ChatGPT's role in shaping the future of software engineering

The excitement surrounding ChatGPT has escalated to an unprecedented level, positioning it as one of the most popular generative AI (GenAI) applications. As generative AI tools like ChatGPT catches on, workers from various fields are coming to terms with the potential implications on their roles. They are also growing curious about the opportunities this technology could create.

So, what do tools like ChatGPT mean for people whose jobs involve coding or those who are learning to code because they want to have a career in technology? Will ChatGPT replace software engineers and programmers?

Let's discuss some of the information shared by Kunal Ahuja, General Manager, SkillSoft, on learning and collaborating with AI tools is key for future success in tech roles.

FUTURE OF SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT

Since the Industrial revolution, people have been concerned that automation and machines will replace human workers. ChatGPT is changing how software developers and engineers do their jobs and has the potential to make them more productive and efficient.

However, it is important to note that GenAI should not be regarded as a substitute for human programmers. While it brings valuable advancements, it does not serve as a direct replacement for the unique skills and expertise that human programmers possess.

LEVERAGING CHATGPT IN TECH ROLES

In specific tech roles, there are countless ways that workers can and will continue to use AI tools like ChatGPT to support and optimise their work. Some examples include troubleshooting code directly instead of relying on search or online forums, using ChatGPT as a coding assistant for handling mundane tasks, and using it to explain complicated concepts in simple language.

UNDERSTANDING CHATGPT'S LIMITATIONS

One major limitation is that ChatGPT cannot distinguish between fact and fiction. In essence, it relies on its training to make educated assumptions about the information a user seeks without the contextual understanding that a human would possess. While ChatGPT excels at generating language, it is essential to note that this proficiency does not equate to having genuine, intelligent, and factually informed thoughts.

WHY PROGRAMMERS SHOULD LEARN ABOUT THE CHATGPT

ChatGPT is a tool that has the potential to help many professionals, including programmers, become more productive and efficient at work. Over time, technology will get more advanced and widely adopted, so this is a good time for aspiring and practicing programmers to learn about and get comfortable using the technology so that they are not left playing catch-up later in their careers.

FUTURE OF PROGRAMMING WITH CHATGPT

To do this, programmers need a comprehensive understanding of the technology, its potential impact on various industries, and its role in shaping the future. Additionally, they need to know how to communicate with ChatGPT properly. AI isn't perfect, and there's a method to writing prompts to help ChatGPT provide the best response.

In fact, there's an emerging subfield of AI - prompt engineering - centred around writing specific prompts to help generate and test code. It's a human developer's job to know what code should look like, and how a programme should work, identify bugs and take the necessary steps to remediate them. This is all part of the learning process. This part of the job doesn't go away with ChatGPT; it becomes even more important.

To this end, all technologists - including software developers and programmers - should start learning about the technology to ensure they're ahead of the curve. Pairing human intelligence with artificial intelligence presents endless opportunities.