Beyond vibe coding: A controlled and customisable AI software development process

This talk, presented by Philip Langer from EclipseSource, delves into transitioning from ad-hoc AI coding, often referred to as "vibe coding," to a structured and reliable AI software development process. Recorded at the Open Community Experience 2026 in Brussels, Belgium, the session discusses the limitations of fully autonomous AI coding in complex environments and highlights the need for a controlled workflow that emphasizes context engineering and iterative refinement. The speaker emphasizes the importance of providing explicit context to AI coding assistants, detailing a structured approach that includes defining context, exploring solutions, refining tasks, and validating outputs. Additionally, practical techniques are shared to enhance outcomes in AI-assisted development while maintaining code quality and developer expertise.