2023 Year in Review: AI/LLMs, Tech Leadership, Platform Engineering, and Architecture + Data
Jan 15, 2024
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Thomas Betts, Wes Reisz, Shane Hastie, Srini Penchikala, and Daniel Bryant discuss technology trends in 2023, including AI/LLMs in software delivery and technical leadership. They also explore the integration of software architecture and data engineering. Topics covered include responsible AI, open-source software licensing, and the future of AI in job prospects.
Cloud modernization requires a mindset focused on rearchitecture, global scale databases, and cultural reset.
AI tools like LLMs can enhance productivity but require good programming skills and ethical use.
Open source software thrives but faces challenges like sustainable funding models and managing dependencies.
Deep dives
Cloud Migration and Modernization
Cloud migration and modernization involves more than just technology, it is a way of thinking. Moving to the cloud requires reimagining and resetting how systems are built and architected. It is important to consider factors like rearchitecture, global scale databases, and cultural reset to fully embrace the benefits of the cloud. Enterprises are still adopting and migrating to the cloud, and it is crucial to approach cloud modernization with a mindset that focuses on making things ephemeral, elastic, and API-driven.
The Role of AI in Software Development
AI tools, such as large language models (LLMs) like CoPilot and chat GPT, are becoming more prevalent in the software development space. These tools can augment developers' work, helping them understand code, improve productivity, and generate code snippets. While AI can enhance productivity and assist with tasks like unit test generation, it is important to note that good programming skills and sound architectural principles are still essential. The responsible and ethical use of AI in software development is a growing concern, with a focus on ensuring fairness, reducing bias, and maintaining privacy.
Challenges in Open Source and OSS Licensing
Open source software (OSS) remains a vital part of the software development landscape, with widespread adoption and contributions from a community of developers. However, there are challenges to address, such as maintaining sustainable funding models for open source projects and ensuring proper documentation and understanding of dependencies. The software bill of materials (SBOM) concept has emerged as a way to track and manage OSS dependencies for better security and vulnerability management. While OSS continues to thrive, there is a need to explore new models for supporting and maintaining open source projects, especially as they become increasingly critical components in enterprise software development.
Architecture decisions and evolution
Architects face the challenge of knowing when to make drastic changes to their architecture decisions. Factors such as development headaches and cost of ownership need to be considered. While the criteria for a decision may have been right at the time, it might no longer be the case. The key is to evaluate the situation and make informed decisions based on evolving factors.
Sustainability in technology
Sustainability is becoming increasingly important in the technology space. There is a growing awareness of the carbon footprint generated by the technology industry and the need for better practices. Adopting a frugal approach and considering the environmental impact of architecture choices is essential. Companies should strive to build low-impact technology that enables them to operate in degraded environments and reduce their carbon impact. Sustainability should be a priority for organizations, benefiting their customers, the planet, and the bottom line.
In this special year-end wrap-up podcast Thomas Betts, Wes Reisz, Shane Hastie, Srini Penchikala, and Daniel Bryant reflect on technology trends in 2023 and discuss what they hope to see in 2024. Topics explored included: the use of AI and LLMs within software delivery, the changing role of technical leadership, and the increasing integration of software architecture and data engineering.
Read a transcript of this interview: https://bit.ly/47CN5tR
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