Analysis of Strategies for the Integration of Security Practices in Agile Software Development: A Sustainable SME Approach

Abstract

Incorporating security into software development in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) is an increasingly relevant challenge and a crucial necessity, especially in an uncertain and fast-paced environment like that of an agile setting. Given the growing threat of cyberattacks, it is imperative to address this issue. This article examines and subsequently analyzes existing strategies in the literature regarding secure software development in the context of SMEs employing agile methodologies. The study initiates a systematic literature review to identify strategies employed in this context. The findings reveal that 57.9% of the studies present strategies to tackle security in agile software development, with 20.2% specifically focusing on SMEs. Subsequently, practices demonstrating success in integrating security measures into the software development lifecycle (SDLC) are analyzed and categorized. The results underscore the necessity of addressing security in the agile environment, as it remains a significant challenge in software development. Effective approaches are also required for small businesses to ensure application protection and long-term sustainability.INDEX TERMS agile development; security practices; secure development; SMEs; sustainability