Building Apps Without Code: ASL Tutorials Using Vibe Programming

Written by Travis Dougherty, CEO of GoSign.AI

At GoSign.AI, we’ve started using a new way to build apps; it's called vibe programming. It lets you create real websites and apps fast, with no coding required. I made two ASL tutorial videos to show how easy and fun it can be.

Tutorial 1: A To-Do Reminder App for the Deaf

In this video, I build a task reminder app using Lovable.dev. Everything is done visually, no typing code, no wireframing. You’ll see:

• How I set up the app layout fast

• How I added buttons and reminders that are easy to see

• How I kept the design clean and simple

View the final build here - https://sign-sync-gold-blue.lovable.app/

It took just one session to go from idea to working app. That's something that used to take us days or even weeks. While basic projects like this can be completed and published entirely on your own, it's worth noting that more complex ideas might need developer support at the final stage. But for small applications like this task reminder, you can handle everything from design to build to publishing all by yourself!

Tutorial 2: A Doghouse Booking Website - FetchStay

This one is more complex. I show how to build an AirBnB clone website where people can book doghouses. Using Lovable.dev, I show how to:

• Build a gallery of doghouses

• Add a booking calendar

• Create a payment system with visual confirmation

• Include the positive reviews.

View the final build here - http://pampered-pup-palace.lovable.app/

With this doghouse booking concept, I successfully built a functional prototype focusing on the front-end user experience. However, to make it truly production-ready and publishable to the public, some backend integration with services like Supabase will be necessary. While this might require some developer knowledge for the final implementation, the visual framework and user flow are now completely mapped out and ready for the finishing touches.

Why Vibe Programming Works for the Deaf Community

Using these tools changed how our whole team works. It helps us:

• Test ideas quickly

• Build working prototypes

• Get feedback and make changes fast

• Create full tools without needing a full dev team

  
  

It’s especially helpful for Deaf creators. Now, everything is more visual than before. There’s no need to explain your ideas to a coder. You can just build it yourself.

When to Bring in Developer Support

When I build with vibe tools, I design and develop at the same time. Most of the time, there's no "handoff" from designer to developer. It's all one flow, from idea to finished product. But keep in mind - as your idea gets more complex, you might need some developer help. Once you start wanting custom functionality, complex third-party integrations, performance improvements, or advanced security features, that's your signal it's time to bring in some developer expertise.

Picking the Right Tool

• Lovable.dev is great for small standalone web apps like the reminder tool.

• Bolt.new is better for full websites with more screens and backend logic.

• Rork.app is better for mobile development

• Cursor.com is the best AI tool to fix and finish your unfinished project from other AI tools.

  
  

Deaf creators should pick the tool that fits their goal.  These tools are friendly for visual thinkers.

Prompting Tips That Save Money

Vibe tools like Lovable charge for each prompt you send. To save money, I follow a few simple steps:

• Start with an LLM to help shape the prompt

• Be clear about your main idea from the beginning

• Use images when you can—visuals explain better than text

• Make small changes instead of starting over each time

That way, we save time and credits.

Built for Deaf Users

In both tutorials, you’ll see:

• Interfaces that use less text

• Easy-to-follow layouts

• Visual feedback instead of sound

• Navigation that makes sense

  
  

These are design choices made by Deaf creators for our community.

The Technical Balance

While our tutorials showcase impressive results, I'm also transparent about limitations. In the Dog Booking Website video, there were moments where I needed to step outside the AI tools to solve specific challenges, particularly when implementing the booking calendar's complex availability logic.

These moments highlight an important truth: vibe coding tools accelerate creation, but technical expertise remains valuable. For Deaf creators new to development, these tools remove many barriers, but building relationships with developers who understand both the technical landscape and Deaf culture creates the strongest outcomes.

How Our Team Uses Vibe Programming

Even though I made these two tutorials, vibe programming is something our whole team now uses every day at GoSign.AI. Designers, developers, even folks new to tech, can now:

• Try out ideas before building the full app

• Make working prototypes to get quick feedback

• Change features fast based on real user needs

• Build simple tools & websites without waiting on a developer

  
  

This has been a big change for us. It helps our Deaf team members work without communication getting in the way. Everything is visual, so it’s easier for everyone to stay on the same page.

Join Us in Transforming How Apps Are Built

Since introducing these tools to our team, we've seen an explosion of creativity. Team members who previously saw app development as outside their domain are now actively prototyping solutions to challenges they encounter. The visual nature of these tools aligns naturally with visual-spatial thinking, creating an environment where Deaf creators can excel.

We're just beginning to explore what's possible, and we invite you to join us. Watch our tutorials, experiment with the tools, and share what you create. The future of app development isn't just about speed; it's about who gets to participate in shaping our digital world.

GoSign.AI: Building technology with the Deaf community, not just for it.