My Journey as a No-Code Builder and the Genesis of the Cohort Program
Having spent close to 5 years building products with no-code tools since 2016, starting with Zapier, I felt compelled to share my knowledge and experiences with others. I wanted to empower beginners with no prior knowledge of these tools to build and ship their first no-code product.
It was this driving force that led me to conceptualize and launch the No Code Cohort program at The Product Folks, Asia's largest product community. The goal was clear: to provide a comprehensive learning experience that would equip participants with the skills and confidence to embark on their no-code journeys.
A Holistic and Immersive Learning Experience
To achieve this objective, we curated a program that brought together the best no-code platforms, including Glide, Softr, and Bubble. These industry leaders offered participants a solid foundation in the basics, serving as stepping stones for their no-code adventures.
However, the true value of the program extended beyond just platform-specific knowledge. We recognized the importance of real-world insights and mentorship, which is why we invited seasoned no-code builders and product creators to share their journeys and experiences. Their stories and guidance provided an unparalleled level of motivation and inspiration for our aspiring no-coders.
While self-learning is possible in the no-code realm, we understood that the completion ratio can be low without proper support and accountability. This is where the community aspect of our program played a pivotal role. By fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared goals, we created an environment that spurred participants on, raising the bar and encouraging them to persist in their no-code endeavors.
Key Responsibilities
As the Program Director, I led three cohorts of the No Code Cohort program. This role allowed me to spearhead multiple aspects of cohort creation, from planning and curriculum design to promotion and marketing.
My responsibilities spanned a wide range of tasks, including:
- Planning and Curriculum Design: I carefully crafted the curriculum, ensuring it provided a comprehensive and engaging learning experience for participants.
- Speaker Outreach: Leveraging my extensive network within the no-code ecosystem, I reached out to key stakeholders and influencers from platforms like Notion (Ambassador), Softr (CEO), Bubble (Growth Head), Glide (Growth Head), as well as independent no-code builders and agencies. This allowed me to curate a diverse and knowledgeable roster of speakers for the cohorts.
- Promotion and Marketing: I played a pivotal role in promoting the cohorts and driving awareness through effective marketing strategies, ultimately contributing to the program's success.
- Pricing Determination: I carefully evaluated various factors and determined the optimal pricing structure for the cohorts, balancing accessibility and value.
Admissions and Program Execution
The admissions process was a critical component, and I took the lead in defining the criteria which was based on specificity of idea, feasibility, diversity, online presence, and co-signer and reviewed over 1,000 applications across three cohorts. Through a meticulous selection process, I shortlisted 100 exceptional candidates to participate in the program.
During the program execution phase, my responsibilities included:
- Hosting Workshops and Sessions: I conducted engaging workshops and sessions, sharing my expertise and ensuring a rich learning experience for participants.
- Feedback Analysis: I actively sought and analyzed feedback from participants, continuously refining and improving the program based on their insights.
- Assignment and Office Hour Coordination: I organized assignments and office hours, facilitating interactive learning and providing personalized support to participants.
- Mentorship and Student Support: I ensured that mentors and students received the necessary guidance and support throughout the program, addressing their queries and concerns promptly.
The program culminated in a capstone project final event, where I oversaw the judging process and evaluated the participants' projects. Throughout the entire journey, I managed and coordinated the efforts of a team of 10+ volunteers, ensuring seamless execution and a transformative learning experience for all involved.
Reflecting on this experience, I am immensely proud of the impact we created and the knowledge we imparted to aspiring no-code enthusiasts. It was truly a rewarding journey, both personally and professionally.
Here was the promo video for the third cohort in Jan 2023
And some of the speakers and mentors.
Shout-out from happy members.
