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From execution to strategy: how AI changes the role of developers
At first glance, a developer claiming that AI “changed everything” might sound like an exaggeration. Until you hear what Melvin means. At Code, developers now use Cursor, an AI-powered code editor that understands your entire codebase and can actively collaborate with you. “It’s not just a generator; it’s really an AI agent,” Melvin explains. “You can ask what a piece of code does, request improvements, or have it generate new sections based on your intent.”
For junior developers, this is a game-changer. Where they used to rely heavily on senior colleagues for explanations, AI now provides clear answers instantly. “That accelerates onboarding,” says Melvin, “and frees up senior developers to focus on complex architecture without constant interruptions.”
From hands-on coding to high-level impact
But AI is doing more than just speeding up development: it’s enabling teams to make smarter, more strategic decisions. Which tech stack will help us stay agile? How can we build scalable storefronts that evolve with the market? What choices set us up for long-term success?
“AI is an accelerator,” Melvin says. “We let it handle repetitive tasks so we can focus on delivering real value to our clients. Our developers now have more time to think critically and strategically.”
AI won’t replace your job, unless you’re not adding value
It’s an important distinction: AI changes jobs, but doesn’t automatically replace them. “If your role is purely execution, you should be worried,” Melvin warns. “But if you add value, think strategically, and understand what AI generates, you’re more essential than ever.”
Code enforces high quality standards. Every line of code must follow the team’s internal 'handwriting': a style guide enforced by automated checks. “We still refactor the final 10% ourselves, to ensure everything meets our quality standards,” Melvin explains.
What does this mean for e-commerce brands?
For brands, this shift is great news. Faster development, more consistency, and higher-quality storefronts. AI helps teams work more efficiently, iterate quickly, and spend more time on performance and UX.
It also unlocks new levels of personalisation. “We’re seeing major players like Amazon and Bol personalise based on user behaviour. With AI, this is now accessible to smaller brands too,” says Melvin. Think personalised email flows, dynamic product suggestions, or automated insights from your site traffic.
Keep learning, stay relevant
Melvin doesn’t see AI as a threat. His advice to developers? “Make sure you understand what’s being generated. Can you assess its quality? Spot security risks? Think about what the business needs, not just what the code should do?”
That’s why Code hires experienced developers who think beyond execution. “Our team contributes strategically. And thanks to AI, we now have more time and space to do that.”
The future: AI as a knowledge base and partner
What’s next? AI as a searchable, trainable knowledge base. “Imagine feeding past implementation details into a system that remembers everything,” Melvin says. “When you need to build a new search feature, it can remind you what worked, what didn’t, and why. That’s incredibly powerful.”
For e-commerce brands, this means fewer risks, better decision-making, and faster results – all grounded in years of real project experience. And as teams like Melvin’s continue to explore what’s possible, one thing is clear: AI isn’t just changing how we build stores, it’s reshaping how we learn, collaborate, and grow.
Looking for an experienced Shopify partner?
We’re proud that Code was named one of the best e-commerce agencies in the Netherlands in the 2025 Emerce100. A great recognition of the work we do together with our clients.
Looking for a Shopify agency to help with a replatforming or a new store? We build and optimise Shopify stores at the highest level. Get in touch.
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