GenAI and Software Engineering: Strategies for Shaping the Core of Tomorrow’s Software Engineering Practice

The rapid integration of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) into Software Engineering (SE) transforms how software is designed, developed, and maintained, introducing significant managerial challenges. This study examines these emerging challenges and proposes strategic actions for managing SE in the future. We provide an overview of the current GenAI development within SE and analyze its implications across three critical pillars: People, Process, and Technology. Our findings indicate that GenAI introduces a dynamic complexity to these elements, demanding a combined managerial approach. We propose six strategic actions essential for shaping the future of SE practice. This study aims to help practitioners make strategic decisions regarding GenAI implementation and offers researchers insights into past findings and opportunities for further investigation.