Hidden Gems in the Rough: Computational Notebooks as an Uncharted Oasis for IDEs
Sergey Titov, Konstantin Grotov, Ashwin Prasad S. Venkatesh
TL;DR
The paper investigates deeper integration of computational notebooks into Integrated Development Environments (IDEs) to support experimentation, collaboration, and code comprehension. It contrasts online notebook platforms with traditional IDEs, highlighting the need for notebook-specific workflows rather than mere feature additions. Proposed approaches include per-kernel default environments to accelerate experiments, cell-level dialogue stored in cell metadata for unified collaboration, and UI/static-analysis tools to address non-linear execution and improve navigation. The authors argue that expanding the notebook-IDE design space will benefit both components and better prepare developers for AI-powered programming, including large language model workflows.
Abstract
In this paper, we outline potential ways for the further development of computational notebooks in Integrated Development Environments (IDEs). We discuss notebooks integration with IDEs, focusing on three main areas: facilitating experimentation, adding collaborative features, and improving code comprehension. We propose that better support of notebooks will not only benefit the notebooks, but also enhance IDEs by supporting new development processes native to notebooks. In conclusion, we suggest that adapting IDEs for more experimentation-oriented notebook processes will prepare them for the future of AI-powered programming.