Building Software using Squad with Brady Gaster - .NET Rocks! Recap

Podcast: .NET Rocks!

Published: 2026-03-19

Duration: 59 min

Guests: Brady Gaster

What Happened

Brady Gaster discussed the development of Squad, a tool designed to enhance software development processes by using AI-driven multi-agent teams. The tool allows for the creation of specialized agents, each with specific roles, to work collaboratively on a project, improving efficiency and consistency. Gaster explained how the tool was inspired by the need for more coordinated and efficient workflows, especially in complex projects that require multiple specialized skills.

The conversation highlighted how Squad evolved from Brady Gaster's experiments with agentic tools and frameworks, initially aimed at improving Azure dev tools. His work led to the development of a system where agents can learn from each other, improving their effectiveness over time. The agents operate within context windows, which can lead to more efficient use of computational resources by compartmentalizing tasks.

Gaster shared insights into how Squad agents manage memory and learn from their past experiences. Each agent has the ability to write and refine skills based on repeated tasks, which enhances their capabilities and reduces the need for direct human intervention. This approach allows Squad to not only improve over time but also adapt to different project requirements.

Carl Franklin shared his personal experience using Squad for a remote digital audio workstation project. He detailed how Squad was able to assist in the development process by organizing tasks, managing phases of development, and even helping to write detailed specifications and implementation plans. Franklin's experience underscored the practical applications and benefits of using Squad in real-world projects.

The discussion revealed the potential for Squad to transform how teams approach software development, particularly in terms of efficiency and project management. The tool's ability to create a virtual team of experts that can be customized for specific projects was emphasized as a significant innovation.

Richard Campbell brought up the historical context of the tools and frameworks that preceded Squad, noting how they paved the way for such innovations. He mentioned how decomposition and specialization in software development have long been effective strategies, now enhanced by Squad's capabilities.

Key Insights

• Squad operates by creating specialized agents for specific roles within a project, which allows for more efficient and coordinated workflows. The tool improves over time as agents learn from their experiences.
• Brady Gaster's development of Squad was inspired by the need for more efficient workflows in Azure development tools, leading to a system where agents can write and refine their own skills.
• Carl Franklin used Squad to develop a remote digital audio workstation, showcasing how Squad can manage tasks, phases, and even write detailed specifications and implementation plans for complex projects.
• Richard Campbell highlighted the historical context of software development strategies like decomposition and specialization, noting how Squad enhances these strategies with its AI-driven approach.