The App Delusion: Why Most People Don't Understand Software Development
A raw, unfiltered look at why most people fundamentally misunderstand software development, and how AI is amplifying this technological illiteracy.
Let's get real about something that drives me absolutely nuts: the massive disconnect between what people think an "app" is and what actual software development entails. I'm talking about the kind of conversations that make developers want to bang their heads against their mechanical keyboards.
The Fundamental Misunderstanding
Here's a scenario I've lived through more times than I can count: Someone enthusiastically tells me they want to "build an app" and then proceeds to describe something that's essentially just a website with delusions of grandeur. They'll ask questions like, "Can this work on Android and iOS?" without having the faintest clue about cross-platform development, native vs. hybrid architectures, or even basic technical requirements.
These conversations typically reveal a profound technological illiteracy that AI coding tools are about to make dramatically worse. Sure, ChatGPT can generate a basic React template, but that doesn't make you a software engineer any more than having a microwave makes you a professional chef.
The Rise of Mediocre Software
AI is democratizing code generation, which sounds great on paper. In reality, it's creating a tsunami of barely functional, poorly conceived digital products. Entrepreneurs and "idea guys" are now armed with tools that can spit out boilerplate code, leading to an explosion of half-baked applications cluttering app stores worldwide.
The real problem isn't the technology - it's the misconception that technology alone solves problems. Just because you can generate code doesn't mean you understand user experience, system architecture, or scalable design. It's like giving someone who's never cooked before a professional kitchen and expecting Michelin-star results.
The Deployment Dilemma
My recent phone call perfectly encapsulates this issue. Someone wanted help "putting their app on iOS and Android" - except what they described wasn't an app at all. When I asked about deployment strategies, server infrastructure, or even basic user authentication, I was met with blank stares.
They hadn't considered critical factors like:
- Backend infrastructure requirements
- Cross-platform compatibility
- Performance optimization
- Security protocols
- Scalability challenges
The Token Economy of Mediocrity
With AI tools becoming more accessible, there's a real risk of people burning through massive token budgets and hosting costs for products that have zero market viability. Just because you can generate an app doesn't mean you should.
My advice? If you're serious about building software, consult an actual developer. AI is a tool, not a replacement for genuine expertise, strategic thinking, and deep technical understanding.
The Human Element
Technology evolves, but fundamental principles remain. Good software isn't just about writing code - it's about solving real problems, understanding user needs, and creating elegant, efficient solutions. No amount of AI-generated boilerplate can replace genuine human insight and craftsmanship.
We're entering an era where technical literacy matters more than ever. Learn the principles, understand the fundamentals, and approach technology with humility and curiosity.
One Last Thing
To all the aspiring "app creators" out there: slow down. Learn. Ask questions. Understand that a truly great digital product is about so much more than just generating some lines of code. It's about solving real problems with thoughtful, well-designed solutions.
The future belongs to those who combine technological capability with genuine human understanding.
