[goosejuice]

Let's say an NGO has done the work to formally specify a software product that would improve outcomes or people reached by I dunno 30%. They send out RFPs to a number of consultancies who provide a quote and guaranteed delivery meeting their specifications by the desired date. Only one fits in the budget, and by quite a margin. It's a consultancy that openly "vibe codes".

Should they hire them?

Yes the specification is holding a lot of weight here. Assume it's comprehensive and all consultancies offer the same aftercare support. Otherwise we're just handwaving and bike shedding over something that's not measurable.

[hn_acc1]

What's the vibe coder's track record? Have they been able to provide support / alterations for other projects for multiple years?

[goosejuice]

Assume experience is the same across all agencies.

[i_love_retros]

Is the product anything more than a crud app? If so, no they should not hire them.

[goosejuice]

Does it matter if the outcome is the same? It's a black box that meets the specification.

[i_love_retros]

Yes it matters. If the application handles sensitive data I want to know the engineers took it seriously.

[goosejuice]

This assumes they aren't taking it seriously.

Perhaps the ever changing definition of vibe coding is the issue here. I'm referring to heavily AI assisted development. I'm not referring to a lack of planning, reviewing, and testing.