by Jacek Korneluk

As our world becomes increasingly technological and digital, the divide between coding and non-coding people is growing.

On the other hand, low-code or no-code technologies and plugins like Advance Data Analytics bridge the gap and soften the differences.

In my humble opinion knowing how to code traditional, old-school way and using algorithms to write code on your behalf, differ. So, differentiate a mindset behind an ordinary non-technical internet user and a dedicated, professional coder.

(By the way, I am unfortunately a non-coder but with a strong desire for coding. What a pity! I began my journey of learning Python but never reached a practical level of proficiency.)

So, back to the topic.

With so much of our lives happening online nowadays, there are definite advantages and disadvantages for each group of codding and non-coding personas when browsing and interacting on the internet with the platforms.

For coding people, the main advantage is an enhanced understanding of how the online world functions. Coders have insight into the underlying architecture of websites, apps, algorithms, and the IT ecosystem. They usually understand the technical side of computer networking, handshaking, protocols, ports, and all the “layer stuff” hidden under the bonnet. This gives them the knowledge that the average non-tech user usually and statistically lacks.

Because of that fact, coders can more easily spot security flaws, detect bugs, or customise digital experiences to suit their needs. Their skills allow them to build new tools, automate tasks, and optimise their online activities. Coding abilities lend themselves to more active and charactered participation.

However, for some coders, this behind-the-scenes deep understanding can diminish their user experience. Having expertise in the Internet’s inner workings may detract from its magic.

Hyper-awareness of systems and mechanics can make online immersion less seamless. It is a bit like an anatomopathologist may look sometimes at an overall beautiful human body. I am a pathology guy so, forgive me for the spicy metaphorical exemplar.

For non-coders, the internet still retains a sense of expansive possibility and discovery. Without knowledge of the technical constraints, they browse with fewer “parti pris” preconceived notions. This “naivete” allows for more fun, creativity, and fantasy.

It is a bit like with Artificial Intelligence and LLM ‘s when you are prompting a model setting up the temperature to 0.75. The more improvisation allowed the more creativity and fun expected. Restricting outcomes with precise “technicality” may lead to perfectness but the outcome may be boring.

Apparently, non-coding people avoid the frustration that can come with too much understanding. When flaws and limitations are obvious but unchangeable, it can lead to annoyance or hopping madness if uncontrolled.

Non-coders sidestep this irritation and instead interact with digital tools as they are presented. Their expectations align better with reality. Simplicity, practicality, and straightforwardness benefit their user experience.

However, a lack of coding skills can also limit possibilities. Non-coders must use technology as it is rather than customising or bending it to optimise for their needs. They have less autonomy, less cyberfreedom, and consequently fewer choices when going online.

Non-coders depend more wholly on apps and platforms to provide satisfactory versions for their use. They usually cannot build new digital solutions even if current options are inadequate. This may force them to work within the constraints set by coders. At least in the theory, remember more and more serious low-code and no-code solutions are coming!

For coders, that constraint is freedom. Their abilities allow them to manipulate technology to best serve their intentions. Coders can craft highly specific, helpful tools instead of relying on broad offerings. If they cannot find suitable software or resources, they may invent their own. This mandate supports greater creativity, productivity, and innovation.

But taken too far, that freedom could also lead coders down unproductive rabbit holes. Temptation looms for too ambitious digital projects that may never be useful or complete.

Furthermore, prioritising personalised digital solutions over the adoption of common tools comes with some disadvantages too. Too much customisation loses out on the benefits of widespread platforms. So, while their capabilities are impressive, coders must maintain discipline regarding practical applications.

In the end, both coding and non-coding skill sets have strong merits when interacting online. The ideal scenario may be a fusion of the two domains – users informed enough to deeply engage with technology, but not so expert that the sense of digital discovery is lost.

With coding becoming an increasingly crucial skill, mastering this equilibrium becomes even more vital, and we must compassionately bridge the knowledge gaps it can create.

Coders approach the internet with a builder’s mindset. They see the web as a flexible tool that can be customised and optimised. Coders understand the underlying architecture of websites and are skilled at manipulating code to improve digital experiences. They have an intrinsic motivation to tinker, experiment, and create. The internet represents possibilities – a digital playground where coders can bring their ideas to life.

In contrast, non-coders relate to the internet as a consumer. They utilise the web’s ready-made tools without adjusting or building them. Non-coders take sites and platforms as finished products, interacting with them as presented. They do not consider changing or circumventing built-in features and limits. What you see is what you get.

The increasing adoption of low-code and no-code tools is set to have a substantial impact and potentially disrupt the landscape.

Originally published at https://spektrumlab.io on December 9, 2023.