From Idea to App: Real GenAI Use Case for Chrome Extension Development
In today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape, generative AI (GenAI) tools like ChatGPT are reshaping the way we approach problem-solving and innovation. As someone without a true application development background, I recently embarked on a journey to create a Chrome Extension to address a personal productivity use case — a venture that seemed daunting at first. However, with the assistance of GenAI, I transformed my idea into a tangible product, learning invaluable lessons along the way.
The Genesis of an Idea
The inspiration struck when I found myself repeatedly needing to print multiple browser tabs to PDFs for work — coincidentally to facilitate GenAI conversations that required direct context. Recognizing the inefficiency of manually saving each tab and surprised this wasn’t a native Chrome functionality, I envisioned a Chrome Extension that could streamline this process. Lacking direct application development expertise, I turned to GenAI tools to bridge the gap between concept and execution.
Leveraging ChatGPT: A Collaborative Partner
ChatGPT became my collaborative partner in this project. I began by clearly articulating my goals to the AI, outlining the desired features and functionalities of the extension. This initial step was crucial; providing comprehensive context and technical details enabled the AI to generate more accurate and relevant guidance. I found filtering my idea through a mini systems analysis approach was an effective mechanism to ensure I was going down the right path. Without this intentional prompting ChatGPT would immediately choose an approach and present a solution.
Systems Analysis Through Prompting
Emulating a systems analysis approach, I engaged in a structured dialogue with ChatGPT following the below steps:
- Determining Goals: I specified that the extension should allow users to select multiple tabs and print them to PDFs, with options to customize settings like page size and margins.
- Establishing Criteria: We discussed the need for user-friendly design, compliance with Chrome Web Store policies, and minimal permissions to ensure security.
- Exploring Alternatives: ChatGPT suggested various implementation methods, such as sending a URL to an external service for printing, and we evaluated the pros and cons of each.
Interactive Testing and Refinement
Throughout the development process, interactive testing was essential. I would implement the AI-generated code snippets and test them in the Chrome browser, noting any issues or unexpected behaviors. This hands-on experimentation allowed me to provide specific feedback to the AI, which in turn offered solutions and modifications.
For instance, when encountering permission errors during testing, the AI guided me through adjusting the manifest.json file to request only the necessary permissions. This iterative cycle of testing and refinement not only improved the extension but also deepened my understanding of Chrome extension architecture.
Context is Still Necessary for Domain Specific Applications
While GenAI is hyped as a panacea at times it is still error prone and requires a bit of fine-tuning to get the most effective output. For example, while building the Chrome Extension I found that it would use the wrong field names or an outdated function. This issue is partially addressed by uploading code examples and recent technical documentation to the context window.
Extending Beyond Code: Crafting Descriptions and Policies
ChatGPT’s utility extended beyond coding assistance. When it came time to prepare the Chrome Web Store listing, the AI helped craft a compelling product description and privacy policy, ensuring compliance with all requirements. This support streamlined the publication process and enhanced the extension’s appeal to potential users.
For instance, we developed a privacy policy that transparently communicated how the extension handles user data — important for building trust with users and complying with platform guidelines. ChatGPT also assisted in writing the store description, highlighting the extension’s key features and benefits in a way that resonates with the target audience.
Reflections on the Role of GenAI in Development
This project underscored the transformative potential of generative AI in democratizing software development. Even without a true product development background, I was able to bring my idea to life by effectively collaborating with an AI assistant. A few reflections below:
Bridges the Technical Knowledge Gap: Using ChatGPT to develop a Chrome Extension definitely bridges the technical knowledge gap considering I had no prior experience developing an extension; however, it doesn’t close it completely. It by no means provides a fully turn-key solution upon first iteration and I felt like my general technology experience helped play a large role in the tooling being effective. If I had zero technology experience or was a novice business user I don’t think it would have been as useful as a tool.
Reduces Friction: One of the most valuable aspects of working with ChatGPT was its ability to alleviate common roadblocks in technical work. Typically, hitting a snag — like a stubborn bug or a configuration issue — can consume hours of a developer’s time. With the AI’s assistance, I could quickly address these issues, keeping the project moving forward. This reduction in friction not only saved time but also made the development process more enjoyable.
Moving Towards a New Workflow: This experience signaled a shift in the development workflow. The focus moved from figuring out the “how” in code to effectively communicating requirements and engaging in trial-and-error testing. While this brings us closer to a point-and-click model where requirements can be directly translated into code, we’re not fully there yet. Human insight remains crucial, especially in decision-making and refining the AI-generated solutions.
Wrap Up
Embarking on this project was both challenging and rewarding. It demonstrated that with the right tools and approach, it’s possible to overcome technical barriers and turn ideas into reality. The experience showcased the significant potential of generative AI in empowering individuals, but it also highlighted that there’s still progress to be made.
While AI can accelerate development and make technology more accessible, it doesn’t yet replace the need for human expertise and critical thinking. My general technology experience was essential in navigating the development process and maximizing the AI’s utility. As generative AI continues to evolve, I look forward to seeing how these tools will further transform the landscape of software development, making innovation even more attainable for everyone.
The extension developed during this project is called ‘Multiple Tab to PDF Printer’ and is available for free use on the Chrome Web Store. Feel free to check it out and let me know what you think!
The views expressed in this post are my own and do not necessarily reflect the official policies, positions, or views of the global EY organization or its member firms.
