The AI executes the greenfield implementation across the entire codebase repository.
Define strict behavioral assertions that the AI cannot violate. Treat the codebase as a black box. 2. Practice Prototyping by Disposal dark software
While this shift promises a hyper-acceleration of feature delivery, it also introduces a profound phenomenon known as cognitive debt : a state where system velocity structurally outpaces human comprehension. 5 Levels of the Agentic SDLC The AI executes the greenfield implementation across the
Prompt agents to build fully functional prototypes in hours. Dark software often exploits and event handling :
Dark software often exploits and event handling :
The unit of work shifts to a user story or isolated feature. The engineer describes a desired functional outcome.
| Type | How It Works | Example | |------|-------------|---------| | | Easy to opt in, nearly impossible to opt out | Amazon’s "Prime" cancellation requiring 6+ clicks vs. 1-click signup | | Forced Continuity | Auto-enrolls free trial into paid subscription without clear notice | Gym apps that require calling a support line to cancel | | Confirmshaming | Uses guilt or ego to block a rejection option | "No thanks, I don’t want to save money" button in gray | | Hidden Resource Use | Software that mines crypto, uploads user data, or acts as a zombie in a botnet | Mobile flashlight apps that request location & contact data | | Stealth Installers | Bundled software installed without clear disclosure | Adobe Flash updater that installs McAfee antivirus by default | | Disguised Ads | Download buttons that look like "Play" or "Next" | Fake download buttons on CNET’s FileHippo (historically) |