The concept of shifting left has gained significant traction as organizations seek to integrate security measures earlier in the software development lifecycle. While this approach is undoubtedly a step in the right direction toward more secure coding practices, it’s not enough, particularly since over 80% of developers knowingly ship vulnerable code. Organizations need to help foster a culture of cooperation and communications across development and security teams in order to drive the business forward, while also reducing the risk of cyber threats.
Foster cooperation between teams
Cybersecurity is no longer solely the responsibility of the security team. It requires collaboration and cooperation across various departments, including development, operations, and leadership. More cooperation between the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) and Chief Technology Officer (CTO) and their respective teams is crucial in aligning security objectives with business goals and ensuring that security measures are integrated seamlessly into the development process.
Build trust and relationships
One of the biggest barriers to effective cooperation between security and development teams is a lack of trust and understanding. Security teams may sometimes come across as imposing restrictions or dictating requirements without considering the practicalities of development. Conversely, development teams may view security as an obstacle to innovation and efficiency.
To overcome these challenges, it’s essential to focus on building trust and relationships between teams through regular points of contact, open communication, active listening, and a willingness to collaborate towards common goals. When security and development teams work together as partners rather than adversaries, they can achieve better outcomes and improve overall security posture.
Embrace risk management
While it’s essential to mitigate risks wherever possible, it’s also important to recognize that eliminating all risks is neither practical nor feasible.
Effective risk management involves identifying and prioritizing risks based on their potential impact on the business. This requires ongoing communication and collaboration between security, development, and business teams to assess risks, make informed decisions, and implement appropriate mitigations.
Creating a culture of cooperation
Ultimately, the key to maintaining secure coding practices lies in creating a culture of cooperation within the organization. This involves fostering an environment where teams are encouraged to collaborate, share knowledge, and work towards common objectives. Leadership plays a crucial role in promoting this culture by emphasizing the importance of security, providing resources and support, and leading by example.
By promoting cooperation and collaboration among teams, organizations can enhance their security posture, reduce the risk of breaches, and ultimately safeguard their valuable assets and reputation. Shifting left is just the beginning; ongoing synergy and communication are essential for long-term success in the ever-changing landscape of cybersecurity.
To learn more about cultural and tactical strategies for secure coding, read this guide to creating secure applications.
