This IDC Market Perspective explores the transformative impact of agentic AI on the software development life cycle (SDLC), highlighting its potential to enhance operational efficiency, governance, and agility. As AI adoption accelerates, agentic AI is becoming a central force in transforming software development — streamlining processes, enhancing compliance, and tackling persistent technical challenges. While its potential is notable, organizations must be prepared to address several key challenges (including integration, data management, and security) when implementing and using agentic AI. The shift toward agentic AI raises critical questions for technology leaders. Is there a role for agentic AI to move beyond being a helpful assistant to becoming an autonomous collaborator — a true co-worker in software development? Can these agents transcend simple task automation to become trusted contributors to the development process? If so, what new capabilities, governance models, and cultural shifts will be required?"Agentic AI is reshaping software development and delivery, transforming AI from a tool to an autonomous collaborator to drive efficiency and innovation, redefining human roles in the process." — AVP Jennifer Thomson, Cloud Innovation and Services Europe, IDC
Executive Snapshot
New Market Developments and Dynamics
The Evolution of AI in Software Development and Delivery
The AI Journey : From Predictive to Generative to Agentic AI
The Agentic AI Advantage in the SDLC
Addressing Current Challenges in Software Development and Delivery
Impact on the Software Development Life Cycle
Challenges and Considerations
Advice for Technology Suppliers and Service Providers
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