Steven Kleinveld, founder of the applied AI lab Skylark, argues that artificial intelligence isn’t here to replace software developers—it’s here to make them better. Developers who know how to leverage AI effectively will gain a clear competitive edge over those who don’t.
No-code and “vibe coding” platforms like Bolt and Canva Code have made prototyping faster than ever. Users can build minimum viable products quickly, but these tools have limits. Complex applications require knowledge of backend logic, data flow, scalable architecture, design systems, and UX principles—areas where human expertise is irreplaceable.
A developer’s role is indispensable
Developers remain essential for building software that is reliable, secure, scalable, and user-friendly. Functionality ensures apps work as intended; reliability guarantees consistency; security protects users and data; and scalability allows growth without performance issues. AI can assist, but mastering these elements still requires human skill.
LLMs like OpenAI’s ChatGPT, Google’s Gemini, and Anthropic’s Claude have advanced rapidly. They can generate code, assist with debugging, and produce documentation, freeing developers from repetitive work. Yet, AI cannot independently deliver fully reliable, secure, and scalable products—human oversight is still necessary.
What AI excels at?
AI is great at repetitive tasks: generating code snippets, completing boilerplate code, or creating frontend templates. These capabilities speed development, but complex software still demands human intervention. Kleinveld says,
“It’s like having a really fast assistant—but you still need to be the one steering the ship.”
Developers who understand AI’s strengths and limitations can integrate it effectively into workflows. Backend developers can generate frontend code; full-stack developers can automate repetitive processes. Experienced developers can detect “AI drift,” errors, or security vulnerabilities that AI might miss, ensuring software quality.
Human judgment remains critical
Even non-technical founders must understand when to intervene. AI can automate tasks and suggest solutions, but human judgment is essential for correcting errors and maintaining quality standards.
AI is amplifying developers, not replacing them. It frees time for creative, strategic, and architectural work. Those who embrace AI will build faster, smarter, and more efficiently while keeping control over their projects. In the modern software landscape, the developers who thrive won’t fear AI—they’ll harness it.
