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From Software Users to Software Creators: An Exploration of the Core Characteristics of the Citizen Developer Role and the Related Re- and Upskilling Programs

Author

Listed:
  • Edona Elshan

    (Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam)

  • Björn Binzer

    (University of Hagen)

  • Till J. Winkler

    (University of Hagen
    Copenhagen Business School)

Abstract

The rise of citizen developers utilizing Low Code/No Code (LC/NC) platforms marks a transformative shift in the software development landscape. As organizations face a shortage of skilled software developers, this study addresses the urgent need to leverage citizen developers – individuals without traditional technical backgrounds who can effectively contribute to software solutions using LC/NC platforms. Through a multi-layered research methodology that includes a literature review, analysis of job postings, and qualitative interviews, this paper provides a detailed characterization of the citizen developer role and delineates the specific skills and competencies necessary for success. The findings reveal that citizen developers typically occupy supplementary roles within organizations, highlighting the need for versatile, cross-functional skill sets that meet the evolving demands of modern businesses. To address this landscape, the study proposes a comprehensive framework designed to facilitate the integration of citizen developers into organizational IT strategies. This framework underscores the importance of aligning of re- and upskilling initiatives with organizational goals while fostering a culture of continuous learning. By doing so, this paper contributes to the discourse on evolving IT roles and socio-technical systems development. It offers a strategic roadmap for harnessing the potential of citizen developers to mitigate the developer shortage and enhance organizational agility in software development.

Suggested Citation

  • Edona Elshan & Björn Binzer & Till J. Winkler, 2025. "From Software Users to Software Creators: An Exploration of the Core Characteristics of the Citizen Developer Role and the Related Re- and Upskilling Programs," Business & Information Systems Engineering: The International Journal of WIRTSCHAFTSINFORMATIK, Springer;Gesellschaft für Informatik e.V. (GI), vol. 67(1), pages 31-53, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:binfse:v:67:y:2025:i:1:d:10.1007_s12599-024-00915-1
    DOI: 10.1007/s12599-024-00915-1
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    1. Piva, Mariacristina & Santarelli, Enrico & Vivarelli, Marco, 2005. "The skill bias effect of technological and organisational change: Evidence and policy implications," Research Policy, Elsevier, vol. 34(2), pages 141-157, March.
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