The advancement of AI technology has brought significant changes to the software development field. One of the most impactful developments has been the emergence of ChatGPT. Many developers are shocked by the efficiency of this tool, feeling that their abilities have been rendered powerless. However, some see this situation as an opportunity. Today, we will look at the attitude developers should adopt in the age of AI and how to adapt to these changes.
1. The Emergence of ChatGPT: Developers’ Shock and Disbelief
ChatGPT was first introduced on November 30, 2022. In just a year and a half, it has delivered a massive blow to many developers. This is because AI tools can replace not only simple coding tasks but also problem-solving, code review, and other core developer skills. In this context, Kent Beck, known as the creator of TDD (Test-Driven Development) and a master in software development, made a shocking confession on Twitter. He stated that after using ChatGPT, 90% of the value of his skills had disappeared.
His confession resonated with many developers. However, he did not stop there. He added that the remaining 10% of his skills could now have 1,000 times more leverage than before. This implies that AI tools are not just a threat to developer jobs but could also create new opportunities.
2. What Does It Mean That 90% of Skills Are Useless?
Kent Beck mentioned on Twitter that “90% of my skills are now useless.” This means that most of the development skills he had built over time can now be replaced by AI. In other words, routine development tasks such as coding, documentation, and bug fixes can now be handled faster and more accurately by AI tools.
However, he emphasized that the disappearance of this 90% of skills does not mean we should despair. Instead, it presents an opportunity to achieve greater results with the remaining 10% of skills. Skills such as creative and critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication remain areas where developers can still produce better outcomes by leveraging AI tools.
3. The Opportunity Presented by the Remaining 10% of Skills
The 10% of skills Kent Beck referred to are areas where AI cannot easily replace humans. For instance, creative tasks such as designing complex systems or coming up with new problem-solving approaches are areas where AI struggles. This means developers can now focus on higher-level tasks beyond simple coding.
He also stated that by utilizing AI tools, developers have the chance to work more efficiently. For example, ChatGPT automates routine tasks like code completion and bug fixing, allowing developers to focus on more important work. This enables developers to work smarter and create greater value.
4. Collaborating with AI: A New Survival Strategy for Developers
Kent Beck’s confession offers not just a warning, but a new survival strategy for developers. While some may feel that AI has rendered part of their skills obsolete, he argues that we should view this situation as an opportunity. AI tools can help developers work more efficiently while enhancing their creativity and problem-solving abilities.
By using ChatGPT, developers can find new solutions to complex problems or better understand and analyze large codebases. These tools help developers break free from existing frameworks and offer more creative and innovative solutions. Therefore, it is crucial to view AI not as a threat but as a tool that supplements and enhances our abilities.
Conclusion: The Attitude Developers Should Adopt in the Age of AI
The emergence of AI presents developers with significant challenges and demands for change. However, we need not view this change as merely a threat. Instead, it can be an opportunity to create new opportunities and realign existing skills. By leveraging AI tools, developers can work smarter and focus on higher-level tasks.
Kent Beck’s confession resonated deeply with many developers. As developers living in the AI era, how should we survive? Rather than viewing AI as a mere threat to jobs, it’s time to use it as a tool to supplement and enhance our abilities. Now is the time to become developers who create greater value by actively utilizing AI tools.