Tag: web development

What are no code platforms?

Posted on by marg
Reading Time: 2 minutes

Image of computer coding on a desk

What are no code platforms?

In the last 2 – 3 years there’s been a large emergence in what are called “no code” tools in the online world.

What is “no code”, and what are those platforms?

The term “no code” refers to tools and platforms a person can use that accomplish something online without the need to use code. The no-code movement is meant to allow a high amount of flexibility and customization fo non-developers.

What can “no code” tools and platforms accomplish?

These days, just about anything! Whether it’s a content creator looking to build a simple blog, to a startup company creating a complex app, there’s more and more solutions everyday that allow the average person to bring their vision to life without any programming experience.

What are some examples of “no code” tools?

Some of the most popular no-code tools out there, you are probably already very familiar with. Here are a few very popular companies dedicated to creating products and resources that can be usable by nearly everyone.

  • Shopify — build your own e-commerce website
  • Squarespace — build and deploy your own website
  • Bubble — create a custom app from scratch
  • Zapier — connect a bunch of different platforms together, and allow information to be transferred from one to another automatically with prompts
  • And many more…

Will “no code” mean the end of developers?

No way! In this movement, we need developers more than ever. Developers won’t go away, but their roles will begin to change dramatically. My prediction is we will no longer need web developers to build websites, stores, and online program portals, but rather developers will take on more of a role to build the tools that people can use to build these things themselves.

This also opens up a whole other industry of “technical consultants/advisors” who know these tools inside and out, and will act as a guide for their clients to navigate and configure no-code systems, because no matter what there will always be a large number of people who want to contract this work out, instead of navigating this landscape alone.

Get ready for the world of no-code, it’s exciting and accelerating quickly, so get on board!

Want to learn more about no-code platforms? Check out my course page here.

Margaret

Photo by Alexandru Acea on Unsplash

Are Shopify Themes a One-time Purchase?

Posted on by marg
Reading Time: < 1 minute

Yes!

Shopify themes are a one time purchase, and many themes can be used on more than one shop. However, be sure to check the terms and conditions of your theme because you don’t want to accidentally violate them, and have your store shut down as a result.

Tips for purchasing a theme:

  • Chose one from a reputable source. The Shopify Marketplace vets all the themes that are sold there, so you can be sure it’s high quality. Another great source is a company called “Out of The Sandbox“. They have premium themes, and amazing support.
  • Pick one that has a navigation and homepage layout that you like. These are the most unique parts about shops, so make sure it’s something you love. The collection pages and the single product pages are fairly standard throughout all Shopify sites, so make sure you pick one that has a strong navigation and home page to make your brand come alive.
  • Check the mobile version of the demo. Mobile usage has taken over online shopping, so be sure that the template you want looks  good on mobile!

Finally, make it your own! So many themes are pulled straight from the box and slapped up with the default colours and fonts. Hiring a designer to go over your theme and make some professional adjustments can make a world of difference.

Next, let those sales roll in!

xo,

Marg