Expert Insights

Steve Brown explains that enhancing productivity in AI-led software development doesn't necessarily lead to job cuts; instead, it can catalyse expansion in output. He implies the decision to output more can significantly impact a company's trajectory, particularly if it's in a phase of innovation.

Steve offers a new perspective on AI and efficiency:

  • Discussing how increased productivity could lead to a tenfold rise in code output.
  • Exploring the implications of this efficiency drive for software companies, particularly in terms of innovation.
  • Highlighting the role of AI as not to replace but to facilitate the increase of creative and innovative work in software teams.

Quote

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If you could make your programmers, your development team 10 times more efficient, will you fire 90% of your development team or will you write 10 times as much code? You know, I think if you are a software company and you are innovating, you are gonna develop 10 times as much code.quotation-marks icon
Steve Brown ,
AI Futurist & fmr exec @ Google DeepMind & Intel

THE NEW DEFAULT angle

Here's an actionable guide to harnessing improved efficiency in AI-assisted software development:

    • Use Efficiency Gains to Enhance Output: Instead of viewing AI as a means to cut down your workforce, consider it as a tool to expand your capabilities.

    • Nurture a Culture of Innovation: If the development team becomes 10 times more efficient, foster a setting that leverages this productivity to develop 10 times as much code.

    • Align AI Strategy with Company Phase: Is your company in a growth or consolidation phase? The phase your company is in could dictate whether AI is used to reduce costs or increase output.

    • Redefine Roles without Job Cuts: Instead of laying off staff due to improved productivity, consider how roles can be reshaped to channel newfound efficiency into other impactful tasks.