AI is not the demise of developers; rather, it signifies their evolution.

      Founders’ Takes is a new series highlighting insights from tech leaders who are transforming industries using artificial intelligence. In this edition, Steven Kleinveld, the founder of the applied AI lab Skylark, argues that vibe coding won’t eliminate developers; rather, it will enhance their roles.

      Recently, there has been much speculation that AI might replace developers. With new tools allowing users to create applications by simply providing prompts, many are starting to question: “Are developers still necessary?” The answer is a resounding yes — and their importance is growing.

      The excitement around no-code and “vibe coding” suggests that anyone can swiftly create a solid MVP. While tools like Lovable, Bolt, and Canva Code are excellent for quickly testing ideas, they do have their limitations when complexity arises.

      Expertise is still required, particularly in understanding backend logic, data flows, design systems, and UX choices. These are essential elements that contribute to a product's quality beyond mere functionality. This is where developers are crucial — not just any developers, but those who embrace AI rather than fear it.

      This isn’t the end of developers. It signifies a change in their work dynamic. It is well-established that large language models (LLMs) such as Anthropic’s Claude, Google’s Gemini, and OpenAI’s ChatGPT are advancing rapidly. Consequently, the quality of AI tools has improved significantly, enabling developers to operate with enhanced efficiency, thus increasing their value. This phase in technology isn’t about replacing developers; it’s about their evolution.

      AI will not supplant developers. Instead, developers who effectively utilize AI will surpass those who do not.

      To clarify, AI excels at handling repetitive tasks — generating code snippets, filling in boilerplate text, and even kickstarting front-end activities. However, that does not imply it can create a dependable, secure, and scalable product entirely on its own.

      As the CEO of Skylark, an applied AI lab, I realize how swiftly the field is advancing. Nonetheless, it will take years before AI models can fully manage the trifecta of reliability, security, and scalability without human intervention.

      Developers who understand AI gain a significant advantage.

      The true beneficiaries of this AI revolution? Developers who know how to leverage it effectively.

      For backend developers, AI can assist with less familiar front-end tasks. Full-stack developers can streamline their workflow, concentrating on the challenging aspects they enjoy. It’s akin to having an incredibly fast assistant — but ultimately, you are still at the helm.

      The essential factor is recognizing your strengths, your weaknesses, and where AI can bridge those gaps. This is what defines an “AI-savvy” developer, which is becoming increasingly vital.

      While vibe coding is entertaining, it won't take you the whole distance.

      We’ve all witnessed the trend of prompting AI to “just build this” with the hope that it will function correctly. It’s quick and enjoyable, and sometimes produces surprisingly good results. However, it can also lead to what I term ‘AI drift’, where your product gradually diverges from your initial concept as the AI introduces unnecessary features or misinterprets your intentions.

      Experienced developers can distinguish when something is amiss. They know when to intervene with the AI and make corrections. They can identify bugs or security concerns that the AI may overlook. Non-technical individuals often miss these indicators — which can lead to rapid failures.

      Thus, AI is not replacing developers. It's providing the top ones with an additional advantage.

      Not every founder will possess technical skills, but even those without a tech background must grasp how AI functions and, critically, its limitations. Knowing how to prompt an AI is one thing; understanding when its output is incorrect is a different skill entirely.

      In conclusion: AI is a tool, not a substitute.

      Developers who master working with AI will only increase in value. They’ll create faster, smarter, and with fewer personnel, but they will still be at the forefront of the process.

      So, if you’re a developer concerned about AI taking over your job, I would advise: don’t panic. Just familiarize yourself with the tools, keep your skills sharp, and discover how AI can enhance your abilities.

      This isn’t the conclusion; it’s the beginning of a new chapter. Developers remain very much at the center of the narrative.