Review of Patched: Open-Source AI Workflows for Development Automation

Overview

Patched is an open-source workflow automation framework designed for development teams. It aims to automate mundane tasks such as code reviews, documentation, and patches using AI workflows. The platform is backed by Y Combinator and offers a variety of ready-to-use patchflows, as well as the ability to create custom ones.

The product is free and open-source, allowing developers to deploy it on their own infrastructure. It integrates seamlessly with various development and security solutions, making it a versatile tool for enhancing the software development lifecycle (SDLC).

User Experience

Users can choose between using the Command Line Interface (CLI) by following instructions on the Github repository or trying the managed service with a user-friendly GUI. The platform is designed to be fully customizable, allowing users to create new patchflows via code or a no-code builder.

The privacy-first approach ensures that users can deploy Patched within their own infrastructure with their own LLM API keys, ensuring complete privacy and control over their data.

Core Features

Patched offers several core features designed to streamline development tasks. These include the ability to automatically generate documentation, summarize and comment on pull requests, and update vulnerable dependencies. Each feature is accessible via a simple command and can be configured to meet specific needs.

Additionally, users can create their own patchflows using available steps and prompts or write one from scratch. The patchflow generator allows users to create flows without writing any code, making it accessible to a broader audience.

Integration Capabilities

One of the standout features of Patched is its extensive integration capabilities. The platform integrates with over 21 different tools and services, including Gitlab, GitHub, Jira, Hugging Face, AWS, and more. This allows users to create complex, multi-step workflows that leverage various platforms and services.

These integrations make Patched a powerful tool for automating tasks across the entire SDLC, from code review to deployment.

Free and Open Source

Patched is available for free, with the source code hosted on Github. This open-source model allows developers to deploy the platform on their own machines or CI/CD servers without incurring costs.

While the core platform is free, users will need an API key for the LLM they wish to connect with. However, these API keys can also be obtained for free from Patched, ensuring that the barrier to entry remains low.

Managed Service

For those who prefer not to manage their own infrastructure, Patched offers a managed service. This service provides a user-friendly GUI and handles the provisioning of infrastructure and management of LLM endpoints and API costs. Pricing for the managed service is not explicitly mentioned on the website, suggesting that users would need to contact the company for more information.

Getting Started

To get started with Patched, users can follow the step-by-step instructions available on the Github repository. This will guide them through the process of setting up the Command Line Interface (CLI) and using the various patchflows.

Alternatively, users can try the managed service by clicking on the 'Get Started' button on the top-right of the website. This will take them to a sign-in page where they can begin using the platform without needing to manage their own infrastructure.

Creating Patchflows

Creating patchflows with Patched is straightforward. Users can either customize existing patchflows or create new ones from scratch. The platform supports both code-based and no-code methods, allowing users to generate patchflows using text prompts, visual builders, or real Python code.

The patchflow generator is particularly useful for those who prefer not to write code, as it allows them to create complex workflows without needing to understand the underlying programming.

Support Channels

Patched offers multiple channels for customer support. Users with questions or issues can reach out via email at [email protected]. Additionally, the company is active on Discord, providing another avenue for real-time support and community interaction.

The availability of these support channels ensures that users can get help when they need it, making the platform more accessible and user-friendly.

Community and Documentation

In addition to direct support channels, Patched provides extensive documentation and a community forum. These resources are invaluable for users looking to maximize their use of the platform. The documentation covers everything from basic setup to advanced customization, while the community forum allows users to share tips, ask questions, and collaborate on solutions.