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arXiv · 2411.16100

Bot-Driven Development: From Simple Automation to Autonomous Software Development Bots

Christoph Treude·Christopher M. Poskitt
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Abstract

As software development increasingly adopts automation, bot-driven development (BotDD) represents a transformative shift where bots assume proactive roles in coding, testing, and project management. In bot-driven development, bots go beyond support tasks, actively driving development workflows by making autonomous decisions, performing independent assessments, and managing code quality and dependencies. This paper explores how bot-driven development impacts traditional development roles, particularly in redefining driver-navigator dynamics, and aligns with DevOps goals for faster feedback, continuous learning, and efficiency. We propose a research agenda addressing challenges in bot-driven development, including skill development for developers, human-bot trust dynamics, optimal interruption frequency, and ethical considerations. Through empirical studies and prototype systems, our aim is to define best practices and governance structures for integrating bot-driven development into modern software engineering.

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Christoph Treude, Christopher M. Poskitt. 2024-11-25. Bot-Driven Development: From Simple Automation to Autonomous Software Development Bots. https://doi.org/10.1109/botse67031.2025.00012

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