GNU Make has introduced a 'load' directive enabling the use of C functions directly, which enhances its capabilities and efficiency, particularly for large builds where traditional macros can slow down parsing. This new feature allows for the creation of complex functions, such as equality tests, which are not only more efficient but easier to manage than traditional macros. The community discussions highlight the usability issues with GNU Make, including poor error reporting and handling of special characters in filenames. There's a growing sentiment that alternative languages or systems (like Zig) might provide a more ergonomic experience for handling build processes, suggesting a potential shift in tool selection among developers moving forward.