What is the future of a Qlik Developer?

[Fq95]

With the rapid advancement of AI, the emergence of numerous new BI tools, and the rise of no-code solutions, what does the future hold for Qlik Developers?

Could this career become obsolete in just a few years? Will there still be demand for BI developers in general?

I have several years of experience as a Qlik Developer, along with certifications, but I’m starting to feel concerned about the long-term viability of making a living in this field.

[JandreKillianRIC]

Hi @Fq95 

Your concerns are valid, given the rapid evolution of technology, especially in the fields of AI, no-code/low-code platforms, and business intelligence (BI). However, the future for Qlik developers and BI professionals in general is not necessarily bleak.

The Impact of AI and No-Code/Low-Code Solutions

• AI in BI: AI is increasingly being integrated into BI tools to automate tasks like data preparation, visualization, and even insight generation. Tools like Qlik Sense now incorporate AI features (e.g., natural language queries, automated insights, and predictive analytics).

• No-Code/Low-Code Platforms: These platforms empower non-technical users to create reports, dashboards, and even data pipelines without writing code. 

Implications for Qlik Developers:

• Routine tasks like creating basic dashboards or writing simple scripts may become automated or accessible to non-developers.

• However, complex data modeling, advanced analytics, and custom solutions will still require skilled developers.

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2. Why Qlik Developers Are Still Needed

• Complex Data Challenges: While no-code tools are great for simple use cases, they often struggle with complex data integration, transformation, and modeling. Qlik developers excel in handling these challenges.

• Custom Solutions: Many organizations require tailored BI solutions that go beyond the capabilities of out-of-the-box tools. Qlik developers can design and implement these custom solutions.

• Performance Optimization: As data volumes grow, optimizing the performance of BI applications becomes critical. Skilled developers are needed to ensure efficient data loading, processing, and visualization.

• Governance and Security: Ensuring data governance, compliance, and security in BI systems requires expertise that no-code tools cannot fully address.

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3. The Evolving Role of BI Developers

• Shift Toward Advanced Analytics: BI developers will need to expand their skill sets to include advanced analytics, machine learning, and AI integration. This will allow them to provide more value beyond traditional reporting and dashboards.

• Focus on Data Strategy: Developers will increasingly play a role in shaping data strategies, including data governance, architecture, and integration across the organization.

• Collaboration with Business Users: As no-code tools empower business users, developers will need to collaborate more closely with them to bridge the gap between technical and non-technical stakeholders.

[AdamBS]

I like the reply.  I think there is also an opportunity for a role change within the developer community - from pure development to coaching.  All those self-service users will get stuck at one point or the other, and whilst a Community like this is brilliant, some need a one-on-one.

[JandreKillianRIC]

Hi @AdamBS 

I agree - this is an evolving role, back in 2009 we (at least me) didn't even think about cloud never mind Application Automation, Data Flow and stuff like Data Gateway. These are all the "new" things we needed to learn and understand. With the help of AI, the normal end user might be great at building a simple solution etc but how does the data get there? How is this data maintained and "cleaned" to be trusted and presentable. That's the "new " role of the BI Developer according to me and this also includes the "more high end  / complex" applications that a end user might require but AI nor the user has the "know-how" and capabilities to create / maintain and scale this.

Regards Jandre

[AdamBS]

When we talk to clients about self-service we try get them to see the depth of BI solutions... in this way they can understand that although a lot of work can be done in self-service, there will always be the need for the professional BI: