The report, Software Engineering 2030: The Impact of AI, Future-fit strategies to deliver new value, laid out predictions of where software engineering teams can create competitive advantages in the next 5 years.

AI is impacting the full business landscape, and no where is this more true than in technology functions. AI is changing team structures, tools and capabilities of tech teams at a rapid pace, however only 16% or less of software engineering leaders believe their current processes, workforce and architecture are ready for AI.

When looking at the components of their operating models ready for AI, only 16% of software engineering leaders believe software delivery processes are ready, 14% believe their software engineering workforce is prepared and 12% reported that their software architecture was fit for purpose. 

In large or well-established organisations lots will have to be done to ensure organisations’ people and processes are able to adapt and successfully embed AI. 

With this in mind, Gartner has shared two key predictions for software engineering: “AI fuels the demand for more developers, not fewer” and “Developer creativity, not productivity, drives engineering success”.

Demand for Developers

Gartner has predicted that while AI will reduce the cost of development and increase efficiency, this won’t translate into smaller teams. Instead, teams of developers will focus on AI products that deliver value for customers. 

The World Economic Forum has also highlighted this trend, predicting a 57% increase in software engineering roles between 2025 and 2030. Developers who specialise in AI product development will be in high demand. 

Developers will be expected to bring creativity to the table, coupled with a customer-centric and product orientated approach. 

Recommended reading

• How Will AI Impact Software Engineers and Devs?
• Top 5 Strategic Tech Trends in Software Engineering for 2024
• Stirling Uni Study Looks Into How LLMs Can Improve Software

Creativity Beats Productivity

AI tools will make productivity a given. Therefore, software engineering success will be measured through other metrics. The elements which AI can not replicate, such as creativity and innovation, will be in high demand.

Organisations must prioritise building a team which brings creativity, innovation, problem-solving abilities and diverse perspectives. 

Creative skills including innovating, exploring, communicating and verifying will become more valuable than technical skills in an increasingly complex AI environment.

Ultimately, as AI changes the software engineering sector, those who combine technical expertise with creativity will be best positioned to maintain a competitive advantage.