What are the Key Challenges of DevSecOps Implementation and How to Tackle Them?
DevSecOps requires the integration of security at the development and operation phase of the software. The implementation of this method requires extensive training and expert guidance. Since DevSecOps urges software developers to pay attention to security and speed even at metadata levels, the process is comprehensive and elaborate.
Software developers need the education to help them learn and understand more about Dev Sec Ops. While the technique is highly conducive to the development and launching of high-speed, high-security apps, there are several challenges that organizations will face while adopting the DevSecOps method.
Complex and Technical
DevSecOps is not a method developers can study off a manual. Since the method concerns developing high-security apps that are rampant and robust, it involves many technical details and techniques. Your development team may be discouraged by the lack of simplicity in the beginning.
To successfully ensure that your team adapts to the new significant change, you must ensure that you give them time and guidance to understand the new framework. You could invite DevSecOps experts to your organization to conduct in-house training to help your employees learn more about DevSecOps. It is essential to get a thorough understanding of the method.
Finding the Right Tools
There are several DevSecOps tools to choose from. Each tool serves a different purpose. Initially, software developers may have trouble choosing the right tool to solve specific issues. Understanding your requirements at the software planning level will help resolve this issue to some extent. However, tool requirements are a complex issue that can only be tacked with exhaustive learning and trial and error testing.
Some of the available tools may be inconsistent with the architecture of your software. Further, your team may be more familiar with the tools and techniques they are previously worked with. These tools and methods may be drastically different from the new DevSecOps tools.
Continuous Development and Continuous Integration
DevSecOps require CI/CD level integration for full effectiveness. The new methods and features may function differently than a traditional tool. It takes time and constant effort for developers to attain CD/CI with the DevSecOps method. The task may seem increasingly challenging in the beginning. The best way to tackle the challenge is with regular scanning and regular testing.
DevSecOps is Dynamic
The framework is still relatively new and is changing every day. The software development team may have trouble keeping up the pace at which things change. New methods, tools, and technologies are being developed, and without constant research, your team will not be able to stay updated. You could try forming a dedicated team to keep track of the new developments in the area.
Time and Cost Involved
The implementation of DevSecOps is a time-consuming process. Further, since the process is susceptible to rampant changes, it could also be challenging to understand the same. The cost involved in training your entire staff base and all your teams seem high in the beginning.
The returns it will generate will cover the cost involved. DevSecOps will help your company generate significant gains in the long run. Adoption of DevSecOps will be cost-effective in the long run.
Unlearning Old Methods
Reports show that around 68% of employees in organizations that implemented DevSecOps showed an initial reluctance to accept the new change. To adopt the new framework, employees will have to unlearn traditional programming and coding methods. Developers will also have to rethink concepts of software architecture, software security, and functioning speed.
Summing Up
Adequate time and training are vital factors that will help businesses successfully shift to DevSecOps. Businesses must be willing to bear the initial cost of employing experts, providing training, and reorganizing how they function. Developers need to be educated on the basics and then given more advanced training. DevSecOps teaches developers to create solutions.
