AI Revolution: Coding's End Signals New Tech Era

Artificial Intelligence is fundamentally altering the landscape of software development, according to Infosys co-founder Nandan Nilekani. He highlighted that AI adoption is occurring at an unprecedented pace, significantly faster than previous technological transitions like the internet or smartphones.

Nilekani suggested that the core role of tech professionals will evolve from writing code to managing and orchestrating AI systems. This necessitates a complete rethink of business operations, customer journeys, and operating models. New job categories, such as AI engineers and forensic analysts, are emerging to meet these demands.

The urgency to modernize legacy systems is paramount, as accumulated tech debt, high maintenance costs, and security risks can no longer be ignored. Nilekani stated that enterprises must address this debt to remain competitive, noting that AI tools can facilitate faster and more economical modernization, though implementation remains complex.

He also pointed out the increasing trend of enterprises building AI solutions rather than solely buying software, with agentic AI interfaces simplifying complex systems. The key challenge lies in successful execution and talent transformation to harness AI's full potential.