Is Coding A Dying Art???

Software developers have numerous concerns that can disrupt their sleep patterns. Previously focused on mastering algorithms in preferred languages like C, C++, Erlang, Java, Python etc., their primary worry now shifts to artificial intelligence (AI).

In this article, we delve into AI's role in coding and address the question: Will AI supplant programmers?

What is AI generative coding?

The adoption of generative AI has surged in recent years, driven largely by the availability of sufficient computational power to run deep learning algorithms and the vast amounts of data required to train machine learning models. Generative AI coding tools are revolutionizing the software development process. However, these advancements also introduce uncertainty. As AI takes on coding tasks, what implications will this have for software developers?

 Generative AI's potential is rapidly becoming evident, transforming industries and poised to drive innovation forward. According to a recent study by OpenAI, generative AI tools could impact up to 47% of all tasks, significantly expediting the software development process.In a survey conducted by Evans Data Corp, 29% of 550 software developers expressed concern about being replaced by artificial intelligence in their careers.

Researchers at the U.S. Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory predict that by 2040, advancements in machine learning and natural language processing will enable AI to write superior software code faster than human developers.

Oxford University's "The Future of Employment" study warns that as machine learning progresses, software engineers may face automation, with algorithms optimizing software design choices.

For industries like safety-critical software development, ensuring high-quality, functional code is essential. If AI is tasked with coding, ensuring error-free and issue-free results becomes crucial. This extends to AI's role in software testing, where its ability to detect coding errors surpasses human capabilities.To ensure safe, secure, and reliable code produced by AI, employing a static code analyzer is essential. This verification step is critical in maintaining quality and mitigating risks associated with AI-generated code.

 

Will generative AI replace coders?

Generative AI is unlikely to replace software engineers entirely. Instead, AI is already augmenting developers' capabilities by assisting in writing code more efficiently. Tools like ChatGPT, GitHub Copilot, and OpenAI Codex serve as AI-powered coding assistants, aiding developers in producing better code faster.These AI tools can swiftly generate high-quality code snippets, pinpoint errors and flaws, and propose enhancements to code segments. However, creating full-scale, production-ready code that spans extensive projects will still require human oversight and expertise for the foreseeable future.

 

AI driven coding in future

It will become effective at automating tasks and helping developers understand their options. And it will then let the human decide how to optimize for circumstances beyond AI’s understanding. Software developers are increasingly integrating AI as a coding partner to enhance software quality. This trend is already underway and is expected to grow as AI capabilities expand beyond generating only a few lines of code at a time. Developers are incorporating AI pair programming tools directly into their Integrated Development Environments (IDEs).

Similar to traditional paired programming with humans, AI tools collaborate with developers by executing coding tasks based on prompts. Afterward, developers review and refine the generated code. This approach contrasts with earlier, more labor-intensive methods, as AI can accelerate certain aspects of the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) faster than human developers. This efficiency allows developers to allocate more time to tackling complex tasks that require creative problem-solving and strategic thinking.

The question of whether AI will replace coders is a complex and nuanced one. Let's break it down:

Automation of Routine Tasks

AI and automation can certainly replace coders for certain routine tasks such as basic bug fixing, generating boilerplate code, or even some aspects of testing. This can free up developers to focus on more creative and complex problem-solving.

Specialized Tools and Assistants

AI-powered tools and assistants are already helping developers by providing suggestions, debugging assistance, and code optimizations. These tools augment the capabilities of developers rather than completely replacing them.

Complex Problem Solving

Coding often involves creative problem-solving, understanding business requirements, and designing robust solutions. AI currently struggles with abstract thinking, creativity, and understanding the broader context of problems, which are strengths of human coders.

Ethical and Social Considerations

Many aspects of software development, such as ethics, user experience, and social impact, require human judgment and understanding that AI lacks. Human coders are crucial in making ethical decisions and ensuring technology serves society positively.

 Continuous Evolution of Technology

While AI is advancing rapidly, so are the tools and languages that developers use. There's a symbiotic relationship where AI improves development processes, and developers contribute to improving AI tools.

Conclusion

In essence, while AI is revolutionizing certain aspects of software development and is expected to continue doing so, it's improbable that AI will entirely replace human coders. Rather, AI will enhance their capabilities, automate specific tasks, and increase efficiency. This will enable developers to concentrate more on strategic and creative elements of their work. The collaboration between AI and human developers is poised to redefine how software is created, making the process more effective and innovative.

Sources: programmaticponderings.com, .geekwire.com, medium.com, em360tech.com, linkedin.com

Compiled by: Shorya Bisht