What if you could solve your department’s tech challenges without relying solely on IT? What if building custom apps didn’t require you to write thousands of lines of code? That’s exactly where the role of a citizen developer comes in — and it’s transforming the way businesses innovate.

So, who are these citizen developers, and why is citizen development gaining so much momentum? Can non-technical professionals really build powerful digital tools? The answer is yes — and it’s simpler than you might think.

This comprehensive beginner’s guide breaks down everything you need to know: What is a citizen developer? What do they actually do day-to-day? How can you become one in 2025? And what tools and skills are essential to thrive in this fast-growing space?

Whether you’re a business user curious about expanding your tech skillset or an organization exploring the potential of citizen developers to drive digital agility, this guide is your starting point for understanding and embracing the future of work.

What Exactly Is a Citizen Developer?

A citizen developer is a non-technical employee who creates business applications using low-code or no-code platforms. Unlike traditional software developers, citizen developers don’t necessarily come from an IT or programming background. Instead, they are professionals — like HR managers, marketers, or analysts — who use app builders or web builders to solve real problems without writing full-scale code.

Thanks to the rise of low-code platforms, it’s now possible for virtually anyone with a good understanding of business needs and some tech curiosity to build apps that automate workflows, collect data, or enhance operations — without waiting months for IT teams.

What Does a Citizen Developer Actually Do?

If you’re wondering what a typical day in the life of a citizen developer looks like, the answer may surprise you.

A citizen developer might:

• Automate manual tasks using a drag-and-drop app builder
• Design internal tools for their department using a low-code platform
• Build dashboards for real-time data analysis
• Modify and improve existing apps using code generation tools
• Collaborate with IT teams to ensure security and compliance

They bridge the gap between business needs and technical solutions — turning ideas into digital tools without writing thousands of lines of code.

Why Is Citizen Development Becoming So Popular in 2025?

The rise of remote work, digital transformation, and the demand for faster innovation have pushed companies to think outside the box. Waiting weeks or months for IT to deliver internal solutions is no longer sustainable.

Here’s why citizen developers are trending:

• Faster time-to-market for apps
• Cost-effective development
• Empowered employees who solve their own problems
• Reduced burden on IT teams

And with tools like AI code generators and visual page builders, the barrier to entry has never been lower.

How Can You Become a Citizen Developer in 2025?

Becoming a citizen developer in 2025 doesn’t require a background in software engineering. It requires curiosity, a problem-solving mindset, and a willingness to experiment with technology. Here’s how you can get started:

1. Understand the Problem You Want to Solve

Before diving into any tools, clearly define a real business problem — like manual approvals or data entry — and how an app could simplify or automate that process efficiently.

2. Explore Low-Code and No-Code Platforms

Start experimenting with platforms like:

• FAB Builder
• Fliplet
• Airtable
• PowerApps
• OutSystems

These platforms are designed with non-developers in mind, offering drag-and-drop UI, data connectors, and workflow automation.

3. Learn the Basics of App Logic and Workflow Design

Even without coding, grasping core concepts like conditional logic, workflows, and basic data structure will empower you to create smarter, more functional applications with ease.

4. Start Small and Scale Gradually

Begin with manageable projects like digital forms, checklists, or internal tools to build your confidence and gradually take on more complex apps as your skills grow.

5. Work Collaboratively With IT Teams

Treat IT as a collaborative partner. Work with them to ensure your apps are secure, follow company policies, and can scale properly as your business needs evolve.

6. Join the Citizen Development Community

Tap into the global citizen developer network. Join LinkedIn groups, Reddit forums, or low-code communities to get feedback, stay inspired, and continuously improve your skills.

What Skills Does a Citizen Developer Need in 2025?

Being a successful citizen developer requires more than just using a drag-and-drop interface. Here are some of the most important skills you’ll need to cultivate:

Business Analysis

Understanding how business processes work — and identifying opportunities for improvement — is critical. You need to be able to analyze workflows and recognize where automation or digital tools can add value.

Problem-Solving

Citizen developers are natural problem-solvers. You should be able to approach challenges creatively, identify root causes, and design user-friendly solutions that deliver results.

Digital Tool Proficiency

While you may not need to code, you should be comfortable using digital platforms such as app builders, workflow managers, and data visualization tools. Familiarity with tools like FAB Builder, PowerApps, and Airtable can significantly enhance your efficiency.

UX and Interface Design

Creating an app is not just about functionality — it’s also about usability. A good citizen developer considers the user experience, ensuring that the interface is intuitive and accessible to everyone who will use it.

Communication and Collaboration

Citizen developers often act as liaisons between business units and IT teams. You must be able to clearly explain your ideas, gather feedback, and communicate effectively with stakeholders across departments.

What Tools Do Citizen Developers Use?

There is a wide range of tools available to support citizen developers. Each tool offers different capabilities depending on the complexity of the application and the level of customization needed.

Low-Code Platforms

These platforms strike a balance between simplicity and flexibility. They offer visual interfaces while allowing limited custom code input for more advanced customization.

• OutSystems
• Mendix
• FAB Builder
• Microsoft Power Apps

No-Code Platforms

Best for quick, lightweight apps, these tools are completely code-free and ideal for automating everyday tasks.

• Airtable
• Zapier
• Bubble
• FAB Studio

AI Code Generators

AI-driven platforms assist in creating code or logic structures automatically, making it easier for users to build apps without understanding syntax.

• FAB Builder
• GitHub Copilot
• Replit AI

Prototyping and Design Tools

These tools are useful for visualizing your app before building it.

• Figma
• Adobe XD
• Miro

What Is FAB Builder and Why Should Citizen Developers Know About It?

If you’re serious about entering the world of citizen development, you should definitely get to know FAB Builder — a next-gen low-code platform designed to simplify application development through its powerful yet intuitive interface.

FAB Builder enables non-developers to build powerful applications with ease by offering:

• Ai assisted app development
• Visual workflows that are easy to manage
• An integrated code generator for developers who want more customization
• Support for One-Click Deployment, which means you can deploy apps without any complex setup
• Scalability for both small internal tools and larger enterprise apps

What makes FAB Builder particularly unique is how it blends the power of traditional code with the accessibility of no-code platforms, giving users flexibility as they grow in skill.

Whether you’re building a form-based tool or a fully functional dashboard, FAB Builder is designed to support both beginner and advanced users — making it a great choice for aspiring citizen developers.

Can Citizen Developers Replace Traditional Developers?

Not exactly. Citizen developers are not here to replace IT or software engineers — they’re here to complement them.

In fact, many organizations now operate with fusion teams where IT experts and business users collaborate to build powerful solutions faster.

Think of citizen developers as the first responders to business needs — solving problems quickly and efficiently, while more complex systems remain in the hands of professional developers.

What Challenges Do Citizen Developers Face?

Becoming a citizen developer isn’t without hurdles. Here are a few challenges to be aware of:

• Security risks can arise when applications are created without proper oversight and validation from the IT department.
• Some no-code tools offer limited scalability, making it hard to support complex or enterprise-level applications.
• Integration with existing legacy systems can be difficult without proper APIs or technical knowledge.
• Without governance, app sprawl can occur, leading to duplicated efforts, inconsistent data, and lack of oversight.

The key is to establish a governance framework, educate users, and maintain a strong partnership with the IT team.

What Does the Future Hold for Citizen Developers?

As technology continues to evolve, citizen development is expected to become even more prevalent. AI-powered platforms will continue to improve, reducing the learning curve and enabling even more sophisticated app creation. Organizations that embrace citizen development will gain a competitive advantage by responding faster to market demands, reducing operational costs, and fostering a culture of innovation.

With platforms like FAB Builder leading the charge, the future of app development is no longer confined to the IT department. It’s in the hands of employees who understand the business, are eager to solve problems, and are empowered with the right tools.

Final Thoughts: Is Citizen Development Right for You?

If you enjoy solving problems, have a solid understanding of your business environment, and want to build impactful solutions without learning to code, then becoming a citizen developer might be your next career move. The tools are accessible, the learning curve is manageable, and the opportunities for growth are immense.

As we move into 2025, citizen developers will continue to play a pivotal role in shaping how businesses operate and innovate. Now is the perfect time to explore platforms like FAB Builder, start experimenting, and contribute to a smarter, faster, and more agile digital future.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do citizen developers need to know how to code?
No, citizen developers typically use low-code or no-code platforms, which allow them to build apps without writing complex code. However, understanding basic logic and workflows is helpful.

2. What is the difference between a developer and a citizen developer?
Traditional developers write code from scratch and often work in IT departments, while citizen developers are business users who create applications using visual tools with little to no coding required.

3. Can citizen development be used in large organizations?
Yes, many large organizations encourage citizen development to speed up internal innovation and reduce pressure on IT teams. It’s often paired with governance models for security and oversight.

4. What types of apps can citizen developers build?
Citizen developers can build internal tools such as approval workflows, data entry forms, dashboards, task trackers, and more using app builders and low-code platforms.

5. Is FAB Builder suitable for beginners?
Yes, FAB Builder is designed with both beginners and advanced users in mind. Its drag-and-drop page builder, code generator, and one-click deployment make it ideal for new citizen developers.