An overwhelming majority (85%) of the global software workforce expects to use GenAI tools in the next two years, according to a new study
A Capgemini survey of nearly 2,200 senior executives and software professionals has highlighted the widespread adoption of AI among developers, where the technology promises to vastly improve efficiency.
Four in five software professionals believe GenAI will significantly transform their roles by automating simpler, repetitive and administrative tasks, freeing up more time for them to focus on meaningful work.
AI will transform software development
Despite being in the early stages of adoption, where nine out of ten organizations still need to scale up their efforts, those with GenAI initiatives underway have already reported things like increased innovation (61%) and improved software quality (49%).
The study also addresses the ongoing concern that technology may displace human workers. Capgemini revealed that organisations plan to use free time to develop new software features (50%) and improve the skills of their workforce (47%), underlining its role as a tool to assist human workers rather than replace them.
On the other hand, staff reduction was the least favoured approach: only 4% of the organisations surveyed considered doing so.
However, concerns have been raised about the legal and security risks that come with using generative AI in the workplace, as businesses fail to keep up with trends and worker demands. Nearly half (46%) of software engineers use GenAI, yet two-thirds (63%) of them admit to using unauthorized versions, which could lead to hallucinations, leaks, and other intellectual property issues.
Pierre-Yves Glever, Head of Global Cloud and Custom Applications at Capgemini, commented: “[Generative AI’s] The impact on coding efficiency and quality is measurable and proven… However, we must remember that the true value will emerge from a holistic approach to software engineering, beyond implementing a single ‘new’ tool.”
Glever concluded: “This involves addressing business needs with robust and relevant design, establishing comprehensive developer workspaces and wizards, implementing quality and security controls, and setting up effective software teams.”
