Can Programmers Without Strong Coding Skills Thrive in Large Companies?

It is true that some individuals in programming roles may not have strong coding skills but can still work effectively in large companies. This is due to a combination of factors including team structure, complementary skills, learning opportunities, and the availability of no-code/low-code tools. Additionally, networking and relationships within the company can also facilitate their success.

Team Structure and Collaborative Environment

Many tech companies operate in teams where roles are specialized. While some team members focus on coding, others handle project management, quality assurance, or user experience design. This collaborative environment allows individuals with varying skill levels to contribute meaningfully. For example, a team of 10 might be led by 2 senior engineers who handle 80% of the work themselves, while the other 8 still bring their unique strengths to the team.

Complementary Skills and Knowledge

Individuals may bring valuable skills other than coding to the table such as communication, problem-solving, or domain expertise. These skills can be crucial, especially in roles like product management or technical writing. For instance, a company with thousands of employees might recruit slowly and offer training courses for new hires, focusing on these complementary skills. Over a decade ago, some of my top students, who may have started with limited coding knowledge, have become technical leads or managers in large enterprise organizations after gaining practical development experience.

Learning Opportunities and Adaptability

Learning is a continuous process, and companies often provide resources and training for their employees. Some individuals may start with limited coding knowledge but can enhance their skills on the job. For example, at a company where capital is shifted to a new area while keeping headcount for financial reasons, less skilled developers might be retained due to their business know-how. This adaptability can help them contribute effectively to the team despite their background in coding.

No-Code and Low-Code Tools

The rise of no-code and low-code platforms has made it easier for people without traditional coding skills to build applications and automate processes. These tools enable individuals to contribute to projects even if they lack extensive coding experience. As a result, some companies may hire individuals who are proficient in other areas but have no strong coding skills, as they can still be valuable contributors.

The Role of Networking and Relationships

Building strong relationships and networking within the company can also help individuals find roles that suit their strengths. For example, a team of 10 might lose 7-8 members after 2-3 years, leaving the remaining 2-3 less skilled engineers to guide new hires and provide direction. Less competent managers might also hire based on the wrong criteria, leading to a team composed of inexperienced or less qualified engineers. However, their overall contributions can still be significant.

Conclusion: Not All Black and White

While coding is an essential skill in many tech roles, there are circumstances where individuals without strong coding backgrounds can thrive in large companies. This can happen due to team structure, complementary skills, learning opportunities, and the use of no-code/low-code tools. It’s not all black and white, but it is a reality seen in some high-profile cases.

Therefore, it is possible for mediocre developers to work in reputable organizations, thanks to the flexible nature of modern tech roles and the supportive environments that companies can offer.