From Human Computers to AI - the history and future of software developers - Martin Mazur

Early software development began with “human computers” (mostly women) doing manual calculations in the 1800s before transitioning to electronic computers in the 1940s with ENIAC

The profession faced multiple “assassination attempts” through history - COBOL and 4GL languages trying to eliminate programmers, automation fears, and now AI - but adapted and evolved each time

Programming evolved from pure coding to a broader role including design, business analysis, collaboration, and problem-solving. Studies show developers only spend ~47 minutes per day actually coding

Major technological shifts that impacted the profession:

• Microprocessors and personal computers democratizing computing
• Internet and web development creating massive demand
• Cloud computing providing new abstraction layers
• AI and automation tools augmenting development

Key skills for modern developers:

• System design and architecture
• Business and domain understanding
• Ethics and supervision of AI/automation
• Collaboration and communication
• Creative problem-solving

Future scenarios depend on two key factors:

• Level of automation (high vs low)
• Access to technology (restricted vs open)

The profession continues shifting from technical implementation to creative problem-solving and value creation, with coding becoming a smaller part of the overall role

Having open access to technology creates more opportunities than restricted access controlled by few companies

Developers maintain relevance by focusing on high-value activities like architecture, innovation, and complex problem-solving rather than just coding

Success in the field increasingly requires understanding business needs and delivering user value rather than just technical skills