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A Secure Development Policy sets the rules and standards for creating safe software and systems within an organization. It guides developers and IT teams through essential security practices, from initial design to final deployment, following Austrian data protection requirements and EU cybersecurity frameworks.

The policy helps organizations meet their legal obligations under Austria's Network and Information Systems Security Act while protecting sensitive data and intellectual property. It typically covers code review procedures, security testing protocols, and incident response plans. Companies use it to demonstrate compliance during audits and to maintain customer trust in their digital products.

Implement a Secure Development Policy when your organization starts creating or maintaining software products, especially those handling sensitive data or critical infrastructure. This becomes crucial for Austrian companies subject to the Network and Information Systems Security Act or developing solutions for healthcare, banking, or government sectors.

The policy needs to be in place before starting new development projects, during major system updates, or when expanding into regulated markets. It's particularly vital when working with external developers, integrating third-party components, or preparing for security certifications. Many Austrian organizations create or update their policy during digital transformation initiatives or after security incidents.

• Basic Development Security: Focuses on fundamental code security practices, vulnerability scanning, and basic access controls - suitable for smaller Austrian software companies.
• Enterprise-Grade Policy: Comprehensive framework covering advanced threat modeling, CI/CD security, and compliance with Austrian NIS regulations - designed for large organizations.
• Critical Infrastructure Policy: Enhanced security controls and strict audit requirements aligned with EU critical infrastructure directives - mandatory for utilities and essential services.
• FinTech-Specific Policy: Tailored for financial technology companies, incorporating Austrian Financial Market Authority requirements and banking security standards.
• Healthcare Development Policy: Specialized version meeting medical device security requirements and Austrian healthcare data protection standards.

• Development Teams: Must follow the Secure Development Policy daily when writing code, conducting security reviews, and deploying software updates.
• IT Security Officers: Create and maintain the policy, ensuring it aligns with Austrian cybersecurity regulations and industry standards.
• Legal Departments: Review policy compliance with Austrian data protection laws and help integrate regulatory requirements.
• External Contractors: Required to adhere to the policy when developing or maintaining systems for the organization.
• Compliance Managers: Monitor policy implementation and prepare documentation for security audits and certifications.

• System Inventory: Document all software applications, development tools, and third-party components used in your organization.
• Risk Assessment: Map out potential security threats and compliance requirements under Austrian NIS regulations.
• Team Structure: Identify key roles, responsibilities, and approval workflows in your development process.
• Security Controls: List required security measures, testing procedures, and code review protocols.
• Incident Response: Define procedures for handling security breaches and vulnerability reports.
• Review Process: Establish how often the policy needs updating and who approves changes.

• Scope Statement: Clear definition of systems, applications, and development processes covered under Austrian law.
• Security Requirements: Specific technical controls aligned with NIS Act requirements and EU cybersecurity standards.
• Data Protection Measures: Procedures complying with Austrian DSG and GDPR for handling sensitive information.
• Incident Response Protocol: Mandatory reporting procedures for security breaches under Austrian regulations.
• Compliance Framework: References to relevant Austrian standards and industry-specific requirements.
• Review Procedures: Documentation of regular policy updates and security assessments.
• Enforcement Mechanisms: Clear consequences for non-compliance and security violations.

While both documents address digital security, a Secure Development Policy differs significantly from an IT Security Policy. Understanding these differences helps organizations maintain proper security governance in Austria.

• Focus and Scope: Secure Development Policies specifically target software development processes and coding practices, while IT Security Policies cover broader organizational technology use and general security measures.
• Technical Detail: Development policies include specific coding standards, security testing requirements, and deployment protocols. IT Security Policies deal with general system access, data handling, and user behavior.
• Primary Users: Development teams and software engineers primarily work with Secure Development Policies, while IT Security Policies apply to all employees using company technology.
• Compliance Requirements: Development policies align with Austrian software development standards and specific industry certifications, whereas IT Security Policies focus on general data protection and cybersecurity regulations.