How do you communicate with developers and security professionals on secure coding projects?
Secure coding is the practice of developing software that is free from vulnerabilities and follows security standards and guidelines. It is essential for protecting data, systems, and users from cyberattacks and breaches. However, secure coding is not only a technical skill, but also a collaborative one. You need to communicate effectively with developers and security professionals on secure coding projects to ensure quality, efficiency, and alignment. In this article, you will learn some tips and best practices on how to do that.
The first step to communicate well with developers and security professionals on secure coding projects is to understand the goals and expectations of each stakeholder. What are the security requirements and objectives of the project? What are the timelines and deliverables? What are the roles and responsibilities of each team member? How will the code be tested and reviewed? By clarifying these aspects, you can avoid confusion, conflicts, and misunderstandings, and ensure that everyone is on the same page.
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I would say that security is hydra-headed and challenges come up in the actual developmental and implementation planes. Today, most security solutions have covered known threats very well. Zero day still is in the domain of the unknown. There are secure coding guidelines - OWASP, etc., and several others. Cloud based deployment and use of AI tools add new dimensions of risk. Hence, the solution functionality and architecture need to be decided upon. There could be alternatives with cost implications. These have to be discussed with client, stressing on the business implications. Clients would not be able to define security requirements beyond a point. This is a prerequisite to set security goals.
The second step to communicate well with developers and security professionals on secure coding projects is to use common language and tools. You should avoid jargon, acronyms, and technical terms that might be unfamiliar or ambiguous to others, and instead use clear and simple language that conveys the meaning and intent of your code. You should also use tools that facilitate communication and collaboration, such as code editors, version control systems, chat platforms, and project management software. These tools can help you share code, feedback, updates, and issues, and keep track of the progress and status of the project.
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To avoid delays and setbacks, ensure all members of the project team have access to collaborative folders and other resources at the onset. Often times, one person may be waiting for access to a single file before they can complete their deliverable, which may also be holding up another person's assignment. Removing as many barriers as practicable early on can facilitate a much smoother experience for all parties.
The third step to communicate well with developers and security professionals on secure coding projects is to follow security standards and guidelines. You should adhere to the best practices and principles of secure coding, such as input validation, output encoding, error handling, encryption, authentication, and authorization. You should also follow the security policies and procedures of your organization, such as data protection, access control, incident response, and audit logging. By following security standards and guidelines, you can ensure that your code is consistent, compliant, and secure, and that you meet the expectations of your stakeholders.
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One of the things which we hear across the industry that both the teams show the discomfort of not understanding the priorities and challenges of the opposite team. For developers, its the security best practices which comes post development and Security teams highlight of gaps in the output. These can be avoided by giving awareness of the security standards which we follow in org and what things developers can keep in mind while developing which can also align with security best practices
The fourth step to communicate well with developers and security professionals on secure coding projects is to seek and provide feedback. You should ask for feedback from your peers, mentors, and experts on your code, design, and approach, and be open to suggestions, criticisms, and improvements. You should also provide feedback to others on their code, style, and performance, and be constructive, respectful, and supportive. Feedback is vital for learning, growing, and improving your secure coding skills, as well as for building trust and rapport with your team.
The fifth step to communicate well with developers and security professionals on secure coding projects is to resolve conflicts and issues. You should expect to encounter some challenges, disagreements, and errors in any secure coding project, and be prepared to handle them professionally and effectively. You should communicate clearly and calmly with the parties involved, listen to their perspectives and concerns, and try to find a mutually acceptable solution. You should also escalate the issue to the appropriate authority or mediator if necessary, and document the resolution and outcome.
The sixth and final step to communicate well with developers and security professionals on secure coding projects is to celebrate successes and achievements. You should acknowledge and appreciate the efforts, contributions, and results of your team members, and recognize their strengths, skills, and talents. You should also celebrate your own achievements, and reflect on your learnings, challenges, and growth. By celebrating successes and achievements, you can foster a positive and motivating work environment, and build strong and lasting relationships with your team.
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