Harnessing the Potential of Generative AI for Software Systems Development

Abstract

We stand at a pivotal moment in software engineering, with AI-driven approaches poised to enhance the development, testing, and sustainment of software. While Generative AI tools initially sparked excitement for their potential to reduce errors, scale changes effortlessly, and drive innovation, concerns have emerged. These concerns encompass security risks, unforeseen failures, and issues of trust. Empirical research on Generative AI development assistants reveals that productivity and quality gains hinge not solely on tool sophistication but also on task flow redesign and expert judgment. Drawing insights from the study “Architecting the Future of Software Engineering: A National Agenda for Software Engineering R&D” we will focus on the critical technologies and research areas essential for advancing future systems, with the overarching goal of making software a competitive advantage.

Our keynote panel will explore the future of software engineering using Generative AI technologies from multiple perspectives. We’ll examine current applications, envision future possibilities, identify research gaps, and identify critical skill sets required by software engineers and stakeholders to harness Generative AI’s potential effectively and responsibly. By fostering a deeper understanding of AI’s role in software engineering, we aim to accentuate its potential and mitigate its risks.

Panel Chair:

Anita Carleton, Carnegie Mellon University, Software Engineering Institute Executive Software Solutions Director, IEEE Fellow

Panelists:

Professor Lionel Briand, Science Foundation Ireland Research Centre for Software, Director

Dr. Ipek Ozkaya, Carnegie Mellon University Software Engineering Institute Engineering Intelligent Software Systems Technical Director

Dr. Alexander Poth, Volkswagen Audi Group

John Robert, Carnegie Mellon University Software Engineering Institute Software Solutions Deputy Director

Thomas Kropf, President Bosch Corporate Research and Advance Engineering