In the rapidly evolving world of web development, no-code platforms have emerged as beacons of innovation, allowing users to create complex websites without extensive coding knowledge.
At the forefront of this revolution is Carrd, and no one knows its ins and outs better than Mark Bowley.
In this exclusive interview with Common Ninja, Mark shares his journey with Carrd, from his initial encounter to the unique features that make it a preferred choice for many, alongside his vision for its future.
The Interview
Common Ninja: Some personal information you are willing to share — any hobbies or interests?
Mark: My side interests orbit around the tech I use; I’m always tinkering with new tools and platforms, which not only keeps me engaged but also fuels my work.
Common Ninja: Can you describe your initial encounter with Carrd and what drew you to it over other platforms?
Mark: It all started when I stumbled upon a tweet from Ben Tossell about the no-code movement, which led me to Carrd. Its ease of use for beginners and the low-cost structure for experimenting with different ideas were the main draws for me.
Common Ninja: What are some unique features of Carrd that you believe are not available on other platforms?
Mark: Carrd's real charm lies in its simplicity and flexibility — features that allow for easy expansion and customization. Plus, it's incredibly budget-friendly, especially with a pro account.
Common Ninja: What aspects of the user experience do you love most about Carrd?
Mark: I love the platform's straightforward interface and the swift execution it supports. While I appreciate the complexity of tools like Webflow, Carrd’s simplicity and low cost is invaluable for rapid experimentation.
Common Ninja: Can you discuss any websites you’ve created using Carrd that specifically serve its user community?
Mark: Absolutely! Deck of Carrd was my first project, serving as a showcase gallery. Later, I launched Starrt, a resource directory and tutorial blog for Carrd users.
Common Ninja: What changes or features would you like to see added to Carrd in the future?
Mark: I’d like to see nested containers for more complex layout options and potentially the ability to build full multi-page sites to truly expand what Carrd can do.
Common Ninja: How do you stay engaged with the Carrd community?
Mark: I’m active across Facebook, Reddit, and Telegram, providing tips and answering questions. I also publish a weekly micro newsletter for Starrt. Engaging with the community gives me a pulse on what users need and how they’re leveraging Carrd.
Common Ninja: Lastly, if you were to start over today, would you choose Carrd again, and why?
Mark: Most likely, yes. I’ve grown quite fond of Carrd’s capabilities and community, though the vast array of tools available today makes it a tough call.
Conclusion
Mark Bowley stands as a shining example of the transformative potential of no-code platforms, particularly through his extensive involvement with Carrd. His journey from a curious novice to a seasoned expert illustrates just how accessible and powerful these tools can be, even for those without a background in coding.
By continually sharing his insights and innovations, Mark doesn't just enhance his own projects; he significantly enriches the Carrd community. His story isn't just inspiring—it's a clear demonstration of the evolving landscape of web development, where creativity meets technology in the most accessible ways.