The New A.I. Software Process

As a software project manager or anyone with a stake or interest in the outcome of software, AI should scare and excite you.

Fear not, this post tells you everything you need to understand how AI fits into your existing software construction process. You’ll understand more of the true, underlying nature of software simply by reviewing the role AI plays in computer science.

Firstly, AI isn't going to replace engineers; in fact, it doesn't fundamentally alter the way experts achieve successful outcomes.

What does this mean?

You can think of your software construction as a few activities, some are design considerations, others are research and implementation details and still others guide the intention toward effective result.

The "Driver" And The "Navigator"

AI is your software "Navigator," in Extreme (Pair) Programming terms. The Navigator performs activities of investigation and exploration while the "Driver" is the one on the keyboard, focusing on executing the code and handling the compiler.

Any programming task begins with intent. What needs to be done. This reveals tasks and implementation details which then must be researched.

This role of Navigator, commands the bulk of time and effort, greatly outweighing the time spent crafting code. Many managers emphasize code reviews to enhance syntax and structure, but a far greater portion of programmer time is spent on research and implementation details.

Consider the following:

Initially, there were books, programmer manuals.

These resources transitioned to online documentation and Google searches.

Then came platforms like StackOverflow, which centralized these knowledge fragments.

The progression of Navigator tools and techniques underscores the effort invested and the exponential productivity gains achieved.

2024, The AI Robot Is Your "Navigator."

AI has unlimited access to knowledge, instantly. It's tireless and can suggest, research and explain. It can help find things, look up information, and explain stuff whenever you need without getting worn out or needing a break.

In short: AI is your perfect Navigator.

This one tool accelerates the bulk of programming effort in software construction, while still preserving the way experts achieve success.

There's no need to worry that AI will disrupt your software process. Let it write documentation, Docker files and Vagrant configs. Let it rewrite that javascript in Ruby. It's a powerful tool that expert engineers leverage to great effect.

While there are aspects of AI that are downright scary, its impact on your software process isn't one of them.

AI is transforming how we value and access knowledge. By improving our reach to information, it becomes the driving force that enables us to —Go Beyond.