Viewed through the lens of systems thinking, AI introduces both leverage and fragility into the development lifecycle. In this episode, Duncan Mapes, Jason Ehmke, and returning guest, Chris Boyd break down how AI affects feedback loops, failure modes, team throughput, and the architecture of modern systems.

They explore the evolving responsibilities of engineers in an environment where code generation is partially automated, and discuss how AI reshapes design principles, mobile development approaches, and cross-team dynamics.

The takeaway: AI is neither a panacea nor a threat. It’s a force multiplier for teams who know how to use it, and a risk amplifier for those who don’t.

Top Takeaways:

• AI tools are revolutionizing coding workflows, allowing for rapid prototyping and iteration.
• The CLI tools like Claude and Codex are becoming essential for developers.
• The last 10% of a project is often the hardest, but AI can help streamline this process.
• Design and usability remain critical, even as coding becomes more automated.
• The economics of development are shifting as AI reduces the time and cost of building software.
• Open-source models are gaining traction, but proprietary models still dominate the market.
• AI is not just a replacement for developers but a tool for enhancing their capabilities.
• The future of mobile development may see a resurgence of native apps due to AI tools.
• Companies need to adapt their workflows to integrate AI effectively.
• The competition between AI models is intensifying, with new players entering the market.

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Duncan Mapes

Jason Ehmke

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