What is AI-first software delivery?

Spend any time chatting with a Thoughtworker and you’re sure to hear them talk about AI-first software delivery. It’s an intriguing phrase, but what does that really mean?

As you’ll see from the links below, generative AI has become a catalyst for reimagining what's possible in software development and knowledge work. But being AI-first isn’t just about finding innovative ways to use GenAI, it’s more than that.

AIFSD is a fundamental shift in our delivery model — one where AI is a first-class participant in the software delivery lifecycle. This isn't about creating AI-based products, but about Thoughtworkers using AI and all of the other best-of-breed tools to deliver value. It’s about how product managers define strategy, how designers explore options, how testers generate scenarios, how teams collaborate, learn and improve. Every discipline is exploring, adapting and evolving our practices to amplify impact using AI.

Why are we doing this? It’s not because we think AI is the latest bandwagon to jump on. Rather, it’s because the software delivery industry is at an inflexion point, much as it was when we led the way with Agile practices. It’s a recognition that to get ahead, our clients don’t just need a break-fix approach to keep their software running or to simply increase the number of features their dev teams ship — they need a new approach to how they build software. One that lets them achieve more with less.

Accelerating mainframe modernization using generative AI

Mainframe modernization is hard: understanding legacy codebases is difficult and expensive. In this podcast, we explore how generative AI can help. We’re joined by Mechanical Orchard CEO, Rob Mee, to discuss the potential of leveraging generative AI tools for such complex projects and the wider implications for AI in software engineering. Listen for a fresh perspective on both legacy modernization and generative AI: https://ter.li/0a9u9i

Time to stop paying for three-tier software support

The tech landscape has changed beyond recognition in the past 30 years. The models for supporting software haven’t. And the problem isn’t just that the old model is outdated, it’s that it fundamentally undermines enterprises’ ability to modernize — as each new patch adds to growing fatberg of tech debt. We think there’s a better way: using AI tools to streamline maintenance so not only are issues rapidly resolved, your codebase gets improved every time it’s touched. Learn more: https://ter.li/97eig7

Can vibe coding produce production-grade software?

The idea of letting an AI write production-grade code is both thrilling and alarming in equal measure. The promise of near-instant productivity — code at the click of a button — what’s not to love? Well maybe the prospect of unleashing torrents of barely readable and unmaintainable scripts into our codebases. In the best Thoughtworks’ tradition, Premanand Chandrasekaran set about exploring the limits of what’s possible by conducting some thought-provoking experiments. A must read ➡️ https://ter.li/au5s21 

Is your organization the leader you really think it is?

The rapid rise of AI is transforming industries worldwide — but not every organization is ready to harness its full potential. Where does yours stand? 

Introducing The State of AI and Digital Readiness report. 

We surveyed 1,000 senior leaders across industries to uncover how businesses are adopting digital strategies and AI technologies. Gain insights on key pillars such as enterprise modernization, data optimization and AI scalability. 

✅ 61% of leaders are setting the standard with fully integrated tech strategies.

✅ 93% of organizations agree continuous improvement is critical for success. 

✅ Leaders are 3x more likely to see a positive ROI on AI investments. 

With practical recommendations and real-world examples, this report is your roadmap to closing the gap between strategy and execution. 

Get the knowledge you need to propel your organization forward ➡️ https://ter.li/taga0o

Is Infrastructure as Code still relevant in the age of AI-generated software?

🗓️ Join us on May 22 for a live session with Thoughtworks Distinguished Engineer and author Kief Morris, in conversation with Lori King, as they explore the evolution and future of this foundational practice.

Don’t miss this deep dive into the third edition of Infrastructure as Code and why it's more essential than ever.

Join the live stream ➡️ https://ter.li/af20gl 

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