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10/29/2025 14:55

DFKI and Accenture publish joint white paper “Generative AI in Software Engineering

Heike Leonhard DFKI Saarbrücken
Deutsches Forschungszentrum für Künstliche Intelligenz GmbH, DFKI

    Generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) is fundamentally changing the way software is developed. In a comprehensive study with over 220 references, the German Research Center for Artificial Intelligence (DFKI) and Accenture examined the current state of the art and the practical implications of GenAI. The white paper outlines that the technology has the potential to profoundly transform the entire software development process, presenting both significant opportunities and new challenges for enterprises.

    The white paper outlines the technological foundations of GenAI, particularly the capabilities and limitations of large language models (LLMs). It describes the tools already available and explains the transition from the first AI code assistants to “agentic AI for software engineering” – advanced, autonomously operating systems that can perform complex tasks independently.

    The study examines the use of generative AI across all phases of the software development cycle and illustrates how collaboration between humans and AI-supported tools can be effective. It shows that GenAI can support the entire development process – from requirements management to creative solution design, implementation, and monitoring and validation. This allows software developers to focus more on creative and conceptual tasks while automating routine work.

    The study also clarifies that integrating GenAI significantly boosts productivity and efficiency throughout the entire development process. At the same time, it highlights the quality of the solutions produced and the role of human creativity in the development of innovative products. The authors emphasize the importance of a holistic end-to-end approach: humans and machines must complement each other in a targeted way. The introduction of GenAI should be gradual, controlled, and continuously adapted.

    Despite its significant potential, the study points to key challenges. Successfully implementing GenAI requires substantial effort from enterprises. It demands considerable investment, specialized expertise, and structured change management. It is crucial to consider potential pitfalls alongside the rapid development of technologies and tools, enabling a flexible response to new technological advances.

    The white paper concludes that simply using GenAI does not guarantee a competitive advantage. However, companies that ignore technological changes put their long-term competitiveness at risk. Conversely, those that implement generative AI in a strategic, responsible, and comprehensive way can gain a lasting advantage in an increasingly digital economy.

    Contact:
    Dr. Christian Gerber
    Managing Director AI Solutioning, Accenture
    Christian.Gerber@accenture.com

    Press contact:
    Heike Leonhard, M.A.
    Communications & Media, DFKI Saarbrücken
    Heike.Leonhard@dfki.de
    Phone: +49 681 85775 5390


    Contact for scientific information:

    Dr.-Ing. Alassane Ndiaye
    Coordinator of the Accenture DFKI AI Partner Lab, DFKI
    Alassane.Ndiaye@dfki.de
    Phone: +49 681 85775 5396


    Original publication:

    https://www.dfki.de/fileadmin/user_upload/DFKI/Medien/News/2025/Wissenschaftlich...


    More information:

    https://www.dfki.de/en/web/news/dfki-and-accenture-publish-joint-white-paper-gen...


    Images

    Generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) has the potential to profoundly transform the entire software development process.
    Generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) has the potential to profoundly transform the entire soft ...

    Copyright: The Little Hut - stock.adobe.com


    Criteria of this press release:
    Business and commerce, Journalists
    Economics / business administration, Information technology
    transregional, national
    Transfer of Science or Research
    English


     

    Generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) has the potential to profoundly transform the entire software development process.


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