Secure Development Policy
A secure development policy template defining security requirements across the software development lifecycle, covering secure coding, code review, dependency management and separation of environments, aligned to ISO 27001, NIST SP 800-53 and PCI DSS.
What's Included
1. Purpose & Scope
Defines the objective and which applications, teams and pipelines are covered.
2. Secure Development Lifecycle
Embeds security activities into each phase rather than at release.
3. Secure Coding Standards
Establishes the coding standards developers are measured against.
4. Code Review & Testing
Requires review and automated testing before code reaches production.
5. Dependency & Supply Chain
Governs third-party libraries and build-chain integrity.
6. Environment Separation
Keeps development, test and production separated with controlled promotion.
7. Records & Review
Defines the evidence an assessor expects and the review cadence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should a secure development policy include?
A comprehensive secure development policy should include purpose & scope, secure development lifecycle, secure coding standards, code review & testing, and more. This template covers 7 key sections aligned to ISO 27001, NIST SP 800-53, PCI DSS, NIST CSF requirements.
Which frameworks require a information security policy?
Major frameworks requiring information security policies include ISO 27001, NIST SP 800-53, PCI DSS, NIST CSF. This template maps directly to their control requirements, making it easier to demonstrate compliance across multiple standards.
How often should a secure development policy be reviewed?
Best practice is to review your secure development policy at least annually, or whenever significant changes occur in your organisation, technology environment, or regulatory landscape. Most frameworks including ISO 27001 and NIST CSF require documented policy review cycles.
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