Like many other developers, I have mixed feelings about AI and code generation. On one hand, AI makes things more interesting by providing a solid baseline to build upon, which can speed up the development process. On the other hand, it raises concerns about creating more technical debt down the line.
Lately, I’ve been testing different AI-assisted development tools, and I’d like to share some thoughts about Mentor from OutSystems.
Imagine going from an idea to a fully functional prototype in just a few minutes — that’s exactly what Mentor by OutSystems promises.
Mentor has two main components:
App Generator
– Generates a working application based on your input, including data models, business logic, and UI.App Editor
– Uses AI to help you modify and refine the generated application, streamlining the iteration process.
App Generator - How It Works
Start with a Prompt
Just provide an app name, and AI will create a basic version to get you started. For example, you could start with "Order Management App" and get a
working draft in minutes - screens, data model, roles, logic, etc.Upload a Requirements Document
If you have a detailed spec (DOCX or PDF), AI will pull out key details like entities, roles, attributes, and workflows to build a solid starting version of an app.
Refine and Customize
AI will suggest key data tables, but it's possible to adjust them before generating the app to better fit the needs. Like adding new tables or columns, or changing data types.Connect with External Systems
OutSystems also allows connecting with external systems like SAP and Salesforce without complex coding.Define User Roles
AI generates default user roles with predefined security settings (e.g., admin and user). However, these roles can be adjusted later by adding or removing roles as needed.
Automated UI and Workflow
AI generates user-friendly forms, dashboards, and table views, plus sets up user permissions and workflows so only the right people can take certain actions (like approvals).Intelligent Design and Theming
AI applies a clean, professional theme and can even extract branding colors from your uploaded files.
App Editor — Easy Full-Stack Customization
Once the app is generated, you can fine-tune it using the App Editor:
Visual Overview – See your app’s structure (screens, data, roles) at a glance.
Smart Suggestions – AI recommends new entities, attributes, roles, and UI components.
Real-Time Preview – See live data in the editor without switching between design and runtime.
Easy Management – Modify data, roles, and permissions with a few clicks.
Instant Publishing – Validate and publish updates with one click.
Final Thoughts
As AI continues to improve, tools like Mentor could become a good accelerator for developers.
Next up, I’m planning to explore Lovable — any other AI-assisted development tools you’d recommend? Let me know in the comments!
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