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Dynamics Matters Podcast Ep 116: Why Power Platform and low-code doesn't mean low-value
With Special guest Ben Coleman, Business Development Manager, HSO
In this episode, we discuss:
✔ The impact of the low-code citizen developer
✔ The benefits of citizen developers
✔ The role of the centre of excellence
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SoundCloud Why Power Platform and low-code doesn't mean low-value
Low-code application development is widespread. Easy and quick to upskill, and inexpensive to deploy, it delivers significant business value. At the centre of this value is the role of the ‘citizen developer’. Individuals in a business who are not traditional IT professionals but have the ability to create applications using platforms like Microsoft Power Platform to address specific challenges.
The impact of the low-code citizen developer
What does having individuals outside of IT engaged on application development mean for the business? There are certainly risks associated with citizen-developed applications, however, having a structured approach and implementing policies can mitigate these risks. Increase emphasis on involving non-technical users in the development process, aligning technology with the needs of the business, and integrating AI technology into low-code development for enhanced business value. Linking lo-code development with AI is a natural progression in revolutionising industries, yet this too emphasises the need for careful planning and consideration of security aspects when adopting AI technology within low-code development.
Finding a role for the low-code citizen developer
There is significant untapped value in low-code ‘citizen developers’. For example, the diverse backgrounds from which they emerge, lends itself to being able to apply solutions to more worldly experiences. Real-world solutions to solve real-world problems.
However, there remains a need to instil and maintain a structured approach to managing citizen-developed applications, addressing concerns about potential risks and the importance of implementing a centre of excellence to ensure the quality and security of applications. It’s also important, as part of guiding non-technical users in the development process, to align technology with business needs, and leveraging AI technology for process optimisation and competitive advantage.
This said, maintain careful adoption of AI technology within low-code development, setting up processes for proper planning, information architecture, security considerations, and collaboration with organisations already familiar with AI implementation.
With the ever-evolving landscape of technology in business, there is a need for careful planning, security considerations, and collaboration with experienced organisations for the successful adoption of AI within low-code development. Structured management and strategic integration will unlock the potential of the Power Platform by using of AI technology for enhanced business outcomes.
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The benefits of citizen developers
The potential benefits of allowing non-technical employees to create applications using low-code platforms like Power Platform include increased innovation and problem-solving within the organisation. Non-technical employees are often the ones closest to the business problems that need to be solved, so empowering them to create applications can lead to more tailored and effective solutions. Additionally, it can lead to faster development and deployment of applications, as these employees can directly address their own needs without relying on traditional IT processes.
However, there are also challenges associated with this approach. One of the main challenges is the risk of creating applications that are not developed correctly, leading to potential security and compatibility issues. It's important to have a structured approach to managing these applications, including proper review processes and a center of excellence to mitigate these risks. Additionally, there is a need for clear policies and guidelines to ensure that the applications meet the organisation's standards and criteria. Overall, while there are potential benefits to allowing non-technical employees to create applications using low-code platforms, it's essential to carefully manage the process to minimise the associated risks.
The role of the centre of excellence
To effectively manage the quality and security of applications developed by citizen developers using low-code platforms, organisations should establish a structured process for managing the development and release of these applications. This includes implementing policies and guidelines for development, reviewing and testing the applications before release, and ensuring they meet the organisation's security and quality standards.
Additionally, organisations should provide training and support for citizen developers to ensure they understand the importance of security and quality in application development. Leveraging a center of excellence and involving IT teams in the review process can also help mitigate risks and ensure that the applications are developed correctly. Lastly, organisations should prioritise security and access rights, and consider leveraging AI to enhance security measures and identify potential vulnerabilities in the applications.
The role of the citizen developer in successful technology adoption
Involving non-technical users in the process of building apps using low-code platforms is significant for several reasons. Firstly, are the ones who are closest to the problems that the business is trying to solve and are in direct contact with customers and systems. This proximity allows them to identify and understand the specific challenges and needs that the apps should address.
Additionally, involving non-technical users in the app-building process can contribute to successful adoption within an organisation by promoting a business-led approach to technology. This approach ensures that the apps developed are aligned with the organisation's goals and requirements, as they are created by individuals who have a deep understanding of the business processes and challenges.
Furthermore, empowering non-technical users to create apps using low-code platforms can lead to increased innovation and agility within the organisation. These users can quickly prototype and develop solutions to address specific business needs without being dependent on the IT department, thereby accelerating the delivery of valuable applications.
Overall, involving non-technical users in the app-building process using low-code platforms can lead to more tailored and effective solutions, promote a business-led approach to technology, and foster innovation and agility within the organisation.