What is the reason software security teams host discovery meetings with stakeholders early in the development life cycle?

Hosting discovery meetings with stakeholders early in the development life cycle is crucial for ensuring that security is integrated into the software from the very beginning. This proactive approach allows security teams to engage with various stakeholders to understand their concerns, expectations, and any potential risks associated with the project. By including security considerations at this initial stage, the team can identify and prioritize security requirements that will guide the development process.

Incorporating security early helps to establish a culture of security within the project, enabling all team members to recognize its importance and work towards implementing secure coding practices. This approach also fosters collaboration among stakeholders, helping to align security goals with business objectives. As a result, the software is more likely to be resilient against threats and vulnerabilities, minimizing the risk of costly fixes or security breaches later in the development process or after the product is deployed. Overall, this is an essential aspect of secure software design, reinforcing the idea that security should not be an afterthought but a fundamental aspect of the development process.