I’m at the cusp of releasing a transportation web app in public beta this November, but it’s not ready yet. The biggest hurdle right now is data collection. I utilized online and on-the-ground resources to consolidate tricycle routes, fares, and terminals by checking Google Maps and asking drivers directly. Two of my friends suggested that I should pitch it to my local government for adoption.
After all, I made this software to help my fellow residents navigate the locality. Online information’s scare of public transport routes that I thought now is the time to make it digital.
But I want to make sure it is 100% functional and usable. I don’t want it to get labelled as AI-generated. Although I did use AI to help with planning and refactoring, most of the thinking and decision-making is still up to me. And I write code to learn hence I’m giving my project time to bake into fruition.
AI has made output more accessible but, in turn, has created new mediocrity. That led to an increase in discourse on the proliferation of apps that do the same thing. Distinction is a choice that ultimately leads users to ask, “What else can it do to help me?” Being clear about what you offer helps ensure users understand your proposition and can confidently use it with less risk.
I’m not against AI-generated apps, but I am supportive of developing quality software that actually helps people.