AI will empower app developers—not replace them

Despite the rise of AI, the need for app developers isn’t going away. In fact, a 2023 ServiceNow-sponsored study by Pearson suggests approximately 95,000 new application developer roles will be added globally over the next five years.

According to ServiceNow’s special report on the impact of AI on tech skills, based on the research, only about 20% of app developer tasks will be either automated or augmented by 2027. Although relatively small, those changes will affect the app developer role. Developers must adapt in three key ways:

• Instead of storing, retrieving, and manipulating data for analysis, app developers will need to work with statistics and predictive models.
• Rather than conferring with system analysts, engineers, and programmers to design systems, app developers will need to focus on the retention and improvement of foundational IT skills.
• Instead of recommending equipment purchases, app developers will need to understand how to apply machine learning and AI.

High demand for human talent

Organizations will continue to depend on a human workforce that has the ability to perform tasks that machines simply cannot, and app developers’ communication skills and the ability to analyze data will be in high demand.

The automation and augmentation changes will free 4.2 hours per week for app developers to focus on tasks and projects that are more challenging and potentially more rewarding. Junior app developers will gain more than an hour on top of that (5.5 hours per week) to spend on learning new skills and creating innovative solutions.

Gaining and increasing app developer skills

Now is a good time to invest in an app developer career—even if you have no tech background or experience. RiseUp with ServiceNow and take advantage of training programs and resources designed to help anyone get started or advance in a tech career using ServiceNow technology.

The Application Developer Career Journey offers associate, professional, and expert-level courses to help established and rising app developers grow skills, reach milestones, and earn certifications.

Beginners can learn JavaScript and App Engine Studio, as well as get familiar with the ServiceNow user interface and fundamentals. Professional app developers will take a deeper dive into application development and learn about ServiceNow Integration Hub, UI Builder, and Service Portal.

Expert app developers can advance their careers through additional courses, including Automated Test Framework Essentials and Predictive Intelligence Fundamentals. As part of the expert-level curriculum, developers are encouraged to participate in events and contests.

From sniper to app developer

After 12 years in the U.S. Army in a variety of roles—including tank maintenance, recruiting, and sniper—Charles Muhlbach wanted to transition to a career in tech. Since he lacked tech experience, he wanted a tech program that didn’t require that. He found ServiceNow.

Muhlbach was accepted to the NextGen program, where he gained knowledge and experience in IT Service Management and ServiceNow administration and application development. Within a month of passing his ServiceNow Certified Administrator exam, Muhlbach landed a job as a ServiceNow developer. He credits the courses and the people who run them with his smooth transition out of the Army.

As AI continues to evolve, ServiceNow is poised to help people upskill and reskill to adapt to changing tech roles.

Find out more about how ServiceNow helps equip the workforce of the future.