The Compounding Game: Why Spec-Driven Development Misses the Point

Published on 18.02.2026

AI & AGENTS

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TLDR: Kent Beck introduces the concept of two distinct software development games: The Finish Line Game (build to spec, ship, done) and The Compounding Game (each delivery funds the next). He argues that most teams unknowingly play the wrong game, and that AI coding assistants won't save you from the consequences.

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