Breaking new ground in software development with AI-powered collaboration 

Pioneering to get real-life experience and data

In today’s fast-paced software development landscape, companies seek ways to leverage the latest technology to stay competitive. Solita and ISS recognised that generative AI could fundamentally reshape the future of software development, driving greater speed, efficiency, and quality. However, the industry lacked data and insights on how AI could enhance team collaboration, streamline processes, and boost innovation.

The challenge was ambitious: to research and pioneer new ways of working that fully leveraged AI, redefining how teams coordinate, make decisions, and deliver solutions. Could AI-assisted collaboration transform the industry from the inside out? 

“We wanted to experiment in practice with new AI-based tools and their impact on workflows, coordination and decision-making. I really appreciate ISS joining us with an open mind to explore the potential of AI and providing a reference point in a team that relied on traditional agile development. “GenAI Twin” was a unique opportunity to learn, and verify the value of AI-assisted development in real customer project”, says Marko Taipale, Solita’s Principal Consultant.

CollabAI – a revolutionary approach to team-base software development

Through research and experimentation, Solita and ISS developed CollabAI, a revolutionary approach to team-based software development. By integrating generative AI at every stage of the development lifecycle – from ideation to deployment – the framework enabled unprecedented collaboration and efficiency.

The CollabAI framework was built around dynamic workflows:

• Real-time AI assistance: AI-supported teams in generating test cases, designing data models, and creating UI prototypes in real-time.

• Shared screen sessions: Teams worked collaboratively in 15-minute intervals, rotating roles to ensure inclusivity and adaptability.
• Eliminating traditional bottlenecks: Backlogs, meetings, and rigid phase gates were replaced with continuous iteration and seamless customer feedback. 

Redefining agile practices

During the project, we developed new ways of working. The team used daily goal setting in a 45-minute sprint format and incorporated on-demand AI assistants to create test cases, data models, and UI prototypes in real time. This AI-led approach enabled them to iterate quickly, with customer feedback embedded in the process. Over weeks, the team minimised meetings to just one daily 15-minute check-in and a weekly stakeholder review.

“This project redefines what’s possible in software development. By leveraging generative AI, we’ve created a model where collaboration, speed, and innovation thrive. It’s not just about technology – it’s about transforming the way people work together. 

By breaking down traditional roles, every member, regardless of experience, could contribute, learn, and adapt quickly. CollabAI approach reduces overall project duration and allows faster, validated results, with less need for coordination and oversight”, says Marko Taipale.