What is Vibe Coding?
Vibe coding refers to a programming methodology in which the developer provides instructions in natural language for large-scale language models (LLMs) to generate the corresponding code. This approach seeks to simplify the development process, making it more accessible, especially for beginners or professionals in related fields, such as user experience (UX) design.
Benefits and Attractions
The main advantage of vibe coding is agility. Tools such as Replit, Bolt, Loveable, and Cursor allow you to obtain functional solutions quickly with just a few commands. For designers, platforms such as Figma AI, Uizard, and Webflow offer similar functionalities, automating processes that previously required hours of manual work.
Risks and Challenges
Despite its benefits, vibe coding presents significant challenges. Over-reliance on AI can lead to the generation of code with security vulnerabilities, hard-to-detect errors, and a superficial understanding of how applications work internally. In addition, there is a risk of accumulating ‘technical debt,’ where quick, poorly optimised solutions compromise the maintenance and future scalability of the software.
Implications for Designers
For UX professionals, vibe coding offers the temptation to completely automate the design process, eliminating repetitive tasks. However, this approach can lead to a loss of intentionality in design, resulting in generic solutions that do not adequately meet user needs.
Conclusion
Vibe coding represents a significant evolution in the way we interact with software development, democratising access and accelerating processes. However, it is essential to approach this practice with caution, recognising its limitations and ensuring that the pursuit of efficiency does not compromise the quality, security or usability of the solutions developed. For designers and developers, the balance between automation and deep understanding remains fundamental.
