Content area
In this research, the potential impacts of low-code and no-code technology use and adoption on traditional software developers were examined. Existing research primarily focused on the value and benefits in productivity and efficiency associated with adopting and using low-code or no-code technologies. Therefore, this qualitative grounded theory study explored three research questions emphasizing the experiences and perceptions of traditional software developers influenced by these technologies concerning job security, job satisfaction, and skill valuation.
Job Characteristics Theory (JCT) served as the guiding theoretical framework, focusing on discovering perceptions and concerns related to traditional software developers' job security, job satisfaction, and skill valuation. The study investigated how evolving software development technologies such as low-code and no-code are likely to impact traditional software developer job characteristics. To gain insights, the researcher conducted open-ended interviews with ten participants associated with organizations on the northeast coast of the United States engaged in significant software development activities. The responses to the interview questions were analyzed using open, axial, and selective coding techniques and led to the discovery of the main themes and findings within the study. The findings revealed that, while software developers were open to using and adopting modern technologies, there were concerns that the prioritization of technologies limiting creativity, productivity, and functionality would fundamentally negatively impact their job characteristics. Another finding indicated conflicting views on the benefits and empowerment of employees using low-code and no-code technologies. Traditional software developers perceived this conflict as devaluing and increasing concerns about job security and career prospects. This dissertation contributes to the ongoing discourse on the evolving landscape of software development, providing insights into the intricate interplay between traditional software development practices and adopting modern software development methodologies associated with modern technologies such as low-code and no-code.