The ROI of an Agile Learning Platform
Agile learning for secure code in the SDLC pays off
This is the third in a three-part blog series discussing the attributes and benefits of an Agile Learning Platform for secure code. In part 1 we introduced the concept of agile learning and how Secure Code Warrior’s platform exemplifies several agile principles. In part 2 we explored how an agile learning platform replaces traditional compliance-oriented security training.
An agile learning platform delivers a learning experience that allows the learner to internalize and use new skills more effectively, through a combination of hands-on, in-context education that’s truly integrated into their day-to-day job, as part of the job. This approach to learning, as SCW has applied it to developers acquiring secure coding skills, separates SCW from traditional learning modalities and sets us apart. In this third and final blog in the series we walk you through the ROI organizations can expect from an agile learning platform for secure code and how to model the numbers for your organization.
Business impact
Organizations that adopt an agile approach for secure code learning see 2x to 3x business impact from two levers: the ability to fix vulnerabilities faster and rework cost avoidance.
The earlier in the SDLC that vulnerabilities are addressed, the less damage they can cause and the less costly they are to remediate. According to security expert Jim Routh, who previously served as Chief Security Officer at Aetna and CISO at MassMutual, the cost per defect during the phases of the SDLC rise to greater than $14,000 if performed during maintenance mode after the software is released to production. Costs can be halved if addressed during testing and they can be 14 times less expensive if addressed during the coding phase.
The more well-equipped developers are to fix vulnerabilities faster or to avoid them altogether, the less cost and risk an organization must accept in its software products and internal applications. Organizations that want to invest in vulnerability prevention and software quality provide developers with an agile learning platform that delivers flexible experiences and multiple pathways for them to learn, specifically designed for immediate business impact.
Research from NIST indicates that the hours required to fix a vulnerability varies, but the estimates in the table below have been identified in real-world scenarios with large enterprise customers.
After teams develop new secure coding skills, SCW customers have noted their developers fix vulnerabilities as much as 50% to 60% faster and produce 50% fewer high-risk vulnerabilities in production code. Every organization’s experience varies, but these results have been observed at large enterprises with more than 5,000 developers. Increasing developer productivity has had a bottom line impact.
Operational cost reduction: fix vulnerabilities faster
To understand the financial impact of a more secure software development process and how an investment in an agile learning platform helps developers fix vulnerabilities faster, use the model below and substitute your own numbers for the variables in blue:
Baseline:
Assumed benefit of agile learning platform on MTTR (Mean Time To Remediate)
Prevention value: rework cost avoidance
An agile learning platform helps developers write secure code from the start. The model for determining this financial impact is presented below.
Agile learning approach makes a difference
The SCW agile learning platform for secure code is superior to alternative developer security training approaches. SCW customers have seen outstanding results, which of course vary according to the individual costs and vulnerability metrics of their unique situation. One large financial services company, Envestnet, found that SCW-educated developers fixed 2.7x more vulnerabilities than their peers. Additionally, a group of 1,200 SCW-educated developers increased remediation rates in their queue by 120%.
As with any business solution investment, It’s important to evaluate your unique circumstances. Our team can partner with you on an assessment of your current state and develop a customized business case. If you’re looking to assess the impact on your own, use the models outlined in this blog and take a look at a recent customer webinar with Sage, the UK-based $2B Accounting and ERP software company, who discuss an 82% reduction in MTTR for vulnerabilities as part of a robust program to build a security culture.
About Secure Code Warrior
Secure Code Warrior gives your developers the skills to write secure code. Our learning platform is the most effective secure coding solution because it uses agile learning methods for developers to learn, apply, and retain software security principles. Over 600 enterprises trust Secure Code Warrior to implement agile learning security programs, deliver secure software rapidly, and create a culture of developer-driven security. Ready to learn more? Request a demo.
The cost of addressing code vulnerabilities and technical debt is high and continues to suppress software development teams’ productivity. Learn how implementing an agile learning platform for secure code can more effectively train developers on secure coding techniques to fix vulnerabilities faster as well as earlier in the SDLC and prevent them in the first place to drive significant cost avoidance. This blog outlines how to think about the financial impact and ROI of an agile learning platform.
Secure Code Warrior is here for your organization to help you secure code across the entire software development lifecycle and create a culture in which cybersecurity is top of mind. Whether you’re an AppSec Manager, Developer, CISO, or anyone involved in security, we can help your organization reduce risks associated with insecure code.
Book a demoVivek is a former VP of Product Marketing at Secure Code Warrior, where he led positioning, messaging, and GTM strategy.
Agile learning for secure code in the SDLC pays off
This is the third in a three-part blog series discussing the attributes and benefits of an Agile Learning Platform for secure code. In part 1 we introduced the concept of agile learning and how Secure Code Warrior’s platform exemplifies several agile principles. In part 2 we explored how an agile learning platform replaces traditional compliance-oriented security training.
An agile learning platform delivers a learning experience that allows the learner to internalize and use new skills more effectively, through a combination of hands-on, in-context education that’s truly integrated into their day-to-day job, as part of the job. This approach to learning, as SCW has applied it to developers acquiring secure coding skills, separates SCW from traditional learning modalities and sets us apart. In this third and final blog in the series we walk you through the ROI organizations can expect from an agile learning platform for secure code and how to model the numbers for your organization.
Business impact
Organizations that adopt an agile approach for secure code learning see 2x to 3x business impact from two levers: the ability to fix vulnerabilities faster and rework cost avoidance.
The earlier in the SDLC that vulnerabilities are addressed, the less damage they can cause and the less costly they are to remediate. According to security expert Jim Routh, who previously served as Chief Security Officer at Aetna and CISO at MassMutual, the cost per defect during the phases of the SDLC rise to greater than $14,000 if performed during maintenance mode after the software is released to production. Costs can be halved if addressed during testing and they can be 14 times less expensive if addressed during the coding phase.
The more well-equipped developers are to fix vulnerabilities faster or to avoid them altogether, the less cost and risk an organization must accept in its software products and internal applications. Organizations that want to invest in vulnerability prevention and software quality provide developers with an agile learning platform that delivers flexible experiences and multiple pathways for them to learn, specifically designed for immediate business impact.
Research from NIST indicates that the hours required to fix a vulnerability varies, but the estimates in the table below have been identified in real-world scenarios with large enterprise customers.
After teams develop new secure coding skills, SCW customers have noted their developers fix vulnerabilities as much as 50% to 60% faster and produce 50% fewer high-risk vulnerabilities in production code. Every organization’s experience varies, but these results have been observed at large enterprises with more than 5,000 developers. Increasing developer productivity has had a bottom line impact.
Operational cost reduction: fix vulnerabilities faster
To understand the financial impact of a more secure software development process and how an investment in an agile learning platform helps developers fix vulnerabilities faster, use the model below and substitute your own numbers for the variables in blue:
Baseline:
Assumed benefit of agile learning platform on MTTR (Mean Time To Remediate)
Prevention value: rework cost avoidance
An agile learning platform helps developers write secure code from the start. The model for determining this financial impact is presented below.
Agile learning approach makes a difference
The SCW agile learning platform for secure code is superior to alternative developer security training approaches. SCW customers have seen outstanding results, which of course vary according to the individual costs and vulnerability metrics of their unique situation. One large financial services company, Envestnet, found that SCW-educated developers fixed 2.7x more vulnerabilities than their peers. Additionally, a group of 1,200 SCW-educated developers increased remediation rates in their queue by 120%.
As with any business solution investment, It’s important to evaluate your unique circumstances. Our team can partner with you on an assessment of your current state and develop a customized business case. If you’re looking to assess the impact on your own, use the models outlined in this blog and take a look at a recent customer webinar with Sage, the UK-based $2B Accounting and ERP software company, who discuss an 82% reduction in MTTR for vulnerabilities as part of a robust program to build a security culture.
About Secure Code Warrior
Secure Code Warrior gives your developers the skills to write secure code. Our learning platform is the most effective secure coding solution because it uses agile learning methods for developers to learn, apply, and retain software security principles. Over 600 enterprises trust Secure Code Warrior to implement agile learning security programs, deliver secure software rapidly, and create a culture of developer-driven security. Ready to learn more? Request a demo.
Agile learning for secure code in the SDLC pays off
This is the third in a three-part blog series discussing the attributes and benefits of an Agile Learning Platform for secure code. In part 1 we introduced the concept of agile learning and how Secure Code Warrior’s platform exemplifies several agile principles. In part 2 we explored how an agile learning platform replaces traditional compliance-oriented security training.
An agile learning platform delivers a learning experience that allows the learner to internalize and use new skills more effectively, through a combination of hands-on, in-context education that’s truly integrated into their day-to-day job, as part of the job. This approach to learning, as SCW has applied it to developers acquiring secure coding skills, separates SCW from traditional learning modalities and sets us apart. In this third and final blog in the series we walk you through the ROI organizations can expect from an agile learning platform for secure code and how to model the numbers for your organization.
Business impact
Organizations that adopt an agile approach for secure code learning see 2x to 3x business impact from two levers: the ability to fix vulnerabilities faster and rework cost avoidance.
The earlier in the SDLC that vulnerabilities are addressed, the less damage they can cause and the less costly they are to remediate. According to security expert Jim Routh, who previously served as Chief Security Officer at Aetna and CISO at MassMutual, the cost per defect during the phases of the SDLC rise to greater than $14,000 if performed during maintenance mode after the software is released to production. Costs can be halved if addressed during testing and they can be 14 times less expensive if addressed during the coding phase.
The more well-equipped developers are to fix vulnerabilities faster or to avoid them altogether, the less cost and risk an organization must accept in its software products and internal applications. Organizations that want to invest in vulnerability prevention and software quality provide developers with an agile learning platform that delivers flexible experiences and multiple pathways for them to learn, specifically designed for immediate business impact.
Research from NIST indicates that the hours required to fix a vulnerability varies, but the estimates in the table below have been identified in real-world scenarios with large enterprise customers.
After teams develop new secure coding skills, SCW customers have noted their developers fix vulnerabilities as much as 50% to 60% faster and produce 50% fewer high-risk vulnerabilities in production code. Every organization’s experience varies, but these results have been observed at large enterprises with more than 5,000 developers. Increasing developer productivity has had a bottom line impact.
Operational cost reduction: fix vulnerabilities faster
To understand the financial impact of a more secure software development process and how an investment in an agile learning platform helps developers fix vulnerabilities faster, use the model below and substitute your own numbers for the variables in blue:
Baseline:
Assumed benefit of agile learning platform on MTTR (Mean Time To Remediate)
Prevention value: rework cost avoidance
An agile learning platform helps developers write secure code from the start. The model for determining this financial impact is presented below.
Agile learning approach makes a difference
The SCW agile learning platform for secure code is superior to alternative developer security training approaches. SCW customers have seen outstanding results, which of course vary according to the individual costs and vulnerability metrics of their unique situation. One large financial services company, Envestnet, found that SCW-educated developers fixed 2.7x more vulnerabilities than their peers. Additionally, a group of 1,200 SCW-educated developers increased remediation rates in their queue by 120%.
As with any business solution investment, It’s important to evaluate your unique circumstances. Our team can partner with you on an assessment of your current state and develop a customized business case. If you’re looking to assess the impact on your own, use the models outlined in this blog and take a look at a recent customer webinar with Sage, the UK-based $2B Accounting and ERP software company, who discuss an 82% reduction in MTTR for vulnerabilities as part of a robust program to build a security culture.
About Secure Code Warrior
Secure Code Warrior gives your developers the skills to write secure code. Our learning platform is the most effective secure coding solution because it uses agile learning methods for developers to learn, apply, and retain software security principles. Over 600 enterprises trust Secure Code Warrior to implement agile learning security programs, deliver secure software rapidly, and create a culture of developer-driven security. Ready to learn more? Request a demo.
Click on the link below and download the PDF of this resource.
Secure Code Warrior is here for your organization to help you secure code across the entire software development lifecycle and create a culture in which cybersecurity is top of mind. Whether you’re an AppSec Manager, Developer, CISO, or anyone involved in security, we can help your organization reduce risks associated with insecure code.
View reportBook a demoVivek is a former VP of Product Marketing at Secure Code Warrior, where he led positioning, messaging, and GTM strategy.
Agile learning for secure code in the SDLC pays off
This is the third in a three-part blog series discussing the attributes and benefits of an Agile Learning Platform for secure code. In part 1 we introduced the concept of agile learning and how Secure Code Warrior’s platform exemplifies several agile principles. In part 2 we explored how an agile learning platform replaces traditional compliance-oriented security training.
An agile learning platform delivers a learning experience that allows the learner to internalize and use new skills more effectively, through a combination of hands-on, in-context education that’s truly integrated into their day-to-day job, as part of the job. This approach to learning, as SCW has applied it to developers acquiring secure coding skills, separates SCW from traditional learning modalities and sets us apart. In this third and final blog in the series we walk you through the ROI organizations can expect from an agile learning platform for secure code and how to model the numbers for your organization.
Business impact
Organizations that adopt an agile approach for secure code learning see 2x to 3x business impact from two levers: the ability to fix vulnerabilities faster and rework cost avoidance.
The earlier in the SDLC that vulnerabilities are addressed, the less damage they can cause and the less costly they are to remediate. According to security expert Jim Routh, who previously served as Chief Security Officer at Aetna and CISO at MassMutual, the cost per defect during the phases of the SDLC rise to greater than $14,000 if performed during maintenance mode after the software is released to production. Costs can be halved if addressed during testing and they can be 14 times less expensive if addressed during the coding phase.
The more well-equipped developers are to fix vulnerabilities faster or to avoid them altogether, the less cost and risk an organization must accept in its software products and internal applications. Organizations that want to invest in vulnerability prevention and software quality provide developers with an agile learning platform that delivers flexible experiences and multiple pathways for them to learn, specifically designed for immediate business impact.
Research from NIST indicates that the hours required to fix a vulnerability varies, but the estimates in the table below have been identified in real-world scenarios with large enterprise customers.
After teams develop new secure coding skills, SCW customers have noted their developers fix vulnerabilities as much as 50% to 60% faster and produce 50% fewer high-risk vulnerabilities in production code. Every organization’s experience varies, but these results have been observed at large enterprises with more than 5,000 developers. Increasing developer productivity has had a bottom line impact.
Operational cost reduction: fix vulnerabilities faster
To understand the financial impact of a more secure software development process and how an investment in an agile learning platform helps developers fix vulnerabilities faster, use the model below and substitute your own numbers for the variables in blue:
Baseline:
Assumed benefit of agile learning platform on MTTR (Mean Time To Remediate)
Prevention value: rework cost avoidance
An agile learning platform helps developers write secure code from the start. The model for determining this financial impact is presented below.
Agile learning approach makes a difference
The SCW agile learning platform for secure code is superior to alternative developer security training approaches. SCW customers have seen outstanding results, which of course vary according to the individual costs and vulnerability metrics of their unique situation. One large financial services company, Envestnet, found that SCW-educated developers fixed 2.7x more vulnerabilities than their peers. Additionally, a group of 1,200 SCW-educated developers increased remediation rates in their queue by 120%.
As with any business solution investment, It’s important to evaluate your unique circumstances. Our team can partner with you on an assessment of your current state and develop a customized business case. If you’re looking to assess the impact on your own, use the models outlined in this blog and take a look at a recent customer webinar with Sage, the UK-based $2B Accounting and ERP software company, who discuss an 82% reduction in MTTR for vulnerabilities as part of a robust program to build a security culture.
About Secure Code Warrior
Secure Code Warrior gives your developers the skills to write secure code. Our learning platform is the most effective secure coding solution because it uses agile learning methods for developers to learn, apply, and retain software security principles. Over 600 enterprises trust Secure Code Warrior to implement agile learning security programs, deliver secure software rapidly, and create a culture of developer-driven security. Ready to learn more? Request a demo.
Table of contents
Secure Code Warrior is here for your organization to help you secure code across the entire software development lifecycle and create a culture in which cybersecurity is top of mind. Whether you’re an AppSec Manager, Developer, CISO, or anyone involved in security, we can help your organization reduce risks associated with insecure code.
Book a demoDownloadResources to get you started
Benchmarking Security Skills: Streamlining Secure-by-Design in the Enterprise
The Secure-by-Design movement is the future of secure software development. Learn about the key elements companies need to keep in mind when they think about a Secure-by-Design initiative.
DigitalOcean Decreases Security Debt with Secure Code Warrior
DigitalOcean's use of Secure Code Warrior training has significantly reduced security debt, allowing teams to focus more on innovation and productivity. The improved security has strengthened their product quality and competitive edge. Looking ahead, the SCW Trust Score will help them further enhance security practices and continue driving innovation.
Resources to get you started
Trust Score Reveals the Value of Secure-by-Design Upskilling Initiatives
Our research has shown that secure code training works. Trust Score, using an algorithm drawing on more than 20 million learning data points from work by more than 250,000 learners at over 600 organizations, reveals its effectiveness in driving down vulnerabilities and how to make the initiative even more effective.
Reactive Versus Preventive Security: Prevention Is a Better Cure
The idea of bringing preventive security to legacy code and systems at the same time as newer applications can seem daunting, but a Secure-by-Design approach, enforced by upskilling developers, can apply security best practices to those systems. It’s the best chance many organizations have of improving their security postures.
The Benefits of Benchmarking Security Skills for Developers
The growing focus on secure code and Secure-by-Design principles requires developers to be trained in cybersecurity from the start of the SDLC, with tools like Secure Code Warrior’s Trust Score helping measure and improve their progress.
Driving Meaningful Success for Enterprise Secure-by-Design Initiatives
Our latest research paper, Benchmarking Security Skills: Streamlining Secure-by-Design in the Enterprise is the result of deep analysis of real Secure-by-Design initiatives at the enterprise level, and deriving best practice approaches based on data-driven findings.