What is no-code

The term no-code represents a philosophy of software design. It's goal is to empower non-technical users to create their own applications and automations. Put another way, it means giving power usually reserved for software developers to everyone else.

There are lots of tools emerging that follow this trend. They range from simple web forms to enterprise-level platforms. What they have in common is a visual user interface that shields the user from working with raw software syntax (e.g., XML, Java).

This trend is likely to continue as user expectations rise - once you have A, there is usually a B that you want next. Over time this will likely evolve from visual user interface to voice, as our collective vocabulary in this area improves.

How much of Tag is no-code

Tag is built around a set of apps. Each app has its own purpose, and a user interface unique to that. The no-code philosophy is infused into all the apps and, where possible, the same no-code tools are used in multiple places.

The Connect app lets you call web APIs. Its no-code form handles HTTP syntax for you, which is normally a software programmer's job.

The Automate app creates pipelines and other files that automate tasks. Where possible, no-code options are provided and more will be added over time.

The Scribe app handles multi-file content generation and contains many no-code tools. A central design goal was to shield the user nearly 100% from raw XML or XPath syntax, even though very sophisticated automation outcomes are possible.

The use of common no-code tools in apps makes it easy to transfer skills from one app to another. In particular, the use of expressions and result viewers described below have multiple touch points within Tag.