Unraveling : Why Most companies struggle to implement DevSecOps / DevOps Security - Part 1

Introduction

The pressure to deliver secure software within tight deadlines has intensified as the world embraces digital transformation. DevOps / DevSecOps, a disciplined approach to software development, has emerged as a solution to this challenge.

However, despite its growing popularity, many organisations still face difficulties implementing DevSecOps effectively. In this article, we explore the common pitfalls that hinder the success of DevSecOps initiatives.

Understanding DevSecOps or DevOps Security

Before delving into the reasons behind DevSecOps struggles, let's recap the fundamentals. DevSecOps integrates security into the software development process, fostering collaboration among development, security, and operations teams.

The approach emphasises automation, continuous integration and delivery, and a culture of security where security considerations are incorporated from the outset.

Understanding DevSecOps /DevOps Security

Despite its potential benefits, numerous challenges contribute to many organisations' struggles in implementing DevSecOps effectively. Let's examine these challenges and the supporting facts:

1. Lack of Security Expertise:

Fact: According to a survey conducted by the Ponemon Institute, 70% of organisations reported a shortage of skilled cybersecurity personnel. This lack of security expertise poses a significant challenge for organisations implementing DevSecOps effectively.

2.  Lack of Collaboration:

Fact: A study by Puppet reveals that only 22% of organisations have achieved a high level of collaboration between their development, security, and operations teams. The lack of cooperation hampers the successful adoption of DevSecOps practices.

3.  Lack of Automation:

Fact: The State of DevOps Report states that high-performing organisations automate 71% of their security practices, while low performers automate only 27%. The lack of automation tools and practices impedes the smooth execution of DevSecOps.

4.  Lack of Testing and Monitoring:

Fact: According to a report by Synopsys, 85% of organisations admit to having security vulnerabilities in their applications. This highlights the need for robust testing and monitoring throughout the software development lifecycle, a practice often lacking in many organisations.

5.  Lack of Leadership Support:

Fact: A survey by ESG reveals that 65% of organisations struggle to get leadership buy-in for DevSecOps initiatives. Without solid support from leadership, it becomes challenging to drive the necessary cultural shift required for successful DevSecOps implementation.

6.  Lack of Resources:

Fact: A study by Big 4 found that 40% of organisations consider a lack of resources, including time and budget constraints, as a significant barrier to implementing DevSecOps effectively. This shortage of resources affects the ability to invest in necessary tools, training, and personnel required for successful DevSecOps adoption.

Conclusion

While DevSecOps promises to address the challenges of delivering secure software, its successful implementation requires organisations to confront various obstacles head-on. The lack of security expertise, collaboration, automation, testing and monitoring, leadership support, and resources are significant hurdles that must be overcome. By acknowledging these challenges and actively working to address them, organisations can pave the way for a successful DevSecOps journey. So far, this is a distant dream for transforming organisations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is DevSecOps?

DevSecOps is a disciplined approach to software development that emphasises collaboration between development, security, and operations teams while integrating security into the software development process.

Why does DevSecOps struggle in many organisations?

DevSecOps is a disciplined approach to software development that emphasises collaboration between development, security, and operations teams while integrating security into the software development process.

How can organisations address the lack of security expertise?

Organisations can address the lack of security.