coach and advisor to Career Climb, championing women in tech. Committed to data ownership and privacy, Pruitt is a board advisor to Women in Cloud working to shape industry standards, safeguard user rights, and promote ethical tech practices. Additionally, Pruitt makes her mark in the entertainment sphere as an executive movie producer.