How ClickHouse Uses AI Coding Agents

ClickHouse shares its practical framework for using AI coding agents, detailing what works, what doesn't, and why.

After a year of using AI coding agents, the team at ClickHouse has shared its practical findings. They report that while the tools are effective, their utility is not universal. To address this, the team developed a framework to help engineers decide when to use an AI agent versus traditional methods. This structured approach moves beyond vague corporate mandates by providing clear, task-specific guidelines, aiming to apply AI only where it offers a distinct advantage.

This experience is highly relevant for developers and CTOs trying to integrate AI tools effectively. It offers a real-world model that cuts through the hype, helping teams avoid common pitfalls like using agents for tasks where they are inefficient. By learning from ClickHouse's journey, other organizations can develop their own internal best practices for AI-assisted development. The insights help leadership set realistic expectations and empower engineers to make informed decisions about their workflows.

The key takeaway is that the boundary for effective AI agent use is constantly shifting as the technology matures. ClickHouse's experience underscores the need for continuous evaluation and adaptation of development practices. Their framework serves as a valuable starting point for any tech company looking to harness AI in a deliberate and impactful way, ensuring the technology serves as a genuine assistant rather than a distraction.

ClickHouse's report provides a rare, practical framework for using AI coding agents, moving beyond hype to offer actionable advice for engineering teams struggling with how to best adopt these new tools.

Adopting a structured approach to AI coding agents, like the one ClickHouse developed, can lead to significant productivity gains, reduced wasted engineering hours, and a more effective integration of AI into development workflows, ultimately accelerating product delivery.