Why Software Engineering Still Matters in Web App Development Amid AI Coding Tools

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Software engineering goes beyond writing code, encompassing planning, design, development, testing, deployment, and maintenance of systems. The article notes that AI-driven 'vibe coding', where code is generated from plain-language prompts, is gaining popularity and can speed up development. It warns that relying on such generated code without review, testing, or security measures can lead to vulnerabilities, poor quality, and privacy risks. Using a school registration system as an example, it illustrates how unvalidated AI-built applications could allow duplicate registrations or exposure of student data. The piece recommends combining AI tools with established practices such as requirement analysis, careful code review, security safeguards, and regular testing.

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