DevOps Paradox DOP 329: Vibe Coding and The Technical Debt Time Bomb
Dec 17, 2025
Vibe coding is a new way to quickly generate code with AI, but it has limits for scalable applications. The hosts discuss three levels of software development: personal tools, internal applications, and public-facing systems, each needing different approaches. They use a cooking analogy to illustrate that simple meals can be made by anyone, but large-scale feeding requires expertise. The conversation also touches on the evolving role of AI in programming, emphasizing the need for experienced engineers to oversee complex projects and the future of pair programming with AI agents.
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Vibe Coding Fits Personal Tools
- Vibe coding is great for personal tooling and quick proofs of concept.
- It breaks down when apps need to scale or be maintained long-term.
Three Levels Of Software Use
- The hosts define three levels: personal tooling, internal apps, and public-facing systems.
- Each level demands different engineering rigor and oversight.
Treat Vibe Code As A Spec, Then Rebuild
- Do consider a rewrite when experienced engineers say it's faster than untangling vibed code.
- Use the vibed app as a specification to rebuild correctly rather than force patching it.