This episode explores the evolution of Uber's engineering practices and the impact of AI on software development, featuring an interview with Gautam Korlam, co-founder of Gitar. Against the backdrop of Uber's rapid growth, Korlam details the development of in-house tools like the SubmitQueue (for ensuring a consistently green main branch) and Local Developer Analytics (for measuring developer workflow efficiency). More significantly, the discussion delves into the challenges and benefits of adopting monorepos, highlighting the importance of robust tooling to mitigate potential drawbacks. For instance, Korlam recounts his accidental deletion of Uber's Java monorepo, showcasing the critical role of automated recovery systems. As the conversation pivoted to AI's influence, Korlam introduces "vibe coding," a new approach to prototyping that prioritizes achieving desired outcomes over strict adherence to specific methods. He argues that junior developers will thrive in this AI-driven environment, while senior engineers will focus on higher-level system design and problem-solving. Ultimately, this episode underscores the importance of a product-centric approach to developer experience, emphasizing the need for continuous measurement, iteration, and human-in-the-loop oversight in the age of AI-powered development tools.
