Beginning of automation in software development
Automation in software development dates back to the 1950s when assembly languages were created. These languages simplified machine code into more human-understandable forms, marking the beginning of reducing manual coding efforts.
The discussion about AI replacing software developers began even in the 1960s, so do not think this is a new idea. Initially, it was just speculation centered around AI’s potential to automate tasks traditionally performed by humans. This conversation became more relevant in the 1980s with the arrival of expert systems and rule-based AI, which started to automate complex tasks in the development process.
Today, AI technologies like generative AI and natural language processing have, in a way, changed the dialogue from whether AI can replace programmers to how it can augment their productivity and creativity.
Is there a distinction between coders and programmers?
There is a great video on YouTube by the Applicable Programming channel about the difference between coders, programmers, developers, software engineers, and architects. The video illustrates that coders are like musicians playing to compose notes given to them.
In other words, a coder would typically be someone who writes code based on clear specifications provided to them.
In the context of this blog, I would emphasize that the distinction is in mindset. I do not believe when someone is saying coders will become extinct they are categorizing people. This can sound alarming, but the underlying message is more about the approach to work, the passion involved, the desire to solve problems, and how one utilizes AI tools effectively. It's not merely about the tasks they perform but how they engage with and adapt to evolving technologies and challenges in the field.
Read more on our blog and learn mora about AI and its limitations in software engineering - here
