Solita and ISS have completed an experiment in which one team developed software with generative AI tools and another team without AI. The study shows that decisions are made up to 500 times faster and experimental processes up to 100 times faster.
Solita, a European technology and data company, and ISS, an international player in facility management and workplace management, investigated together the impact of generative AI on software development. In the “Gen AI Twin project,” two teams worked in parallel on the same digital tool. One team followed a traditional approach, while the other used AI tools at every stage of the process.
AI versus classical development
The experiment showed that AI tools significantly increase the speed of concept formation and decision making. Developers received immediate feedback on their choices, and AI asked critical questions about the purpose and functionality of the software. This forced teams to consciously think through each step. The method, in which AI continuously offered suggestions and improvements, was also found to promote collaboration within teams.
Changing roles
A striking conclusion from the experiment is that generative AI changes hierarchical structures within software development. Seniority becomes less important, while teamwork and an open attitude become crucial. AI takes over repetitive tasks, allowing developers to focus more on evaluation and decision-making.
In addition, the project introduced a new working method inspired by pair programming. One person gave AI commands while another checked the results. This helped filter out erroneous AI outcomes. At the same time, psychological safety within teams proved important, as not everyone is equally comfortable with this way of working together.
The project also involved customers more closely in the development process. Thanks to AI, they were able to provide immediate feedback and suggest improvements, making iterations much faster. Where this would normally take months, in this experiment workable prototypes were developed within minutes.
The study concludes that AI models they already have a clear impact on software development. Solita advises companies to systematically document AI methods and be careful with the data they share with large AI providers.