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Is Coding Really an End-All Skill for an Automated World? – ReadWrite

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Vivek Goel


Automation is the next big thing, and the benefits of this new technology have proven themselves again and again. However, this has led to some confusion regarding how the workforce may need to change to suit the needs of this new technological landscape. This also leads to the question, is coding a required skill? Or can we do without it?

At the first glance, coding seems to be the most useful skill going forward which could enable individuals to help build applications and tools to meet the current automation needs. But then the coding is not for everyone. What happens in such a case? Are there no other options? These are the questions we will explore in this blog.

What is automation?

Automation is the technology, processes, programs, or robotics that can ensure that business goals are met with minimum human intervention. Automation of tasks is undertaken to achieve maximum efficiency, speed, and productivity while reducing problems and errors to a minimum.

There are many different automation types, including business process automation, robotic process automation, workflow automation, etc. All these types of automation can be utilized in different sectors and industries, leading to improved performance and productivity.

Many people are also wary of automation as it may be possible to replace their jobs with machines and technology. A WEF report says that by 2025, the time spent on tasks by machines and humans will be equal.

Despite these statistics, the automation revolution may lead to the creation of 97 million new jobs, leading to new employment opportunities. To remain relevant in an automated world, employees will need to adapt and reskill themselves to suit the new technological landscape.

Although automation is utilized to speed up and improve the productivity of basic tasks, this also frees up the time of the employees to focus on more valuable and high-level tasks. Hyperautomation (quixydotcom) has also become popular as it can provide a method of orchestrating many different tasks together on the basis of data.

The ability to build and create will be of the utmost importance going forward. Employees who can reskill and upskill themselves with relevant skills will be in demand, and automation may be the catalyst that leads to a whole new set of required skills in the future. However that leads to the question – is coding a required skill in an automated world?

What is coding?

Coding is a skill that can enable people to create software, websites, applications, etc. There has been a huge wave of encouragement for everyone to learn to code. Countries across the world have started teaching basic coding skills to children as part of their school curriculum. As code and programming seem to be the basis of our technological world, it seems imperative that individuals learn how to code.

To learn how to code, an individual needs to learn a particular coding language. There are many coding languages and each of them can be used for a specific purpose. Currently, the most popular coding languages include JavaScript, Python, PHP, SQL, C, C++, Java, C#, GO, R, Swift. These languages are all created to suit different needs such as web development, writing desktop software, mobile app development, hardware development, etc.

With so many different coding languages and choices, it is easy to get confused. Learning a new coding language is akin to learning a whole new language, complete with new words, syntax, grammar, and rules. This can be difficult for individuals without the aptitude for coding or a programming background.

But is coding for everybody?

Coding is an important skill; however, everyone may not have the aptitude for it. There are a variety of reasons why learning how to code might not be feasible for certain people:

1. Coding is complicated

Learning how to code requires individuals to learn a whole new coding language. If people aren’t used to sitting in front of the computer for long amounts of time and focusing on writing endless lines of code, this can become tedious and frustrating for some. Coding can also take a lot of time to learn if you’re learning it on your own, and coding boot camps can be expensive.

2. Coding is simply a tool

Coding languages are simply tools to create applications and programs that achieve a defined goal. Simply learning a coding language will not be useful in the long run if your problem-solving skills are not developed simultaneously. Coding is a tool that can help people solve problems using specific coding languages, so learning to understand and comprehend the problem in a way that can be solved using code is half of the battle.

3. The coding world is ever-changing

Those who learned how to code in the past might have sworn by coding languages like FORTRAN or PASCAL, but newer languages like Python and JavaScript have succeeded these languages in the past few years.

The coding world is constantly improving and innovating. If an individual is learning coding as a secondary skill while holding on to a full-time job, it may get exhausting to keep up with constant innovations.

4. Coding is not an end-all skill

Coding is definitely a good skill to have. However, it isn’t an end-all skill that will render all other skills obsolete. Coding is a tool that can help translate functionalities into a coding language that can be used by computers to create apps or websites.

However, if the website or application has a specific topic like gardening or beauty, experts in the gardening and beauty fields will become indispensable. These experts will have insights and knowledge that won’t be available anywhere else. Experts with domain knowledge will be indispensable in the future, especially with AI coming up.

Coding may not be the way forward for everybody. What’s more important is learning how to use and leverage new technology to help you in your profession. New technology like low-code no-code (quixydotcom) can be the solution for people who don’t know how to code.

What is low-code development?

Low-code development is a method for developers to design applications quickly with minimum manual or hand-coding.

Low-code involves using drag-and-drop blocks of pre-written code into a workflow to help create applications. It can completely speed up developing a new application for developers since they won’t get caught up in repetitive hand-coding. Low-code development assumes that the user has some level of technical knowledge of coding and coding languages.

What is no-code development?

No-code development is a form of web development that can help non-programmers and citizen developers create software, websites, and applications using a visual user interface.

This form of development allows people to create using new technology without letting a lack of coding skills become a barrier to entry. No-code development involves creating robust solutions that can be created without writing even a single line of code.

Thus, no-code application builders can be a good solution to the question of “is coding a required skill.”

No-code solutions can also lead to benefits like:

  • Quicker and easier prototypes and MVPs
  • Reduction of dependencies on developers
  • Faster launches
  • Increased autonomy
  • Reduced production costs

No-code development can help citizen developers and non-technical people create websites, applications, and software through democratizing technical skill sets. No-code technology can empower business users and employees everywhere by abstracting technical complexities and creating a unique visual interface. No-code application builders are perfect for businesses who need custom applications to help with specific business requirements.

There are many examples of successful citizen developers, and Gartner predicts that there will be 4 times more citizen developers than professional developers at enterprises by 2023. This will definitely help lessen the load on the IT team in the organization, leading to more time that can be focused on strategic ventures.

The IT team is often overwhelmed with maintaining existing software and other operational backlogs, which can be resolved by giving citizen developers a chance to share the load.

No-code development can help bridge the gap between the previously impossible idea of creating websites and applications without any prior knowledge of coding.

Businesses can now adopt this form of development to help existing employees create and design business applications without the need for specially hired developers and programmers.

This opens the doors to creating hybrid positions that can merge existing expertise and domain knowledge with basic development skills through no-code platforms. These individuals will be better prepared to meet future challenges and adapt to the business and employment conditions created through automation.

Citizen developers have gotten no-code resources now to help them create websites and applications that are best suited for the unique needs of their profession that they know inside out. These developers have the chance to become invaluable assets due to their unique knowledge of the needs of their domain. Citizen developers now have the chance to develop new abilities and adapt in an automated world without being forced to let go of their experience and domain knowledge.

Different uses of no-code tools

No-code tools are a gamechanger. These tools have provided an alternative for the question of ‘is coding a required skill?’. No longer is it necessary to have a full team of developers working to create applications and programs for specific requirements; instead, now employees and business users have the means to create basic flexible applications on their own. No-code tools aren’t just limited to creating websites and applications; they can also be integrated with other technology like Artificial Intelligence (AI), Robotic Process Automation (RPA), Machine Learning (ML) to increase capabilities.

  • Artificial intelligence: These technologies can help you leverage the data you have and use no-code solutions to automate tasks that you couldn’t before. AI can be integrated with no-code tools to help perform unique tasks that are dependent on comprehending data.
  • Robotic process automation: If companies want to use RPA automation, they need to program and debug the tools themselves. Using no-code tools with RPA, businesses can program the RPA automation faster, simplify maintenance, and ensure that tasks are completed and automated accurately.
  • Machine learning: No-code machine learning bridges the gap between non-technical users and machine learning. Machine learning coding is no longer a required skill for no-code users to learn for successful ML ventures. This can also reduce the need for professional data scientists and streamline data collection from other business employees.

Summary

In an automated world, coding is a useful skill, and programmers and developers need to stay updated and knowledgeable about different coding languages. However, coding may not be for everyone, and that’s where solutions like no-code and low-code come in to answer the question of ‘is coding a required skill?’.

No-code low-code solutions are the way forward for those who don’t have the aptitude or time to take-up full-time coding.

These solutions can also help businesses lessen their IT team load and enable their other employees to create applications and websites using no-code low-code platforms.

Quixy is a no-code platform that provides an intuitive visual builder that can help develop a website or application. Citizen developers and other business users can definitely benefit from this platform, so take a free trial now (quixydotcom).

Vivek Goel

19+ years of leadership experience in IT companies of all sizes ranging from start-ups to large organizations in India and USA. Expertise in strategy and operations across functions such as Sales and Business Development, HR, Process and Quality, Project Management and Product Development.

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Fintech Kennek raises $12.5M seed round to digitize lending

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Google eyed for $2 billion Anthropic deal after major Amazon play


London-based fintech startup Kennek has raised $12.5 million in seed funding to expand its lending operating system.

According to an Oct. 10 tech.eu report, the round was led by HV Capital and included participation from Dutch Founders Fund, AlbionVC, FFVC, Plug & Play Ventures, and Syndicate One. Kennek offers software-as-a-service tools to help non-bank lenders streamline their operations using open banking, open finance, and payments.

The platform aims to automate time-consuming manual tasks and consolidate fragmented data to simplify lending. Xavier De Pauw, founder of Kennek said:

“Until kennek, lenders had to devote countless hours to menial operational tasks and deal with jumbled and hard-coded data – which makes every other part of lending a headache. As former lenders ourselves, we lived and breathed these frustrations, and built kennek to make them a thing of the past.”

The company said the latest funding round was oversubscribed and closed quickly despite the challenging fundraising environment. The new capital will be used to expand Kennek’s engineering team and strengthen its market position in the UK while exploring expansion into other European markets. Barbod Namini, Partner at lead investor HV Capital, commented on the investment:

“Kennek has developed an ambitious and genuinely unique proposition which we think can be the foundation of the entire alternative lending space. […] It is a complicated market and a solution that brings together all information and stakeholders onto a single platform is highly compelling for both lenders & the ecosystem as a whole.”

The fintech lending space has grown rapidly in recent years, but many lenders still rely on legacy systems and manual processes that limit efficiency and scalability. Kennek aims to leverage open banking and data integration to provide lenders with a more streamlined, automated lending experience.

The seed funding will allow the London-based startup to continue developing its platform and expanding its team to meet demand from non-bank lenders looking to digitize operations. Kennek’s focus on the UK and Europe also comes amid rising adoption of open banking and open finance in the regions.

Featured Image Credit: Photo from Kennek.io; Thank you!

Radek Zielinski

Radek Zielinski is an experienced technology and financial journalist with a passion for cybersecurity and futurology.

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Fortune 500’s race for generative AI breakthroughs

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Deanna Ritchie


As excitement around generative AI grows, Fortune 500 companies, including Goldman Sachs, are carefully examining the possible applications of this technology. A recent survey of U.S. executives indicated that 60% believe generative AI will substantially impact their businesses in the long term. However, they anticipate a one to two-year timeframe before implementing their initial solutions. This optimism stems from the potential of generative AI to revolutionize various aspects of businesses, from enhancing customer experiences to optimizing internal processes. In the short term, companies will likely focus on pilot projects and experimentation, gradually integrating generative AI into their operations as they witness its positive influence on efficiency and profitability.

Goldman Sachs’ Cautious Approach to Implementing Generative AI

In a recent interview, Goldman Sachs CIO Marco Argenti revealed that the firm has not yet implemented any generative AI use cases. Instead, the company focuses on experimentation and setting high standards before adopting the technology. Argenti recognized the desire for outcomes in areas like developer and operational efficiency but emphasized ensuring precision before putting experimental AI use cases into production.

According to Argenti, striking the right balance between driving innovation and maintaining accuracy is crucial for successfully integrating generative AI within the firm. Goldman Sachs intends to continue exploring this emerging technology’s potential benefits and applications while diligently assessing risks to ensure it meets the company’s stringent quality standards.

One possible application for Goldman Sachs is in software development, where the company has observed a 20-40% productivity increase during its trials. The goal is for 1,000 developers to utilize generative AI tools by year’s end. However, Argenti emphasized that a well-defined expectation of return on investment is necessary before fully integrating generative AI into production.

To achieve this, the company plans to implement a systematic and strategic approach to adopting generative AI, ensuring that it complements and enhances the skills of its developers. Additionally, Goldman Sachs intends to evaluate the long-term impact of generative AI on their software development processes and the overall quality of the applications being developed.

Goldman Sachs’ approach to AI implementation goes beyond merely executing models. The firm has created a platform encompassing technical, legal, and compliance assessments to filter out improper content and keep track of all interactions. This comprehensive system ensures seamless integration of artificial intelligence in operations while adhering to regulatory standards and maintaining client confidentiality. Moreover, the platform continuously improves and adapts its algorithms, allowing Goldman Sachs to stay at the forefront of technology and offer its clients the most efficient and secure services.

Featured Image Credit: Photo by Google DeepMind; Pexels; Thank you!

Deanna Ritchie

Managing Editor at ReadWrite

Deanna is the Managing Editor at ReadWrite. Previously she worked as the Editor in Chief for Startup Grind and has over 20+ years of experience in content management and content development.

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UK seizes web3 opportunity simplifying crypto regulations

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Deanna Ritchie


As Web3 companies increasingly consider leaving the United States due to regulatory ambiguity, the United Kingdom must simplify its cryptocurrency regulations to attract these businesses. The conservative think tank Policy Exchange recently released a report detailing ten suggestions for improving Web3 regulation in the country. Among the recommendations are reducing liability for token holders in decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs) and encouraging the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) to adopt alternative Know Your Customer (KYC) methodologies, such as digital identities and blockchain analytics tools. These suggestions aim to position the UK as a hub for Web3 innovation and attract blockchain-based businesses looking for a more conducive regulatory environment.

Streamlining Cryptocurrency Regulations for Innovation

To make it easier for emerging Web3 companies to navigate existing legal frameworks and contribute to the UK’s digital economy growth, the government must streamline cryptocurrency regulations and adopt forward-looking approaches. By making the regulatory landscape clear and straightforward, the UK can create an environment that fosters innovation, growth, and competitiveness in the global fintech industry.

The Policy Exchange report also recommends not weakening self-hosted wallets or treating proof-of-stake (PoS) services as financial services. This approach aims to protect the fundamental principles of decentralization and user autonomy while strongly emphasizing security and regulatory compliance. By doing so, the UK can nurture an environment that encourages innovation and the continued growth of blockchain technology.

Despite recent strict measures by UK authorities, such as His Majesty’s Treasury and the FCA, toward the digital assets sector, the proposed changes in the Policy Exchange report strive to make the UK a more attractive location for Web3 enterprises. By adopting these suggestions, the UK can demonstrate its commitment to fostering innovation in the rapidly evolving blockchain and cryptocurrency industries while ensuring a robust and transparent regulatory environment.

The ongoing uncertainty surrounding cryptocurrency regulations in various countries has prompted Web3 companies to explore alternative jurisdictions with more precise legal frameworks. As the United States grapples with regulatory ambiguity, the United Kingdom can position itself as a hub for Web3 innovation by simplifying and streamlining its cryptocurrency regulations.

Featured Image Credit: Photo by Jonathan Borba; Pexels; Thank you!

Deanna Ritchie

Managing Editor at ReadWrite

Deanna is the Managing Editor at ReadWrite. Previously she worked as the Editor in Chief for Startup Grind and has over 20+ years of experience in content management and content development.

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