Towards Shift-Up: A Framework and a Prestudy on High-Value Activities in GenAI Native Software Development
Vlad Stirbu, Mateen Ahmed Abbasi, Teerath Das, Jesse Haimi, Niko Iljin, Pyry Kotilainen, Petrus Lipsanen, Niko Mäkitalo, Maiju Sipilä, Venla Veijalainen, Tommi Mikkonen
Published: 2025/9/29
Abstract
Generative AI (GenAI) has significantly influenced software engineering. Associated tools have created a shift in software engineering, where specialized agents, based on user-provided prompts, are replacing human developers. In this paper, we propose a framework for GenAI native development that we call \textit{shift-up}, which helps software teams focus on high-value work while being supported by GenAI. Furthermore, we also present a preliminary study testing these ideas with current GenAI tools. Towards the end of the paper, we propose future research goals to study shift-up in more detail.