[jcynix]

Look at HyperCard (more or less dead, regrettably) or Excel and you'll see many useful "applications" created by non-programmers over the years.

People want to create, but need tools to make this easier / more abstract than regular programming. Most companies want to get them into their walled gardens instead, especially web-based companies today.

[rpearl]

you should take a look at TFA; both of those are mentioned in great detail! it's a good read