In this article, we will discuss the connection between Agility and AppSec. Let’s start by addressing that creating a successful application security program is essential for any organization that has software as a product or that software supports their business.
Historically, implementing security measures can cause tension between security and development teams, whose priorities and agendas may differ. This conflict can impede development progress and hinder the implementation of security measures.
Adopting an agile methodology is crucial to building a robust application security program. This approach prioritizes the delivery of high-quality software in a fast and efficient manner while also valuing collaboration and flexibility. Integrating security into the agile process ensures that security measures are integrated into the software development lifecycle (SDLC) without hindering development progress.
To help us better pass for these phases and processes, here are some key steps to building a successful application security program without too much friction with agile teams:
Collaborate with development teams
Having development teams in the process is crucial for creating a successful application security program. This approach guarantees that security measures are fully integrated into the software development life cycle (SDLC) and that development teams understand their significance. With regular meetings and consistent feedback from the development teams, potential issues can be detected and addressed, leading to effective security measures.
Adopt DevSecOps
The DevSecOps philosophy tries to implement security into the software development life cycle by working closely with the development teams. After implementing DevSecOps on SDLC, companies have more security measures in the software development process and keep pace with development speed. This method reduces the friction between security and development teams as the security personnel can offer direction and assess progress throughout the entire development process.
Automate security testing
Integrating automated security testing can help bridge the gap between security and development teams. Automating these tests helps the process and ensures that security requirements are incorporated into the SDLC without obstructing progress. Early detection of security vulnerabilities through automation can also result in cost and time savings down the road.
But here, it is essential to mention that automation is not the only solution for an application security program. Automation can help scale testing but can never replace the manual review process on critical code.
Prioritize security education
Education is one of the essential aspects of building an effective application security program. Making security a priority in training and education can help development teams understand security’s importance and apply the necessary measures effectively. Regular workshops and training sessions will inform development teams of current security practices and technologies.
Measure success
In an application security program, measuring its effectiveness is crucial.
To do this, organizations should identify and keep an eye on key metrics, such as the number of security flaws found, the time taken to address them, and the cost involved in fixing them.
Regular monitoring of these metrics can help organizations to identify areas that need improvement and can help to confirm that the security program is delivering results as intended.
Agility and AppSec: the Security Champion’s role
Before we conclude this article, we need to mention the presence and importance of the Security Champion to the success of the application security program. This actor, it’s one of the most important parts of the process. The Security Champion will guarantee that the bridge between the development and security teams is still open and delivering the best solutions for the company.
We can now finish this article.
It’s essential for any company dependent on software to implement a successful application security program without any friction with their agile teams.
By applying an agile methodology and following the key steps mentioned above, these organizations can guarantee that security measures are embedded into the software development lifecycle (SDLC) while allowing their development teams to produce high-quality software efficiently and promptly.
