Low Down on Low-Code

In this episode, Sid Conklin of EveryBite joins Rob Koplowitz and John Rymer to explore the transformative impact of vibe coding and AI on software development and entrepreneurship. Discover how low-code and AI-driven tools are revolutionizing startup creation, software architecture, and the future of bespoke applications.Impact of live coding and AI on software developmentHow low-code and AI tools are democratizing entrepreneurshipRisks and guardrails in AI-driven software creationThe future landscape of software vendors and bespoke applicationsSid Conklin's journey from traditional to AI-enabled software engineering

Neil Desai of Golden Earth joins The Low-Down by Analysis.Tech to discuss the intersection of low code and AI, exploring opportunities, challenges, and strategic insights for organizations adopting these technologies including:Integration of AI and Low CodePlatform Pricing and Vendor Lock-inOpen Source and Proprietary TechnologiesIndustry-Specific Low Code SolutionsGovernance and Security in AI AdoptionTakeawaysAI and low code can coexist and enhance each other when integrated thoughtfully.Pricing models for low code platforms need to evolve to reflect AI capabilities and usage.Open source can reduce costs but raises questions about maintenance and incentives.Industry specialization can drive deeper expertise and better solutions.Governance and security are critical focus areas for AI in enterprise applications.

In this episode, Roland Boulos, VP of Solution Consulting at UnifyApps, discusses the future of AI platforms, the architecture of UnifyApps, and how organizations can leverage AI to transform their business processes. He shares insights on building a foundational AI platform, reimagining applications, and the evolving role of solution partners.Key TopicsUnifyApps platform architectureAI agent building and orchestrationData ontology and knowledge graphs in AIReimagining enterprise applications with AIRole of solution partners in AI transformation

New name, same podcast format. We're changing the name of Low Down on Low-Code to The Low-Down from Analysis.Tech. John Rymer and Rob Koplowitz discuss the market drivers that drove the decision. The key learning here: Low-Code models and platforms are more important than ever. Just the name is changing. 

In this insightful interview, Robert Stackowiak the author of Design Thinking in Software and AI Projects: Proving Ideas Through Rapid Prototyping joins Rick Greenwald and Rob Koplowitz to discuss the principles of design thinking and its application to software, AI, and database systems. Guest Robert shares how this approach fosters collaboration, improves project success, and enhances organizational innovation.Key TopicsDesign thinking principles in software and AIApplication of design thinking to database and system designOrganizational collaboration and silos in tech projects

Pardon the provocative title, but the term "low-code" is certainly passe. Even the guy that invented the term agrees. ;)Here's the thing though; much of the functionality of low-code platforms will become more critical than ever. In this episode of Low Down on Low-Code the entire Analysis.Tech research team discusses:How vibing and vibe coding have forever changed the world of development The opportunities for a new world of business-first developers to build new classes of applicationsThe critical role of a model in building and maintaining man applicationsHow a well-designed platform can be leveraged to drive consistency, lower costs and avoid riskWhy we are at a moment in time where over-rotation on AI development could be very unwise 

In this episode of 'The Low Down on Low-Code', Rick Greenwald, John Rymer, Tony Baer, and Matthew Housley discuss the intricate relationship between developers and data management, the impact of AI on data practices, and the importance of data governance. They explore the tensions between speed and quality in software development, the need for collaboration through fusion teams, and the challenges posed by AI in data management. The conversation emphasizes the necessity of understanding data quality, security risks, and the future of data architecture in an increasingly AI-driven landscape.TakeawaysDevelopers often prioritize speed over data quality.Data governance is essential for ensuring data correctness.AI can significantly impact data management practices.Collaboration between developers and data professionals is crucial.Understanding data context is vital for effective governance.Security risks are heightened with the use of AI and agents.Fusion teams can help bridge the gap between business and tech.Data quality issues can lead to significant business risks.Training on data risks is often lacking in the industry.Starting simple with AI and orchestration is a best practice.

SummaryThis episode of Low Down on Low Code explores the intersection of low code development and artificial intelligence, focusing on the emerging trend of vibe coding. The panel discusses how vibe coding is reshaping the landscape of application development, empowering business users, and changing the roles of developers. They emphasize the importance of governance and security in low code environments while highlighting the potential of generative AI to enhance creativity and efficiency in software creation. The conversation also touches on the art of the possible with these technologies, showcasing innovative applications and the future of software development.TakeawaysVibe coding is a significant trend in low-code development.AI is reshaping the landscape of application development.The role of developers is evolving with the introduction of vibe coding.Business users are becoming more empowered to create applications.Governance and security remain critical in low-code environments.The future of software development is about collaboration between business and IT.Generative AI is changing how applications are built and deployed.Organizations are seeing reduced time to market for new applications.Vibe coding allows for more creativity and efficiency in software development.The concept of 'agentic' applications is emerging, where AI assists in building software.Timestamps00:00 - Introduction to Low Code and AI03:01 - The Impact of Vibe Coding on Low Code10:46 - Changing Roles in Software Development14:23 - The Future of Development: Collaboration and Governance27:17 - The Role of Business in Software Development45:52 - Art of the Possible: Innovations in Low Code59:26 - Podcast Outro.mp4

In this episode of Low Down on Low-Code, Cody Low of Replit discusses the evolution of low code development, focusing on Replit's unique approach to empowering users through vibe coding and the integration of agents in software development. Cody shares his journey from the Marine Corps to leading pre-sales at Replit, emphasizing the importance of understanding software deeply before transitioning into leadership roles. The conversation explores the concept of vibe coding, the challenges and opportunities it presents for citizen developers, and how Replit differentiates itself in a competitive market. They also discuss the future of low code, the role of agents, and the cultural shifts necessary for organizations to embrace this new paradigm.TakeawaysCody Low's journey from the Marine Corps to Replit highlights the importance of understanding software deeply.Vibe coding allows users to build applications without needing extensive coding knowledge.Replit aims to provide an end-to-end experience for users, differentiating itself from competitors.Empowering citizen developers can lead to innovative solutions within organizations.The future of low code involves integrating agents to enhance productivity and efficiency.Cultural shifts are necessary for organizations to embrace citizen development.Prototyping options is more valuable than simply reporting problems.Replit's agent builder allows users to create and improve their own agents.The primary user of Replit is shifting from the individual to the agent.The direction of low code development is accelerating rapidly.

In this episode of "Low Down on Low-Code," host Rob Koplowitz shifts the focus to the evolving landscape of low-code development, particularly in the context of AI and vibe coding. He introduces a panel of industry experts, including Adam Seligman from Workato, Chris Obdam from Betty Blocks, Don Schuerman from Pega, and Jessica D'Oliveira, who share their insights on the future of low-code platforms. The discussion centers around the provocative statement that 'low code is dead,' exploring how new paradigms like vibe coding and AI-assisted development are reshaping the industry. Each panelist offers unique perspectives on how these changes will impact developer personas, governance, and the integration of AI into business processes.TakeawaysLow code is evolving, not dead.Vibe coding offers flexibility and independence.AI integration is crucial for modern development.The role of developers is changing with new tools.Governance and organizational culture are key to success.

In this episode of "Low Down on Low-Code," hosts Dave Marcus and Rob Koplowitz welcome Nick Ford, former CMO of Mendix and now an advisor in the low-code space. Nick shares insights from his extensive career in software development, particularly focusing on the evolution of low-code platforms and the emerging trend of vibe coding. He discusses his 'six truths' about low-code, emphasizing the importance of strategic vision over mere speed in application development. Nick argues that while low-code platforms have made software development more accessible, organizations often fail to leverage them effectively, leading to fragmented solutions that lack long-term value. He also explores the role of vibe coding in accelerating development processes and how it complements low-code solutions, suggesting that the future of software development will require a balance between Takeaways'It's never about the technology; it's always about you.''Organizations that succeed think about what they are building, not just how fast.''Vibe coding is about flow; it allows you to stay in the problem space.''The challenge is how to break the loop of building artifacts.''Agents will play a significant role in the future of software development.'

John Rymer hosts Dave Marcus to discuss new research on the importance of effective channel partner strategies in the AI era. They explore common mistakes vendors make, the necessity of commitment and enablement, and the evolving landscape of channel partnerships. The conversation emphasizes the need for vendors to understand their channel partners' business models and to provide adequate support to ensure success.TakeawaysThe channel business is an accelerator for vendors.Vendors must understand the value of their offerings to the channel.Commitment is essential for effective channel strategies.Channel partners have more choices than ever before.Enablement is crucial for channel partners to succeed.Compensation strategies must be competitive to attract partners.Understanding expectations is key to partnership success.Vendors need to align with channel partners' business models.Feedback from partners is vital for continuous improvement.The landscape of channel partnerships is evolving rapidly.

In this episode of Lowdown on Low Code, host John Rymer and data expert Rick Greenwald delve into the complexities of data governance within the low code movement. They discuss the challenges posed by distributed data, the elusive quest for a single source of truth, and the importance of understanding data correctness in context. The conversation emphasizes the need for effective governance strategies that align with the realities of distributed data systems and the role of developers in maintaining data integrity.Takeaways-Rick Greenwald has over 40 years of experience in data.-Distributed data refers to data from multiple sources, not just geographical distribution.-The desire for a single uniform data pool is common but challenging to achieve.-Correctness of data is context-dependent and varies by use case.-Governance is essential but often overlooked in data management.-Developers play a role in data governance through their interactions with end users.-Many systems operate in silos, reducing the need for unified governance.-AI agents require access to diverse data but complicate governance.-Organizations must recognize that all data is governed, whether they acknowledge it or not.-Having too many versions of data is a sign of multiple use cases, not poor management.

In this episode of Low Down on Low-Code, hosts Rob Koplowitz and John Rymer welcome Gonçalo Borrêga from OutSystems to discuss the intersection of AI and low-code development. They explore Gonçalo's journey to OutSystems, the challenges enterprises face in leveraging AI, and the evolving role of low-code platforms in software development. The conversation highlights the importance of data management, accountability in AI decision-making, and the potential for AI to enhance business user involvement in application development. The episode concludes with insights into innovative uses of AI in the industry.TakeawaysGonçalo Borrêga emphasizes the importance of vision and pragmatism in technology.Enterprises struggle with AI due to tool sprawl and lack of accountability.AI's non-deterministic nature raises security concerns for enterprises.Low-code development is not dead; it evolves with new technologies.AI can enhance the involvement of business users in software development.Managing data context is critical for effective AI implementation.Innovative uses of AI can transform legacy systems and processes.Low-code platforms can leverage AI for better code generation.The future of software development will require a blend of low-code and traditional coding.AI can facilitate knowledge transfer between business and IT users.

In this episode of Low Down on Low-Code, hosts Rob Koplowitz and John Rymer engage with Praveen Seshadri, founder of Thunk AI and former founder of AppSheet. They discuss the evolution of low-code and no-code platforms, the transition to intelligent applications powered by AI, and the future of software development. Praveen shares insights from his journey in tech, the challenges of traditional software development, and how AI can empower business users to create applications without needing extensive programming knowledge. The conversation emphasizes the importance of adapting to new technologies and the potential for democratizing software development.TakeawaysPraveen Seshadri has a PhD in computer science and has worked on database systems.He founded AppSheet, which was acquired by Google, and later started Thunk AI.The traditional low-code and no-code platforms are becoming less relevant due to advancements in AI.AI can automate the generation of deterministic code, reducing the need for human intervention.The future of software lies in intelligent applications that can handle ambiguity and flexibility.Businesses need to adopt an AI-first approach to stay competitive.The democratization of software development is possible with AI, empowering non-technical users.Reliability and consistency are crucial for deploying AI solutions in business.Organizations should explore both tactical and strategic approaches to AI adoption.The potential for AI to transform industries is vast, with opportunities for new applications.

In this episode of the Low Down on Low-Code, John Rymer, Benjamin Baer, and Linda Crowe discuss the emerging field of decision intelligence, its importance in digital process automation, and the role of community in fostering knowledge sharing among decision-making professionals. They explore the journey of establishing DecideWise, a community focused on decision intelligence, and the significance of low-code solutions in enhancing decision-making processes. The conversation also delves into the challenges of data management and governance, the shift towards a decision-first approach, and the future potential of decision intelligence in various industries.TakeawaysDecision intelligence automates decision-making processes.Community engagement is crucial for knowledge sharing.Low-code solutions enhance change management capabilities.Data management challenges persist in decision intelligence.The industry is shifting towards a decision-first approach.AI plays a significant role in decision intelligence.Integration of multiple technologies is essential.Decision intelligence is a growing market.Knowledge management is vital for organizational success.Join the DecideWise community for valuable resources.This podcast was edited by a human while watching Love Actually. 

In this episode of the Low Down on Low-Code podcast, hosts Francis Carden and John Rymer engage with Stevie Sims, a citizen developer from the energy sector. They explore Stevie's journey from operations to automation, the significance of citizen development, and the evolving role of AI in problem-solving. The conversation emphasizes the importance of collaboration between IT and business, the need for domain expertise, and the challenges posed by generative AI. Stevie shares valuable insights and advice for aspiring developers, highlighting the necessity of understanding business problems and leveraging technology effectively.TakeawaysStevie Sims transitioned from operations to automation in the energy sector.Citizen developers can significantly enhance business processes.Understanding turnaround events is crucial in the energy industry.Low-code platforms empower individuals to solve business problems.Continuous learning and resourcefulness are key in tech development.Domain expertise is essential for effective problem-solving.AI can accelerate development but must be approached cautiously.Collaboration between IT and business is vital for success.Generative AI poses risks of producing inaccurate information.Giving back to the community is a rewarding aspect of the tech journey.

NEW RESEARCH ALERT: TRANSFORM FAILING AI STRATEGIES WITH HOSTHOW HUMANS, OBJECTIVES, STRATEGY, AND TECHNOLOGY DRIVE MEASURABLE RESULTSJulie Ask Advisory and Analysis.Tech collaborated on this critical new research. This week's Low Down on Low-Code provides an introduction.The conversation focuses on the importance of integrating human factors into AI strategy development. It emphasizes that technology decisions should come after understanding the capabilities and readiness of the people who will use it. The discussion highlights the need for clear business objectives and evaluating use cases to ensure that AI is the right fit for organizational goals.TakeawaysSenior executives are pushing for AI strategies.Technology decisions should prioritize human readiness.Critical thinking skills are essential for AI use.Understanding user comfort with technology is crucial.Business objectives must guide AI implementation.Evaluating use cases is key to effective AI strategy.Training and iteration are necessary before AI deployment.Human beings should be at the center of AI strategy.AI should support clear business objectives.The right technology must align with user capabilities.

In this episode of Low Down on Low-Code, hosts Rob Koplowitz and John Rymer engage with Niels de Bruijn to discuss a new tool designed to help organizations select the right low-code platform for their needs. Niels shares his journey in tech, the development of the tool, its features, and the importance of understanding user requirements. The conversation also touches on the limitations of the tool, the consolidation of low-code platforms in organizations, and the integration of AI into low-code solutions.TakeawaysThe tool provides a starting point for selecting low-code platforms.Niels de Bruijn has a rich background in tech and consultancy.Understanding user needs is crucial for platform selection.The tool includes demo videos for better user experience.AI integration is rapidly evolving in low-code platforms.Consultancy work is essential even after using the tool.The tool is free and does not require user tracking.Different platforms cater to different use cases.Consolidation of platforms is a common trend in organizations.The tool helps in navigating the complex low-code landscape.

In this episode of Low Down on Low-Code, hosts John Rymer and Rick Greenwald engage with Mike Hichwa, a veteran in the low-code space, discussing the evolution of low-code development, the changing roles of developers, and the importance of citizen developers. They explore the core principles of low-code, the impact of AI, and the challenges of technical debt in application development. The conversation also touches on personal interests, showcasing the multifaceted nature of the guests.TakeawaysMike Hichwa has been involved in low-code development since the early days of Oracle Forms.The transition from traditional coding to low-code has empowered citizen developers.Low-code is fundamentally about creating models that abstract complex coding tasks.AI is poised to significantly influence the adoption of low-code platforms.Technical debt is becoming a major concern for organizations in application development.Collaboration between citizen developers and IT professionals is essential for success.User experience experts play a critical role in application development.Low-code platforms can help reduce the complexity of application development.Understanding the model behind low-code solutions is crucial for effective use.Vibe coding can be a useful tool for prototyping but has limitations.

In this episode of 'The Low Down on Low-Code', Konrad Rogers, CEO of Nextworld, John Rymer and Rick Greenwald discuss the evolution of low-code platforms in enterprise applications. Konrad shares his extensive journey in software development, highlighting the shift towards custom development and the importance of agile methodologies. The conversation delves into the role of citizen development, the foundational importance of data, and the impact of AI on low-code platforms. The discussion emphasizes the need for good design, governance, and the management of technical debt in the development process.Takeaways-Low code has been around longer than the term itself.-The shift towards custom development is becoming more prevalent.-Agile methodologies can be applied beyond software engineering.-Citizen development requires proper support and governance.-Data is the foundation of effective application development.-Technical debt accumulates when changes are made without proper management.-AI can enhance low-code platforms but does not eliminate the need for governance.-Understanding the unique business processes is crucial for successful implementation.-The project team must clearly understand the value they aim to deliver.-Good design and data stewardship are essential for enterprise applications.

In this episode of Low Down on Low-Code, hosts Rob Koplowitz and Dave Marcus welcome Sean Allen from Retool to discuss the evolving landscape of low-code development. Sean shares his journey in the tech industry, highlighting the unique approach Retool takes in addressing the challenges faced by professional developers. The conversation delves into the concept of 'vibe coding' and its implications for application development, as well as the importance of creating a common platform for both professional developers and domain experts. Sean emphasizes the need for secure and trusted environments in enterprise app development, positioning Retool as a key player in this space.Takeaways-Sean Allen has a long history in low-code development.-Retool focuses on professional developers to solve enterprise app challenges.-Vibe coding is a term that has been overloaded in the industry.-Generative AI is changing the landscape of application development.-A common platform is essential for collaboration between developers and domain experts.-Professional developers will still play a crucial role in app development.-Product managers can now create applications using natural language.-Retool aims to provide a secure environment for enterprise applications.-The barriers to building applications have been significantly lowered.-Retool's approach is about solving the right problems, not just checking boxes.

In this episode of Low Down on Low-Code, host John Rymer speaks with Arie Versluis from ThinkWise about the evolving landscape of low-code development, the importance of user adoption, and the critical success factors for implementing low-code solutions in enterprise environments. They discuss the role of AI, the challenges of citizen development, and the necessity of data integrity in ensuring successful digital transformations. Arie shares insights from his journey in the tech industry and emphasizes the need for collaboration between IT and business teams to drive effective low-code initiatives.TakeawaysUser adoption is essential for technology to add value.Digital transformation should start with understanding business processes.Change management is often the bottleneck in low-code projects.Executive sponsorship is crucial for project success.Citizen development can lead to unmanageable applications.Data integrity is vital for AI and low-code success.Low-code development requires a collaborative approach between IT and business.Vibe coding may complicate existing codebases.ThinkWise focuses on enterprise-grade low-code applications.Technology should never become legacy; it must evolve.

In this episode of Low Down on Low-Code, Rob Koplowitz and Dave Marcus engage with Adam Seligman from Workato, discussing the evolution of AI platforms, the importance of data integration, and the challenges organizations face in implementing AI solutions. They explore Adam's journey through the tech industry, the significance of measuring AI success through business outcomes, and the necessary organizational shifts to fully leverage AI capabilities. The conversation emphasizes the need for a strategic approach to AI deployment, focusing on transformative processes rather than mere productivity gains. Adam dives into Workato MCP, a secure highly governed approach to safely harnessing the power of MCP.TakeawaysThe AI application platform race is rapidly evolving.Data integration and orchestration are critical for organizations.Adam Seligman's journey highlights the importance of understanding diverse developer needs.AI's potential lies in transforming business processes, not just enhancing productivity.Organizations should focus on measurable business outcomes when implementing AI.The transition from pilot projects to production requires careful governance and risk management.Vibe coding platforms can enhance the development of enterprise applications.A clear evaluation set is essential for assessing AI project success.IT departments must ensure that various systems work together seamlessly.The industry must learn from past mistakes to avoid pitfalls in AI deployment.

In this episode of Low Down on Low-Code, Rob Koplowitz and Rick Greenwald discuss the governance of AI in enterprises, focusing on a new research project conducted in collaboration with Microsoft. They explore the risks associated with AI, the importance of a structured governance framework, and the need for centers of excellence to effectively implement AI technologies. The conversation emphasizes the necessity of understanding both the potential benefits and risks of AI, advocating for a balanced approach to its deployment in business environments.Takeaways-AI governance is crucial for enterprise success.-The foundations of AI pose significant risks that must be managed-Outlawing AI leads to unregulated use.-Proper governance can mitigate AI risks.-Data security is paramount in AI governance.-The VRPP framework helps assess AI value and risk.-Centers of excellence are vital for AI implementation.-Understanding AI's non-deterministic nature is essential.-Rigor in AI projects is necessary to avoid pitfalls.-Collaboration with established firms like Microsoft enhances governance. 

In this episode, Rob Koplowitz and John Rymer engage with Alex Landis, a founding member of the FinOps Foundation, to explore the evolving landscape of FinOps and its integration with emerging technologies. The conversation delves into the definition of FinOps, its significance across various industries, the challenges of data management, and the impact of AI on financial operations. Alex shares insights on governance, best practices, and the future of FinOps, emphasizing the importance of making informed investments and leveraging technology for better communication and efficiency.TakeawaysFinOps is essential for managing cloud costs effectively.Understanding platform operations is crucial for financial performance.AI presents both opportunities and challenges for FinOps professionals.Data management in FinOps is complex and requires sophisticated tools.Governance in AI usage is critical to avoid unnecessary spending.The role of FinOps is growing as companies invest more in technology.Effective communication between finance and engineering is vital.Automation can significantly improve forecasting processes.Empowering teams to self-serve with data tools enhances efficiency.The FinOps Foundation is a valuable resource for best practices.

In this episode of the podcast, the discussion revolves around the evolving landscape of low-code development, the impact of AI, and the role of systems integrators like Virtusa. Greg Price shares his extensive experience in IT and low-code, emphasizing the importance of process design, managing technical debt, and navigating vendor lock-in. The conversation highlights the need for a pragmatic approach to technology adoption, the significance of orchestration in business processes, and the future of low-code in conjunction with AI capabilities.TakeawaysLow-code development is gaining traction due to AI advancements.Technical debt remains a significant challenge for organizations.The role of systems integrators is crucial in navigating low-code implementations.AI can accelerate development but requires careful management.Vendor lock-in concerns are leading to a preference for composable architectures.Process design and orchestration are essential for successful low-code applications.Organizations must focus on remediating technical and process debt.The future of low-code will involve deeper integration with AI technologies.Understanding business processes is key to effective low-code solutions.Innovation in low-code is driven by a combination of technology and human expertise.

In this episode of Lowdown on Lowcode, hosts Rob Koplowitz and Dave Marcus engage with Marshall Sied from Ashling Partners to explore the evolving landscape of low code, digital process automation, and AI. They discuss the importance of education, governance, and orchestration in automation projects, as well as the challenges and opportunities presented by new technologies. Marshall shares insights from his extensive experience in the consulting space, emphasizing the need for organizations to focus on value realization and continuous deployment methodologies. The conversation also touches on the significance of experimentation and the future of applications in a rapidly changing technological environment.TakeawaysMarshall Sied emphasizes the importance of education in automation.Organizations are increasingly conflicted about AI and automation.Value realization is crucial for successful automation projects.Continuous deployment methodologies are essential for achieving value.Governance is critical in managing automation technologies.Experimentation is encouraged in the current automation landscape.Orchestration is becoming a key focus for automation companies.Capability mapping should precede tool mapping in technology selection.Organizations need to be cautious with low-code and AI technologies.The future of applications will involve more productization and composability.

In this episode of Low Down on Low-Code, hosts Rob Koplowitz and John Rymer engage with Kari Moeller to explore the intersection of process optimization and AI. They discuss the importance of documentation and modeling in managing changes brought by AI, the need to reimagine business processes, and the role of technology in achieving desired outcomes. Kari shares her insights on consulting, the challenges of data management, and how organizations can leverage AI as a digital assistant to enhance their operations. The conversation emphasizes the critical need for organizations to understand their technology landscape and align their strategies with clear outcomes.TakeawaysThe intersection of process and technology is crucial for optimization.Documentation and modeling are essential for managing AI changes.AI should be viewed as a digital assistant, not a replacement for human roles.Organizations must start with outcomes to drive effective change.Understanding the technology landscape is vital for successful implementation.Data quality is more important than quantity in decision-making.Reimagining processes can lead to significant improvements in efficiency.AI can amplify both good and bad processes, necessitating careful management.Consulting practices should focus on empowering business users with data.Future customers will be those who experience the processes firsthand.

In this episode of Lowdown on Low-Code, Rob Koplowitz and John Rymer engage with Nick Cawthon from Gauge to explore the evolving landscape of design and application development. They discuss Nick's journey into design, the current flux in the industry, the impact of AI on user experience, and the importance of understanding user needs in 2025. The conversation emphasizes the human element in design and the necessity for collaboration between designers and developers, highlighting tools like Figma that facilitate this relationship.TakeawaysNick Cawthon's journey into design began with a childhood experience of flow state.The design industry is currently experiencing significant changes and flux.AI is reshaping user experience, making it more about emotions than interfaces.Designers must focus on qualitative research to understand user emotions.Efficiency in design must not compromise the effectiveness of user experience.Understanding user experience in 2025 requires a holistic approach.The relationship between designers and developers is evolving positively.Tools like Figma are crucial for collaboration in design and development.Mitigating risks in design is essential to avoid dead-on-arrival products.The human element in design remains irreplaceable despite technological advancements.

In this episode of Lowdown on Low Code, hosts Dave Marcus and John Rymer engage with Massimo Pezzini, a veteran in the field of integration and orchestration. They discuss the evolution of orchestration as a foundational need for modern business applications, the challenges of data synchronization, and the convergence of integration and orchestration technologies. The conversation also touches on the importance of governance in distributed systems and the growing role of AI in enhancing business processes. Massimo shares insights on how organizations can effectively navigate these challenges and leverage technology for better outcomes.TakeawaysOrchestration is broader than just workflow; it automates end-to-end business processes.Integration and orchestration are increasingly becoming integrated disciplines.Governance is essential for effective orchestration and cannot be an afterthought.AI can significantly enhance business processes when integrated effectively.Organizations should have a unified integration team to address various integration challenges.Mid-size organizations tend to favor integrated platforms due to skill limitations.The complexity of integration challenges varies, requiring different technological solutions.Trust in AI is growing as organizations find well-defined use cases for its application.Data integration and application integration are complementary and should be considered together.The trend is towards platforms that offer a comprehensive suite of services for application development.

This conversation explores the state of low-code technology in India, highlighting its growth, challenges, and the impact of AI on its adoption. The discussion features insights from Abhishek Anant Garg, an analyst at QKS Group, who shares his perspective on the low-code landscape, particularly focusing on the role of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and the challenges faced by Indian vendors in competing with established players in the global market. The conversation also delves into the adoption of low-code by professional developers and its implications for industrial organizations.TakeawaysIndia is a service-based economy with a growing low-code market.SMEs are leading the adoption of low-code technologies in India.Indian vendors like Zoho and Kissflow cater effectively to SMEs.Low-code helps organizations achieve rapid prototyping and automation.AI is expected to significantly boost low-code adoption in India.Governance and maturity in low-code practices are still developing.Professional developers are complementing their work with low-code tools.Industrial organizations are slowly adopting low-code for operational efficiency.Citizen development is in its early stages in India.The partnership between IT service firms and low-code vendors is crucial for growth.

In this episode of Low Down on Low-Code, hosts Rob Koplowitz and John Rymer engage with Colin Teubner and Larson Thune from NavLabs to explore the intersection of low-code development and Agile methodologies. They discuss the journeys of Colin and Larson to NavLabs, the challenges of citizen development, the role of product owners, and the impact of AI on low-code development. The conversation emphasizes the importance of testing ideas, gathering requirements, and leveraging Agile practices in low-code environments.TakeawaysLow-code platforms are evolving and becoming more powerful.Agile practices can be adapted to low-code development.The role of product owners is critical in low-code projects.Citizen development has its challenges and misconceptions.AI can enhance productivity but requires quality inputs.Testing ideas in small batches can lead to better outcomes.Effective communication is key in Agile and low-code environments.Training and coaching can significantly improve Agile adoption.The future of development may involve more AI integration.Understanding user feedback is essential for successful projects.

In this episode of Lowdown on Low-Code, John Rymer and Rick Greenwald engage with Antigoni Kourou, CEO of NEKOD, to explore the critical topic of governance in low-code and citizen development. Antigoni shares her journey from engineering to governance, emphasizing the importance of balancing innovation with control. The conversation delves into the challenges of data management, the role of AI in citizen development, and best practices for establishing effective governance frameworks. Antigoni advocates for an adaptive governance model that evolves with organizational maturity and risk appetite, highlighting the need for collaboration between business and IT.TakeawaysGovernance is essential for successful citizen development.Antigoni Kourou emphasizes the importance of balancing innovation and control.Organizations must identify individuals willing to digitalize processes.Choosing the right platform is crucial for enabling innovation.Processes must be established to guide citizen developers.Data governance is a significant challenge for enterprises.AI can aid in governance but also introduces new risks.An adaptive governance model can cater to different organizational needs.Collaboration between business and IT is vital for effective governance.Governance frameworks should evolve with organizational maturity.

In this episode, Francis Carden and Dave Marcus engage with Shaun Leisegang from Tecala to explore the evolving landscape of Low-Code and automation. They discuss Shaun's journey in IT, the methodologies for implementing automation, the significance of orchestration and governance in AI, and the future of services transitioning into software. The conversation emphasizes the need for businesses to adapt to new technologies while ensuring responsible and effective implementation.TakeawaysLow-Code is a transformative approach to software development.Automation methodologies help businesses identify where to start.AI agents represent the next evolution of automation.Orchestration is crucial for integrating various automation tools.Governance should be prioritized in AI implementations.Businesses must adapt to new technologies to remain competitive.The future will see a shift from services to software.Collaboration between humans and AI agents is essential.Understanding the unique strengths of different technologies is key.Building responsible AI agents is critical for trust and effectiveness.

Writer CMO Diego Lomanto joins Dave Marcus and Rob Koplowitz for a discussion on the coming application landscape. As Agents continue to mature and provide greater and greater value, it's clear that business applications will evolve into something very different from today. Who will provide the market with this new class of applications? It could be traditional enterprise vendors, but moments like this are ripe for disruptors. Diego discusses Writer's focus on the enterprise, the critical differentiation offered by private LLMs, and provides examples of Writer agents driving value in the most regulated, mission-critical environments today. 

In this episode of Low Down on Low-Code, Rob Koplowitz and John Rymer discuss the evolving landscape of low-code application development, particularly in light of the rise of AI and its implications for SaaS. They explore various vendor perspectives, the challenges of integration and orchestration, and the shift towards process automation. The conversation highlights the strengths and weaknesses of established players like Microsoft, Pega, ServiceNow, Camunda, OutSystems, Mendix, Workato, and UiPath, as well as newer entrants in the market like Writer. The episode concludes with insights into their upcoming research report on the AI Application Platform Race.

In this episode of Low Down on Low-Code, hosts Rob Koplowitz and Dave Marcus engage with Daniel Meyer from Camunda to explore the intersection of low-code development, AI, and process automation. They discuss Daniel's journey to Camunda, the evolving role of AI in business processes, and the importance of BPMN in managing complex workflows. The conversation also touches on the future of open-source software, the integration of RPA and IDP technologies, and the concept of the autonomous enterprise, highlighting how organizations can leverage these advancements to enhance customer experiences and operational efficiency.TakeawaysDaniel Meyer shares his journey from sound engineering to process automation.AI is viewed through the lens of automation at Camunda.The evolution from manual processes to task automation is crucial.Measuring productivity gains is essential but not the end goal.Personalization of customer experiences will define future success.BPMN serves as a bridge between business and IT.Dynamic execution patterns in BPMN can accommodate AI decision-making.Robust orchestration is necessary for integrating various technologies.The definition of applications is shifting towards unstructured interactions.The future of business processes will be more autonomous and proactive.

In this episode, Angela Stewart discusses the transformative impact of AI on business development and citizen development. She shares her journey from a business background to a tech-focused role, emphasizing the importance of creativity and governance in AI implementation. Angela highlights success stories of AI applications, the evolution of ideation to production, and the risks associated with AI development, particularly in regulated industries. The conversation concludes with insights on the future of work and the necessity for creativity in leveraging AI technologies.Takeaways-AI has revolutionized application development processes.-Citizen development empowers business users to create solutions.-Governance is essential in managing AI implementations.-Creativity will be a key skill in the future workforce.-AI can significantly reduce the time from ideation to production.-Tech debt remains a critical concern in AI development.-Successful AI applications can emerge from simple ideas.-The role of business analysts is evolving with AI tools.-AI can enhance productivity by automating administrative tasks.-Collaboration between business and tech teams is crucial for success.

We've all heard it: software applications in the future will be completely different. Ok, how? We pulled in an old friend and colleague to dive into  the question. Julie Ask of Julie Ask Advisory joins Low Down on Low-Code with Rob Koplowitz, John Rymer and Andy Bartels to discuss. The old friends and colleagues dive into the topic of what the future of applications will look like with more AI, copilots and agents. The four attempt to separate the hype from reality and provide some crunchy advise on where to place your bets now and in the future. 

In this episode of the Low Down on Low-Code podcast, hosts John Rymer and Ryan Duguid engage with Nathan Rose, a functional architect and Microsoft MVP, to explore the evolving landscape of low-code and no-code development. They discuss Nathan's journey into the low-code space, the role of AI and agents in automation, the skills required to work with these technologies, and the importance of governance and manageability. The conversation also addresses the fears surrounding AI and the future of low-code professionals in a rapidly changing environment.Takeaways-Nathan Rose has 15 years of experience in low-code.-Functional architects focus on user needs rather than technical coding.-AI is a significant theme in low-code development.-Deterministic automation is effective for known processes.-Stop catastrophizing about AI; it's an opportunity.-Hands-on experience with AI can lead to new opportunities.-Governance in AI and low-code is crucial to prevent issues.-The future of low-code professionals may require new skills.-Domain expertise will remain valuable in the age of AI.-AI will change the landscape of many jobs, creating new opportunities.

In this episode of Lowdown on Low-Code, Rob Koplowitz and John Rymer engage with Richard Riley, General Manager of Low-Code Marketing at Microsoft, discussing the evolution and impact of the Power Platform. They explore Richard's journey to Microsoft, the role of citizen developers, the integration of AI in low-code development, and the importance of governance and community in successful low-code adoption. The conversation also touches on the future of SaaS and the potential of agents in transforming business processes.TakeawaysPower Platform has evolved significantly over the years.Citizen developers play a crucial role in low-code adoption.AI is reducing barriers for non-technical users to engage with low-code tools.Community support is essential for low-code success.Governance is necessary to manage risks associated with low-code development.The future of SaaS may lean towards custom development with low-code solutions.Agents will transform how businesses automate processes.Low-code tools should be accessible to a broad audience.Training and change management are vital for low-code adoption.The integration of AI will enhance the capabilities of low-code platforms.

Francis Carden and Rob Koplowitz host Pega Chief of Launchpad, John Huehn. Launchpad is a radical departure from Pega's traditional business and holds the promise to upend ISV software development. The group discusses the transformative potential of low-code platforms, and how that can now extend to the ISV market. John, a key figure at Pega, shares his journey from the telecom industry to leading customer service innovations and now spearheading Launchpad.They explore the integration of AI in this space, the implications for private equity, VCs and self-funded ISV approaches, and the future landscape of software development.TakeawaysLow-code platforms are revolutionizing application development.Pega's Launchpad offers an end-to-end solution for SaaS.AI integration is crucial for modern software development.The shift from traditional coding to low-code is significant.Private equity sees potential in low-code solutions.Companies can focus on unique IP rather than infrastructure.Launchpad simplifies the development process for software providers.The future of software is about delivering outcomes efficiently.Low-code enables faster time-to-market for applications.Understanding the model is key to leveraging low-code effectively.

Content and unstructured data are an incredible part of an automation strategy. In this episode of Low Down on Low-Code, Rob Koplowitz interviews Jitesh Ghai, CEO of Hyland, discussing the intersection of low-code development, automation, and the management of unstructured data. They explore Jitesh's journey in technology, the critical role of low-code in achieving business outcomes, and how Hyland is uniquely positioned to drive automation strategies in regulated industries. The conversation also delves into the transformative potential of AI in content management and the future of business processes through agentic automation.Takeaways-It's important to have a plan but also let life reveal its plan.-Hyland focuses on business outcomes, not just document retention.-Low code is critical for enabling organizations to meet their processes.-Engaging business users is essential for successful deployments.-Hyland has deep expertise in regulated industries.-AI has been a part of automation for decades.-The future of enterprise technology will be radically different.-Agents will replace business processes, not people.-Generative models can structure unstructured data effectively.-Hyland is positioned at the confluence of AI and mission-critical data.

SummaryIn this Low Down on Low-Code episode, hosts Rob Koplowitz and John Rymer engage with Rafsan Huseynov, a solution architect and Microsoft MVP, to explore the evolving landscape of low-code development and citizen development. Rafsan shares his journey from a non-programming background to becoming a pro-code developer, emphasizing the importance of improving business processes through technology. The conversation delves into the critical shift needed between business and IT, the role of change management in citizen development, and the significance of frameworks like those from the Project Management Institute (PMI). Additionally, they discuss the implications of AI in business, the necessity of governance, and how individuals can prepare for an AI-driven future.TakeawaysRafsan's journey from economics to citizen development highlights the importance of improving workflows.The shift in dynamics between business and IT is crucial for successful low-code implementation.Change management is essential for engaging users in the development process.The PMI framework provides a structured approach for citizen developers.AI governance is necessary to mitigate risks associated with AI implementation.Every organization is becoming a software company, necessitating a shift in mindset.Understanding business needs is critical for IT professionals.Citizen developers can evolve into pro-code developers with the right tools and training.AI should be used where reasoning capabilities are needed, not for simple automation tasks.Becoming a domain expert is key to leveraging AI effectively.Timestamps02:01 - Rafsan's Journey to Citizen Development05:52 - The Shift Between Business and IT09:46 - The Role of Software in Business12:34 - Change Management in Citizen Development17:00 - Insights from the Project Management Institute21:04 - Navigating the AI Landscape26:30 - Preparing for an AI-Driven Future

In this episode of Lowdown on Lowcode, hosts Rob Koplowitz and John Rymer engage with Ian Barkin, a founding partner at 2B Ventures and co-author of 'All Hands on Tech, the AI-powered Citizen Revolution.' The conversation explores the concept of citizen development, emphasizing the importance of empowering business people to drive innovation and improve processes. Ian discusses the roles of citizen developers and citizen data scientists, the significance of robotic process automation (RPA), and the evolving landscape of AI in business applications. The episode highlights the need for collaboration between business and IT, the value of democratizing technology, and the importance of fostering a culture of innovation within organizations.TakeawaysCitizen development empowers business people to innovate.Understanding customer needs is crucial for process improvement.RPA can bridge gaps between systems and improve efficiency.AI is changing the landscape of business applications.Collaboration between business and IT is essential for success.Citizen data scientists can drive significant value through data analysis.Organizations should encourage citizen innovation and scouting.Training in technology is important but mindset matters more.Democratizing technology leads to better customer experiences.Leadership should incentivize and support innovation efforts.Timestamps05:03 - The Evolution of RPA and Citizen Development10:16 - Understanding Citizen Data Scientists15:09 - The Role of Business in Automation19:56 - AI's Impact on Business Applications25:16 - Encouraging Innovation in Enterprises

In this episode of Lowdown on Low-Code, John Rymer interviews Sridhar Vembu, co-founder of Zoho, discussing the evolution of low-code platforms, the integration of AI, and the importance of governance in software development. Sridhar shares insights on Zoho's journey, the ideal customer profile for low-code solutions, and strategies for addressing larger enterprises. He emphasizes the need for control over technology and the role of AI in enhancing productivity and creating context-specific applications.TakeawaysZoho has been a pioneer in low-code since 2005.AI features in low-code are becoming commoditized.The integration of AI can enhance programmer productivity significantly.Ideal low-code customers have technical and domain knowledge.Zoho is evolving to meet the needs of larger enterprises.Governance and compliance are critical for low-code adoption.Zoho uses open-source databases to enhance performance.The company is investing heavily in security and privacy compliance.Professional tools are available for low-code users to manage software lifecycle.The future of low-code includes a blend of AI and traditional programming.

In this episode of Lowdown on Low Code, John Rymer and Francis Carden discuss the evolution and impact of low code platforms with Richard Billington, CTO of Netcall. They explore Richard's journey in the low code space, the importance of reusability, and how empowering non-technical users is crucial for success. The conversation also delves into the shift from building to buying applications, the role of AI in enhancing low code development, and successful case studies like Network Rail's digital factory. The episode concludes with insights on the future of off-the-shelf applications and the growing significance of governance in low code initiatives.TakeawaysLow code platforms are revolutionizing application development.Empowering non-technical users is essential for success.Reusability in low code is a key factor for efficiency.AI is becoming a critical component in low code development.Governance frameworks are necessary for managing low code projects.The shift from building to buying applications is underway.Digital transformation is driven by low code solutions.Successful low code implementations require collaboration and sharing.The future of applications lies in low code and AI integration.Organizations must adapt to the changing landscape of software development.01:37 - Richard Billington's Journey in Low Code05:38 - The Evolution of Low Code Platforms09:12 - The Importance of Reusability in Low Code11:06 - Sector-Specific Solutions and Collaboration13:17 - Empowering Non-Technical Users17:07 - Challenges and Resistance in Adoption19:28 - The Shift from Building to Buying Applications24:10 - Success Stories: Network Rail's Digital Factory28:39 - Integrating Customer Engagement with Low Code32:36 - AI's Role in the Future of Low Code

In this episode of Lowdown on Lowcode, John Rymer and Rob Koplowitz engage with James Taylor to explore the intersection of low code, AI, and decision management. They discuss the evolution of software, the impact of AI on jobs, and the importance of measuring effectiveness in IT investments. The conversation delves into the role of data, the need for business and IT engagement, and the challenges of mixing probabilistic and deterministic approaches in decision-making. Additionally, they address regulatory challenges and the future of AI in business.TakeawaysAI will eliminate a huge number of jobs.The impact of AI depends on company strategy.You have to be really outcome-focused.Probabilistic models can magnify sloppy thinking.You need a mix of technologies for effective decision-making.Engagement between business and IT is crucial.Measuring effectiveness in IT investments is challenging.Data availability is key to decision-making.Human oversight is essential in AI applications.Regulatory challenges may hinder AI adoption.Timestamps•  05:17 - The Impact of AI on Jobs and Business Strategy•  11:05 - Measuring Effectiveness in IT Investments•  21:24 - Mixing Deterministic and Probabilistic Approaches•  27:42 - Decision Modeling and High Volume Transactions•  32:45 - Human Involvement in Decision Processes•  39:31 - Holistic Automation Strategies

In this episode of Low Down on Low-Code, hosts Rob Koplowitz and Francis Carden welcome Vijay Tella, CEO and founder of Workato. They discuss the evolution of low-code technology, the importance of integration and orchestration, and the role of AI in optimizing processes. Vijay shares insights on the ideal client mindset, the balance between building and buying solutions, and the need for governance in AI applications. The conversation highlights the unique value propositions of Workato and the future of low-code innovations in 2025.Takeaways2025 is set to be a transformative year for low-code.Vijay Tella's journey reflects the evolution of integration technologies.A growth mindset is crucial for clients looking to innovate.Integration and orchestration are central to low-code success.AI can enhance process optimization but requires careful governance.The build vs. buy debate is nuanced and context-dependent.Trust and control are essential in AI applications.Understanding the customer journey is key to effective orchestration.Workato aims to simplify integration for broader accessibility.The future of low-code lies in reimagining processes and experiences.Timestamps03:15 - Vijay Tella's Journey into Tech and Automation06:10 - The Ideal Client: Growth Mindset and Systems Thinking08:55 - Integration and Orchestration: The Heart of Workado12:18 - AI's Role in Process Optimization and Integration15:10 - Build vs. Buy: Navigating Client Needs20:10 - Governance and Guardrails in AI Applications24:18 - The Future of Workado: Trust and Predictability in AI