Trend Report

The Quantitative Employment Impact Of AI On The Software Development Lifecycle

Predictive, Generative, And Agentic AI Are Causing The Most Dramatic Shift In The SDLC In Years

 and  five contributors
Oct 29, 2025

Summary

The report explores how AI, particularly generative and agentic AI, is transforming the software development lifecycle (SDLC). While automation may displace certain roles, especially junior ones, experienced developers and creative tasks will remain resilient, with AI enhancing efficiency and creativity rather than replacing human expertise. Key impacts include gains in greenfield development, testing, and coding, with greater benefits when AI adoption shifts to earlier SDLC phases. The report advises leaders to focus on workforce transformation through upskilling and role redesign, leveraging AI strategically to empower lean, autonomous teams.

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