Abstract
Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) is rapidly transforming software development, reshaping established coding practices and affecting developer efficiency. However, understanding how next-generation developers integrate GenAI into their workflows remains unexplored. This study addresses the benefits and challenges from the perspective of next-generation developers and how they utilize GenAI in real-world settings. Survey data from five cases, involving 21 next-generation developers, were thematically analyzed using an inductive qualitative approach. Findings reveal that next-generation developers use GenAI in various ways to enhance their software development work. These findings shed light on AI-assisted software development by evolving the role of GenAI in shaping the workflows, skill development, and professional identity of the next-generation of software developers. We contribute with a thematic map including five benefit and four challenge categories, divided into 28 sub-themes. Future research is suggested to validate the thematic map and to contrast the findings to cases in other contexts.
Recommended Citation
Balasuriya, Balasuriya Lekamalage Prasanna; Juell-Skielse, Gustaf; and Jordanius, Anders Hjalmarsson, "The Impact of Generative AI – From the Perspective of
Next-Generation Developers" (2025). ACIS 2025 Proceedings. 42.
https://aisel.aisnet.org/acis2025/42