Energy Allocation in the AI Era

Published: at 10:15 AM

I recently experienced an incredibly fast-paced week. In just four days, I completed the entire process of an app—from initial design to final launch and release.

This used to be completely unthinkable. However, with the added power of AI, I was able to manage this whole workflow with ease.

How I made it

We will discuss this process from three main aspects:

  1. Code Implementation I use tools like Claude Code and Cursor to assist with writing code. Typically, I build the app’s core architecture myself and invest significant time in writing the agent.md documentation. I draft a design for every functional module, which is polished with the help of AI. Once the design is finalized, I hand it over to the AI for execution.

  2. Design Workflow Currently, there aren’t many highly capable AI tools in the design space. I use Figma AI to create prototypes and establish a unified configuration, including colors and typography. After refining the spacing and layout until they feel right, I implement a few UI examples myself. I then feed these examples back to the AI so it can implement the remaining interface elements based on my style.

  3. Deployment and Publishing The release process benefits from the latest “Skills” supported by Claude Code. I wrote a custom “i18n” skill that effectively handles localized.xcstrings files in Xcode. This allows it to identify and fill in missing translations, automating the entire I18N (internationalization) process.

Additionally, I use an app called Helm. It allows me to manage App Store Connect more conveniently and quickly, specifically helping me create and publish new versions.

The good things

For the first time, I have truly felt the immense boost in productivity that AI provides. As an independent developer, I have benefited significantly in this AI era because I can now accomplish tasks that typically require an entire team.

I can handle everything individually, including:

  1. Writing the code
  2. Creating the design mockups
  3. Completing the entire I18N (internationalization) translation process

The apps I currently have on the store feature not only robust functionality but also comprehensive multi-language support. This support goes beyond simple translation; it also covers app store screenshots and various in-app events.

This is perhaps the best era to be an independent developer.

The dark side

AI can be described as a diligent and gifted senior employee who can work for you 24/7 (provided, of course, that you pay their “wages”).

Compared to the tireless and sleepless nature of AI, we as humans still need to spend at least eight hours a day on sleep and rest. Human energy and focus are very limited and scarce resources; we require more time to ensure our physical and mental well-being.

While it is often said that the help of AI reduces the likelihood of burnout, there are two sides to consider:

  1. Improved Performance: I can leverage the overall improvement in my state of mind to complete project development.
  2. Time Management Challenges: On the downside, using AI for writing often causes me to lose track of time, leading to very late nights.

Ultimately, the allocation of personal energy and focus requires much more deliberate management.