Futures

The Analogy of LLM-Generated Code and Particleboard in Software Engineering, (from page 20250420d.)

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Summary

The article compares LLM-generated code to particleboard, emphasizing its cost-effectiveness and suitability for mass production in software development. The author reflects on their skepticism towards LLM code, relating it to their background in carpentry and woodworking. LLM-generated code is seen as a practical solution for rapid development, akin to budget furniture, while hand-written code represents higher-quality craftsmanship, necessary for more complex and high-stakes software projects. The author concludes that while they appreciate the value of LLM-generated code, they prefer to continue writing code by hand for better quality and durability, acknowledging the software industry’s focus on productivity over craftsmanship.

Signals

name description change 10-year driving-force relevancy
Normalization of LLM-Generated Code LLM-generated code is becoming a standard tool in software engineering, moving from hype to normalization. Transition from skepticism to acceptance of LLM-generated code in professional settings. Widespread use of LLM-generated code in all levels of software development, enhancing productivity. The increasing demand for speed and cost-effectiveness in software development drives this change. 4
Shift towards Cost-Effective Solutions LLM-generated code offers a cheaper alternative to hand-written code for many applications. Shift from valuing quality hand-written code to embracing cost-effective LLM-generated solutions. In-the-field software projects increasingly rely on LLM-generated components for cost savings. Economic pressures in software development encourage the adoption of less expensive coding solutions. 4
Increasing Role of Less Skilled Developers LLM-generated code allows novices to contribute meaningfully to software projects without extensive experience. Shift from requiring extensive experience for coding to allowing less skilled individuals to participate. A greater diversity of contributors in software development, leading to innovative ideas and solutions. The democratization of coding through AI tools expands participation in software creation. 5
Decline in Emphasis on Code Quality The software industry prioritizes mass production and speed over high-quality code. Transition from high-quality, meticulously crafted software to quicker, mass-produced solutions. Corporate software environments may prioritize rapid output over software durability and craftsmanship. Market demands for fast delivery of software products are reshaping quality expectations. 4
Integration of Hybrid Approaches in Coding Experts may use LLM-generated code alongside hand-written code for efficiency in projects. Integration of LLM-generated code in projects traditionally reliant on hand-written code only. Blended development approaches become common, merging LLM-generated and human-written code. Need for efficiency prompts hybrid practices and innovative coding methodologies. 3

Concerns

name description
Quality Assurance of LLM-generated Code Mass-produced LLM-generated code may lead to decreased overall software quality and increased bugs or errors.
Dependence on LLM-generated Tools Reliance on LLM tools for coding could diminish traditional skills and craftsmanship in software development.
Durability and Maintenance of Software Solutions Like particleboard, LLM-generated code may not be durable, requiring frequent replacements or fixes.
Market Saturation of Low-quality Software The ease of producing LLM-generated code could result in an oversaturated market with many low-quality software solutions.
Reinforcement of Poor Coding Practices Using LLM-generated code might promote shortcuts in coding practices, leading to long-term issues in software architecture.
Overvaluation of Mass-Produced Code There is a risk that businesses may prioritize speed and cost over quality in software production due to LLM tools.
Innovation Stagnation Heavy reliance on LLM-generated code could stifle innovation and the development of new, higher-quality coding techniques.
Equity in Software Development Access to LLM tools may create disparities among developers, favoring those who can leverage these tools effectively.

Behaviors

name description
Normalization of LLM-generated code The transition of LLM-generated code from a speculative technology to a normalized tool within software engineering.
Mass Production of Software Components The utilization of LLM-generated code for the rapid and cost-effective creation of software components, particularly in non-critical applications.
Growing Acceptance of Cheap, Functional Solutions Users becoming comfortable with using lower-cost, LLM-generated code solutions instead of traditional high-quality handcrafted coding.
Separation of Craftsmanship Levels Recognition of different quality levels in coding, where LLM-generated code is used for non-load-bearing tasks while handcrafted code is reserved for critical aspects.
Reevaluation of Productivity vs Quality A shift in the software industry towards prioritizing productivity and speed of development over traditional quality metrics in coding.
Hybrid Approach to Coding The trend of combining LLM-generated code with hand-written code, using the strengths of both methods judiciously across software projects.
Evolution of Prompt Engineering The emerging need for skills related to effectively prompt and utilize LLM systems to improve productivity in software engineering.

Technologies

name description
LLM-generated code Large Language Model (LLM) generated code allows for quick and cheap software production, especially useful for mass production and novice programmers.
AI-based coding assistants Tools like GitHub Copilot enhance coding productivity and streamline the software development process through AI assistance.

Issues

name description
Evolving Role of LLM-Generated Code The adoption of LLM-generated code as a normalized tool in software development may challenge traditional coding practices and skillsets.
Quality vs. Quantity in Software Production The preference for mass-produced and cheaper software over high-quality craftsmanship indicates a shift in industry values and expectations.
Impact on Software Development Skills The rise of LLM-generated code may affect the skill development of software engineers, relying less on traditional coding skills.
Cost-Benefit Analysis of Software Quality There is a growing trend of prioritizing cost-effective software solutions over long-term durability and quality, similar to trends in furniture manufacturing.
Testing and Quality Control Trends The testing and quality control mechanisms may evolve from ensuring high quality to focusing on productivity amidst the rise of automated code generation.
Emergence of Prompt Engineer Roles The future role of ‘prompt engineers’ indicates a new specialization in the tech industry focused on LLM and AI code generation.