Software and mobile app developers are in high demand and are valuable additions to any business. Yet, the news of a shortage of these innovative individuals is no longer shocking. One of the main technological sectors where this shortage is a big problem is in mobile app development. Finding an experienced IOS or Android developer is akin to finding a unicorn. But why is it so difficult to find a skilled mobile app developer? How does this affect companies, and what is the solution?

The struggle to find mobile app developers

There are several reasons why companies struggle to find skilled mobile app developers. The first thing we need to understand is that developers are intelligent and ambitious people often, looking for the best available opportunities. This leads many developers to specialize in either front end, back end, or full-stack development, where there are more opportunities and room for growth. Yes, some developers work within mobile applications, but there are other challenges to take into consideration. Other reasons that contribute to the challenge of finding a mobile app developer include burnout, or it can be down to the company. You may find the right app developer, but will they interested in the project? It is crucial to be clear about what is required from the developer and state the details of the project. For example, is it a daily build, are the bugs fixed before new code is written, is the work environment optimal, and are there testers? These questions must be answered and made clear to the developer if you are adamant about getting a mobile app developer.

How does this developer shortage affect companies?

With an understanding of why there is a shortage of developers, we have to ask ourselves, what is the impact this has on companies? The lack of mobile app development skills can have a severe effect on a business.  

If your company does not have a mobile app developer on board, it could result in the company having to outsource the project. Outsourcing a project to a mobile app developer in another country comes with its own set of challenges. Finding a reputable mobile app developer in another country can be difficult. Once you do find a developer settling on a price can be tricky. Another problem is the possibility of delays, usually, due to the outsourced worker, that can derail a client’s project. 

The cost and time expended are not the only issues to stem from the developer shortage. A lack of developers leads to a reduction in innovation. Due to the insight experienced developers have, they can often provide new ideas that were previously not thought about. While it may not seem like a huge loss, having a creative developer on board to contribute ideas can benefit a company in an impactful way.

Finally, one of the most crucial ways the developer shortage affects a business is by reducing company growth. A shortage of any skill can severely affect a companies growth. For companies to grow at a steady rate, they require a constant stream of new skilled employees. Being unable to recruit an employee with the skills needed means that growth will slow down until that position is fulfilled.    

The solution to the mobile app developer shortage

Fortunately, it is not all doom and gloom for businesses that require mobile apps. There is a breakthrough for companies looking to create mobile applications. They are no code mobile app platforms.

What exactly is a no-code platform? No-code platforms are drag and drop graphical platforms. This allows anybody to create applications without having to manually write any code. You do not even need to have past coding experience. 

The benefit of these platforms is that it is accessible to everybody. Both developers and non-developers can now create functional mobile applications. No-code platforms are popular among casual developers who want to develop simple applications for Android and IOS. By introducing employees to no-code platforms, companies can save on the costs of hiring a mobile app developer, and allow creative employees to simply create the apps required. This will save the company money, both in the short and long term. No-code platforms also reduce the time it takes to introduce applications to the market, as they are faster to create.

Providing companies with the ability to create their apps via a no-code platform reduces another barrier to entry within the industry – the ability to write code. Companies now have the potential to create innovative products without the need for a mobile app developer. No-code platforms are cost-effective, easy to navigate, and reduce the reliance on developers. 

No code mobile app platforms provide the best solution to the developer shortage and enable companies to progress with their mobile app ambitions. Now is the best time to begin using one for your company.