When software becomes fast food

Overview The post explores the rapid adoption of generative AI tools like ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini, and how they are changing the economics of software creation. It likens the shift to fast food versus haute cuisine, arguing that while code can now be produced cheaply and quickly, maintaining quality, architectural integrity, and strategic decision-making becomes the new competitive advantage.

Key Takeaways

• AI dramatically accelerates code generation, creating a surge in low-cost software output.
• The main bottlenecks move from implementation to deployment, quality assurance, and governance.
• Expert judgment and deep architectural expertise become more valuable as routine coding becomes commoditized.
• Leaders must focus on processes, standards, and talent development to avoid exponential complexity and errors.

Who Would Benefit

• Engineering managers overseeing large development teams.
• CTOs and technical leaders shaping product strategy.
• Architects and senior engineers responsible for system design and integration.
• Anyone interested in the strategic impact of AI on software delivery.

Frameworks and Methodologies

• Wardley Mapping (referenced for understanding commodity vs custom phases).
• Standard DevOps and continuous delivery practices to handle faster release cycles.
• Governance and code review processes to maintain quality at scale.