By: Yusufzai Khan, Associate Vice President - LCI - Low Code & Integration

Software development has evolved remarkably over the past few decades. From the days of traditional, code-intensive practices to the rise of low code/no code platforms that allow virtually anyone to build functional applications, the landscape has undergone a significant transformation. Now with the rise of generative AI, software development is becoming faster, more accessible, and increasingly automated.

The era of traditional development was characterized by writing every line of code manually—a labor-intensive process that demanded a high level of expertise. As technology progressed, automation tools and low code platforms began simplifying these tasks, enabling businesses to streamline their operations and innovate faster. But what does this mean for developers, businesses, and industries at large? As these tools grow in sophistication, one might ask; “Is traditional coding a thing of the past? Or are we simply entering a new age of software development, where the developers and AI collaborate to create faster and more innovative solutions?”

Software revolution: transforming industries worldwide

Marc Lowell Andreessen’s 2011 assertion that “software will eat the world¹” was more than just a  bold prediction—it highlighted the transformative power of software in reshaping industries and society. From retail and healthcare to transportation and finance, software has been a driving force behind some of the most transformative innovations in recent history.

Industries like logistics, banking, and healthcare have benefited from this digital disruption. Amazon remodeled e-commerce, Uber redefined urban transportation, and Netflix transformed media consumption. These companies didn’t just leverage software; they built ecosystems around it, using technology to create entirely new ways of doing business.

This dominance underscores software isn’t just a tool, it’s the backbone of modern innovation.

The shift from traditional coding to low code platforms

The rise of low code platforms marked a significant milestone in software development. The mantra “low code will eat software” captured the essence of this transformation. These platforms democratized development, enabling businesses and individuals with minimal technical expertise to build enterprise-grade applications faster and more cost-effectively.

Unlike traditional coding, which requires intricate syntax and deep programming knowledge, low code platforms offer visual development environments. These allow users to design workflows, drag and drop elements, and connect systems effortlessly.

Popular platforms like Microsoft Power Platform, Pega, Appian, Mendix, and OutSystems support a wide range of applications, from business process automation to mobile and web development.

Low code platforms provide an easier path for business users with little or no programming knowledge to build software solutions. Beyond faster deployment, they enable rapid prototyping, allowing organizations to respond to market changes swiftly and at a lower cost than traditional coding. These platforms also streamline workflows, empowering teams to create customized tools without heavy reliance on IT departments.

Gen AI-powered low code platforms

As low code platforms matured, the integration of generative AI became the next logical step. Gen AI, an advanced language model, is poised to become an integral part of low code platforms, further accelerating the development process.

Imagine a scenario where you can develop a fully functional enterprise-grade application on a low code platform without writing a single line of code, simply by feeding requirements in plain English. This is no longer a distant dream, but a reality that is being shaped by platforms like Pega Blueprint. By integrating Gen AI, these low code platforms can understand and translate natural language (NLP) requirements into executable codes, making the development process even more intuitive and accessible.

The journey from code to low code to Gen AI-powered low code has made the job of developers easier. Further several organizations, businesses, and individuals are also utilizing its breathtaking benefits. Jeff Bezos, the Executive Chairman of Amazon said “we are at the beginning of a Golden age of AI”².

New-age businesses are now blending traditional coding with low code platforms. This is done to build scalable and efficient applications while utilizing Gen AI to streamline and enhance the development process. This convergence allows software developers to use each tool to its fullest potential. It combines the customization of coding with the accessibility of low-code and the efficiency of AI.

Low code AI  platforms showcase the best of the two worlds that will bring benefits to the organization and its workforce. These include:

1. Enhanced productivity: By automating repetitive tasks, developers can focus on innovation and high-impact work.
2. Faster time-to-market: Organizations can deploy applications in record time, staying ahead of competitors.
3. Cost efficiency: Automating coding tasks and reducing reliance on technical expertise lowers expenses significantly.
4. Broader accessibility: With AI simplifying workflows, even non-technical stakeholders can contribute meaningfully to projects.

The amalgamation of these technologies has led to a shift in team dynamics, where:

1. Traditional and new-age developers and AI systems are working together, making the workplace more engaging
2. Project managers are leveraging these tools to reduce development cycles, enhance collaboration, and encourage a more innovative and flexible development process.

This synergy has empowered organizations to adapt quickly to evolving market needs, focusing on value-driven innovation rather than simply meeting deadlines.

Conclusion

The journey from manual coding to low code to Gen AI-powered low code platforms reflects how technology continually reshapes how we create, innovate, and solve problems. While the foundation stone was laid by traditional coding, low code platforms opened the door for a broader range of users to participate in the development process. Today, low code AI-powered platforms help enhance productivity and creativity, aiding developers solve complex problems faster and pushing the boundaries of greater possibilities.

The advancements in technology not only represent an evolution in software development but also a shift in the way we think about creating and using technology. As we look to the future, one thing is clear: adaptability will be key. Organizations and developers that embrace these advancements will not only stay competitive but will also lead the way in shaping the future of software and technology.

Citations

¹ Why Software Is Eating the World, Marc Andreessen

² We’re at the beginning of a golden age of AI: Jeff Bezos, January 19, 2019