Generative AI Meets Software Testing: The Rise of Thunder Code
In a significant development in the tech landscape, co-founders Karim Jouini and Jihed Othmani, renowned for their success with the expense management platform Expensya, have embarked on a new entrepreneurial journey. They recently established Thunder Code, an innovative software testing platform powered by generative AI—marking their return to the startup scene after a notable acquisition by Swedish firm Medius.
A Return to Innovation
In 2023, Jouini and Othmani sold Expensya for what sources estimate to be over $120 million, a landmark deal in the African startup ecosystem. Despite vowing never to start another company due to the pressures of their previous venture, the rise of generative AI reignited their entrepreneurial spirit. "It’s like having another child; you forget how tough the first one was," Jouini humorously remarked. Driven by a vision to build something potentially transformative, they secured $9 million in seed funding for Thunder Code, within just six months of its inception.
Redefining Software Testing with AI
Thunder Code aims to streamline the traditionally tedious and slow testing process through AI-driven “agents.” These sophisticated tools emulate human testers, enhancing quality assurance by identifying subtle UI and UX issues—all while learning and evolving based on user feedback. The founders believe that their generative AI approach can drastically accelerate testing cycles, highlighting a shift in how software development can be optimized.
Learning from the Past
Determined to apply lessons learned from their experience with Expensya, Jouini prioritized rapid development. Their first minimal viable product (MVP) launched in a brisk six weeks, significantly outperforming Expensya’s initial rollout. This reflects a growing trend in the startup ecosystem: the mantra that speed and adaptability often outweigh the need for perfection in the early stages.
The founders’ strategy focuses on web application testing for now, but they have expansive plans for mobile, desktop, and API testing by late 2025. By strategically targeting a market projected to exceed $100 billion by 2027—dominated by older code-based platforms—Thunder Code positions itself as a competitive player in a burgeoning sector.
A Strong Foundation
Jouini’s extensive experience at Medius, where he observed the integration of six companies across three continents, coupled with Othmani’s proficiency in generative AI, gives Thunder Code a formidable edge. Their impressive $9 million funding round includes support from familiar faces and strategic investors from their Expensya days, enabling a solid groundwork for rapid growth.
With its unique approach to solving critical issues in software testing, Thunder Code is poised to disrupt the market. The founders’ willingness to embrace early dilution for the sake of attracting top talent reflects a broader shift among entrepreneurs, particularly in Africa, towards recognizing the long-term value of building a scalable, innovative company.
Conclusion
As the tech world increasingly turns to AI for solutions, Thunder Code represents a compelling case of how seasoned entrepreneurs can leverage past experiences to innovate within new realms. As they navigate their resurgence in the startup arena, the focus remains clear: harnessing the power of generative AI to redefine what’s possible in software testing. Whether Thunder Code emerges as the next unicorn remains to be seen, but the energy and vision driving this venture certainly suggest a promising future.
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Bio: Priya specializes in making complex financial and tech topics easy to digest, with experience in fintech and consumer reviews.