How to Use Artificial Intelligence for Developers: 5 Essential Tools

Introduction

In the world of programming, generative artificial intelligence tools are revolutionizing software development in the same way that Google, Stack Overflow, and GitHub did in their time. Although these technologies will not replace developers, they do have the capacity to multiply their productivity and creativity. At Taniwa, we have been performing complex software development for over 12 years, and for some time now, we have integrated these solutions into our workflow with surprising results.

If you’re ready to boost your career, here you’ll find a guide on how to use these AI tools, with a practical approach adapted to the real needs of developers.

5 Artificial Intelligence Tools Every Developer Should Know

1. GitHub Copilot: Your Smart Code Assistant

GitHub Copilot is the first tool any developer should integrate. Its ability to suggest and complete lines of code, generate complete functions, and optimize routine tasks makes it an indispensable ally.

Key Features:

• Intelligent autocompletion.
• Improvement of existing code through integrated chat.
• Discovery of new ways to solve problems.

Our Experience:
At Taniwa, GitHub Copilot has allowed us to reduce development time by up to 30%, leaving more space to focus on solving complex problems.

2. Ollama: Your Own Large Language Model (LLM)

Ollama gives you the possibility of having your own language model directly on your machine. This not only improves data privacy but also allows you to customize models for specific needs.

Practical Applications:

• Generation of advanced logic for complex calculations.
• Implementation of local models optimized for code.

Our Recommendation:
If you work with sensitive data or need flexibility, Ollama is a powerful and reliable option.

3. Visual Studio Code and Continue: Power Up Your Work Environment

Visual Studio Code is already a standard in software development, but with the integration of Continue, you can take it to the next level.

Benefits:

• Direct connection with LLM models like those from Ollama.
• Model comparison to choose the best solution according to the case.
• Advanced customization for development environments.

Our Use:
We have used Continue and it gives us a competitive advantage in agile development.

4. NotebookLM: Documentation in Matrix Mode

Organizing and analyzing technical documentation has never been as simple as with NotebookLM. This tool acts as an “academic assistant” that facilitates navigation and understanding of documents related to your projects.

Advantages:

• Instant summaries adapted to context.
• Specialization in topics related to your project.
• Quick identification of key information.

In Practice:
We have used NotebookLM to accelerate onboarding in new projects, which allows us to quickly assimilate essential technical details.

5. Fabric: Filter Information with Precision

Fabric is the definitive solution for processing large volumes of information. From academic papers to technical debates, this tool extracts the essentials in seconds.

Main Features:

• Automated summaries and key recommendations.
• Detection of main ideas in any type of content.
• Advanced trend analysis.

Our Experience:
Thanks to Fabric, we have significantly reduced the time dedicated to research, allowing us to make data-driven decisions more nimbly.

Keys to Integrating Artificial Intelligence Tools into Your Workflow

The successful incorporation of artificial intelligence tools requires a clear strategy. These are the practices we have perfected over time:

• Constant Training: We teach our team how to use these tools through practical cases and lessons learned.
• Active Supervision: Although AI is powerful, it always requires review and approval from a human developer.
• Personalized Adaptation: Select the tools that best fit your projects and specific needs.

Conclusion: Prepare for the Future of Development

Artificial intelligence is an opportunity, not a threat. As developers, we have the ability to use these tools to do things better and faster. Our experience has taught us that AI technologies are not perfect, but when used correctly, they can be a catalyst for innovation.

If you’re ready to take the next step, start exploring these five tools. Integrate best practices and discover how artificial intelligence can transform your career. The future of development is already here!