Building Living Software Systems with Generative & Agentic AI

TL;DR

This paper discusses the potential of generative and agentic AI to create adaptable, living software systems that can dynamically evolve and better align with human goals, addressing the rigidity of traditional software.

Contribution

It introduces the concept of living software systems powered by generative and agentic AI, proposing new pathways and skills for developing flexible, context-aware software.

Findings

Generative AI can serve as a universal translator for human intent.

Two pathways: accelerating traditional development and creating adaptive systems.

Reimagining software as a living, adaptable entity enhances usability.

Abstract

This paper is an opinion paper that looks at the future of computing in the age of Generative \& Agentic AI. Current software systems are static and inflexible, leading to significant challenges in translating human goals into computational actions. "Living software systems" powered by generative AI offer a solution to this fundamental problem in computing. Traditional software development involves multiple layers of imperfect translation, from business requirements to code, resulting in rigid systems that struggle to adapt to changing user needs and contexts. Generative AI, particularly large language models, can serve as a universal translator between human intent and computer operations. This approach enables the creation of more flexible, context-aware systems that can dynamically evolve to meet user goals. Two pathways for implementing living software systems are explored: using generative AI to accelerate traditional software development, and leveraging agentic AI to create truly adaptive systems. New skills like Prompt Engineering are necessary. By reimagining software as a living, adaptable entity, we can create computing interfaces that are more intuitive, powerful, and responsive to human needs.