How can developers and IT security personnel resolve conflicts effectively?

1 Understand the goals

The first step to resolving conflicts is to understand the goals of each party. Developers want to create software that meets the requirements, performs well, and is easy to maintain. IT security personnel want to ensure that the software is compliant, resilient, and protected from threats. Both parties share the common goal of delivering value to the customers and the organization. By acknowledging and respecting the goals of each party, developers and IT security personnel can avoid assuming bad intentions or dismissing valid concerns.

2 Communicate clearly

The second step to resolving conflicts is to communicate clearly and frequently. Developers and IT security personnel should use common language, avoid jargon, and explain technical terms when necessary. They should also provide feedback, ask questions, and listen actively to each other. Communication should be timely, transparent, and constructive. Developers and IT security personnel should avoid blaming, criticizing, or ignoring each other. Instead, they should focus on finding solutions, sharing ideas, and learning from each other.

3 Collaborate early

The third step to resolving conflicts is to collaborate early and often. Developers and IT security personnel should not work in silos or wait until the end of the development cycle to address security issues. They should involve each other from the start of the project, define roles and responsibilities, and establish expectations and standards. They should also use tools and processes that facilitate collaboration, such as code reviews, testing, version control, and agile methodologies. By collaborating early, developers and IT security personnel can prevent or minimize conflicts, identify and fix problems, and deliver secure and functional software faster.

4 Compromise wisely

The fourth step to resolving conflicts is to compromise wisely and fairly. Developers and IT security personnel should recognize that they may not always get what they want or need. They should be flexible, adaptable, and willing to make trade-offs when necessary. However, they should also be careful not to compromise on essential aspects of quality, security, or functionality. They should prioritize the most important and urgent issues, evaluate the pros and cons of each option, and agree on the best solution for the situation.

5 Learn and improve

The fifth step to resolving conflicts is to learn and improve from the experience. Developers and IT security personnel should not view conflicts as failures or sources of resentment. They should view them as opportunities to learn, grow, and enhance their skills and relationships. They should reflect on what went well and what went wrong, what they learned and what they can do better, and how they can prevent or resolve similar conflicts in the future. They should also celebrate their achievements, appreciate their contributions, and acknowledge their efforts.

6 Respect and trust

The sixth and final step to resolving conflicts is to respect and trust each other. Developers and IT security personnel should treat each other with professionalism, courtesy, and kindness. They should respect each other's expertise, opinions, and preferences. They should also trust each other's abilities, intentions, and judgments. They should not micromanage, interfere, or undermine each other. Instead, they should support, empower, and encourage each other. By respecting and trusting each other, developers and IT security personnel can build a positive and productive working relationship.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?