Harmonizing Citizen and Pro Devs

Ever found yourself facepalming 🤦‍♂️ at the quality of some apps churned out by Citizen Developers? We've all been there. Here’s a fresh perspective…

CITIZEN DEVELOPERS aren't your traditional IT pros.

But neither are they trying to be. They're often the Excel and Access wizards 🧙‍♂️ With tools like the Power Platform, they've got more firepower to solve those problems.

Sometimes they become large valuable applications for the business, but that’s rare. More often they find ways to improve simple processes, often in places IT wouldn't even think to look.

Whether they’re ‘meaningful’ apps depends on context of the user. They may not always be driving the biggest financial return but can still dramatically change their day-to-day experience. Added up over an organization this this can create a large difference.

BUT... (and it's a big but)

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPERS are the game changers when you need that robust, enterprise-level solution. They can build at the enterprise level that’s needed, using the same tools but with that extra layer of expertise.

While Citizen Devs can bring the quick fixes, the Pros are essential for those apps that are critically meaningful (often financially) to organizations.

USE BOTH WITH INTENTION
The magic happens when we recognize the strengths of both. Citizen Devs for the quick wins and Pros for the heavy lifting. Together, they can create what’s needed in organizations.

Just don’t expect either to be something they’re not.

Next time you're tempted to groan at a 'sh#tty little app' (and I am), remember: It's all about getting the right person for the right job. Realigning expectations.

What do you think?

Get in touch to find out how I can help.