AI tools have made it possible for anyone to build software. But most people skip the thinking and jump straight to "build me an app." That's how you end up with something that works on your laptop but falls apart with real users.
In this session, I'll show you the right way to approach it — from writing a spec that AI can actually build from, to a live demo building a real tool from scratch, to the practical checklist you need before anything goes live.
What you'll get from the evening
The Evening
See it built. Learn how it works. Know what to watch for.
Not a lecture. Not a pitch. A live demo, practical advice, and honest conversation about building software with AI.
How to Write a Spec AI Can Build From
Think before you type
Most people open Claude Code and type "build me an app." That doesn't work. I'll walk through how to think about a project before you touch the tool — what does it do, who uses it, what data does it need, what are the rules. A clear mental framework you'll remember.
Live Build: A Sales & Marketing Tool
Built from scratch, in front of you
I pull up the pre-prepped spec. I open Claude Code. I build it live in front of the room. The app scrapes relevant online conversations, pulls out insights, and generates content ideas. By the end you're looking at a working tool that does something genuinely useful — built from scratch in front of your eyes.
What to Think About Before You Ship
The checklist Claude Code won't give you
Now they've seen what's possible — where your API keys are stored, whether your data is secured, GDPR basics, why version control matters. Not a scare session — just "here's the checklist before real users touch this."
Q&A and Chat
Open floor. Bring your questions about your own ideas. Good coffee. This is where you find out who's ready to build.
Register for How to Build Software with AI
Tuesday 6 May 2026 · 6–8pm · Lab82, The Oldknows Factory, Nottingham
Who's Running This
Hi, I'm Martin.
I've spent 20+ years building products, running businesses and helping founders in health, tech and regulated industries. I run Built in Notts, the region's tech community, and I've been deep in the AI coding tools space since day one.
This session comes from what I'm actually seeing in the field — founders building incredible things with AI, but missing the foundations that make them safe to ship. I want to show you what's possible and help you avoid the mistakes.
Frequently asked questions
No. This session is useful whether you're actively building, about to start, or just exploring AI tools. You'll leave understanding what's possible and how to approach it properly.
No. It's a live demo and practical session. If you want to go deeper afterwards, there's a Build Day workshop — but the evening is about showing you what's possible and what to watch out for.
None. The live build uses Claude Code, but the principles apply to anyone building with AI tools — Cursor, ChatGPT, Replit, Lovable, Bolt, or anything else.
There's a Q&A section where you can ask about your specific idea. It's not a full audit, but I can point you in the right direction on the night.
Founders and business owners who want to build software with AI tools. People who are curious about what's possible. Anyone who's been tinkering but wants to see how it's done properly. Developers interested in the topic are welcome too.
Lab82 at The Oldknows Factory in Nottingham. Relaxed, informal, good coffee. Come as you are. There's free parking on site and it's a short walk from the city centre.
No. This is a demo, talk, and Q&A — not a workshop. Just bring yourself. If you want to take notes, your phone is fine.