Worth Reading: Why We've Tried to Replace Developers Every Decade
The recurring notion of replacing developers with new technologies, from COBOL to AI, often fails, though these innovations can be valuable when applied conservatively.
MAIN POINTS
- The idea of replacing developers has been around since the introduction of COBOL.
- Past trends like 5GL and forms-driven programming promised to simplify development.
- Excel macros were once thought to solve all problems, including networking inventory.
- Skepticism remains about new technologies fully replacing developers.
TAKEAWAYS
- Historical attempts to replace developers with technology have consistently fallen short.
- Each new technological trend brings initial hype but often requires conservative application.
- Technologies like COBOL and AI are useful within specific, limited domains.
- Skepticism is warranted when new technologies claim to replace skilled professionals.