According to the 2024 DORA Report, 76% of developers incorporate generative AI into their workflows, with 89% of organizations prioritizing its adoption. These tools are used primarily for faster coding, improved documentation, and summarizing information. Despite widespread usage, questions about the impact on developer productivity and well-being persist, prompting a dedicated DORA report on generative AI´s influence.
The research indicates a 25% increase in individual AI adoption can boost productivity by 2.1%. However, paradoxically, the increased use of AI tools reportedly reduces time spent on valuable work while leaving time on toilsome tasks unchanged. Further, the adoption of AI is linked to decreased delivery stability, attributed to larger batches of AI-assisted code complicating code reviews.
While AI tools help developers spend more time in a flow state, increase job satisfaction, and reduce burnout, users report unchanged time on menial tasks and less on valuable work. Researchers recommend five strategies for maximizing AI´s value: using AI across processes, recognizing the effort in AI usage, presenting AI as a learning opportunity, rewarding outcomes over time spent, and allowing developers to opt-out of AI in enjoyable tasks. The Shift Conference in Miami will further explore AI´s future with industry experts.
