This study extends citizen development theory by empirically validating and refining a comprehensive framework of technological, organizational, and individual effectiveness factors, providing evidence-based strategies for organizations to optimize citizen developer initiatives.
Organizations often face delays and reduced agility when relying solely on traditional IT departments to address business needs. Low-code/no-code (LC/NC) platforms empower non-IT personnel, known as citizen developers, to contribute to digital transformation. However, the factors maximizing their effectiveness remain underexplored. This study advances citizen development theory by (1) empirically validating the relationships between technological, organizational, and individual factors, (2) uncovering previously unrecognized moderating effects among these dimensions, and (3) establishing boundary conditions for effective citizen development implementation. Building on a previously proposed conceptual model, in-depth interviews with 14 industry practitioners validate and refine the framework, providing nuanced insights into citizen developers’ roles. Key takeaways include: (1) Technological features such as platform simplicity, maintainability, interoperability, and alignment with IT best practices are foundational enablers; (2) Organizational conditions—strong leadership support, balanced governance, and structured support through Centers of Excellence—significantly impact developer outcomes; and (3) Individual attributes like adaptability, communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and domain expertise critically influence long-term effectiveness. By integrating industry-driven insights, this study offers a comprehensive roadmap for leveraging citizen development to accelerate digital transformation while addressing critical organizational challenges.
Authors: Shakeel Muhammad, Victor R. Prybutok, Vikas Sinha
Link: https://doi.org/10.28945/5585
Muhammad, S., Prybutok, V.R., & Sinha, V. (2025). Unlocking the secrets to citizen developer success – Insights from industry experts. Muma Business Review 9(10). 89-103. https://doi.org/10.28945/5585