Boosting Developer Productivity with AI

U.K. payments company allpay has successfully integrated artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud technology to enhance its operational efficiency and support future growth. This strategic move comes as part of their broader digital transformation plan, responding to limitations within their legacy data center infrastructure.

Impressive Productivity Gains

After adopting an AI coding assistant and migrating to the cloud using Microsoft Azure, allpay reported a remarkable 10% increase in coding productivity and a 25% increase in software releases within just nine months. This achievement surpassed their total production output from the previous year.

Enhancing Code Quality

Nick Woolley, IT Director at allpay, noted that while speeding up the software delivery process, AI tools like GitHub Copilot are also elevating the quality of code. He remarked, “GitHub Copilot helps us to improve code quality, testing, and applications.” This dual benefit underscores the importance of integrating advanced technologies into software development practices.

Migration to the Cloud

The transition to cloud infrastructure has provided allpay with essential scalability, compliance, and U.K. data residency—factors critical for a regulated financial services provider. By moving their operations to the cloud, allpay is prepared not just for current demands but also for future growth.

Improving Developer Experiences

Allpay’s implementation of GitHub Copilot has transformed the developer experience, particularly benefiting junior developers who previously faced challenges when encountering legacy code. As Adam Wheater, Principal Development Chapter Lead, explained, “Now we just ask GitHub Copilot instead of searching for help.” This has streamlined their workflow and fostered a collaborative environment akin to pair programming.

The Role of Automation in Financial Services

AI’s influence is reshaping the financial services landscape by addressing emerging themes, such as reimagining back-office infrastructure and enhancing data readiness. According to a PYMNTS Intelligence report, companies are increasingly recognizing AI’s capacity for scaling operations and driving customer-centric innovations.

A Competitive Edge in Recruitment

As a rural U.K. employer, allpay views its innovative tech stack as a vital asset in attracting and retaining talent. Woolley emphasized this perspective, stating, “Providing a modern working environment with cutting-edge tools is key for us in recruitment.” This commitment to technology not only enhances productivity but also fortifies the company’s position in a competitive job market.

Focused on Continuous Improvement

By optimizing workflows and embracing AI, allpay is contributing to a larger narrative within the digital economy, where intelligent automation is crucial for innovation, cost-efficiency, and speed. Woolley remarked, “GitHub Copilot supports us in delivering incremental changes more rapidly, adding value to our business.” The company continues to explore new AI and cloud capabilities, pushing the boundaries of service excellence for internal stakeholders and customers alike.