Started by: FrustratedManager | Dec 2024
Boss wants me to build automation workflows but I'm not a programmer. He keeps talking about "no-code platforms" where you can build stuff without coding.
Sounds too good to be true? Anyone actually using these successfully? Or is this just for making simple stuff while real automation still needs developers?
Reply by: CitizenDeveloper_Lisa
I use Zenphi for our Google Workspace automation and its genuinely good. No coding required - its all drag and drop visual interface. Low-code and no-code platforms let users create business automation solutions without deep understanding of coding due to visual interfaces.
Built automated approval workflows, invoice processing, employee onboarding processes. Some limitations but for business processes its perfect.
Reply by: OldSchoolCoder
As a developer for 15 years, im mixed on no-code platforms. They're great for simple workflows but once you need something custom or complex, you hit a wall fast.
Also, these platforms lock you in. If vendor raises prices or shuts down, your screwed because everything built on their proprietary system. With real code, you own it.
That said, for non-technical people doing basic automation, they work fine. Just know the limitations.
Reply by: ITDirector_Mike
We rolled out Power Automate across our organization last year. Results been impressive - business users created over 200 automations without bothering IT department.
The key thing: By 2025, organizations are expected to build 70% of their new technology products and services using low or no-code platforms. This is clear trend, not a fad.
Does it replace developers? No. But it frees them up to work on complex stuff instead of building basic workflows all day.
Reply by: FrustratedManager
This is encouraging! Which platform you guys recommend for someone starting out? Looking at:
Zapier
Make (formerly Integromat)
Power Automate
Zenphi
Budget is concern so preferably something with free tier to test.
Reply by: CitizenDeveloper_Lisa
Zapier easiest to start with, has lots of pre-built connectors. Power Automate if your already in Microsoft ecosystem.
Make is more powerful but steeper learning curve. Zenphi specifically great if you use Google Workspace.
All have free tiers, so test couple of them and see what clicks for you.
