What is the purpose of controls for system acquisition, development, and maintenance?

The purpose of controls for system acquisition, development, and maintenance is to integrate security into new information systems. This integration is crucial because as organizations develop or procure new systems, they need to ensure that security measures are considered and embedded from the outset. By prioritizing security during these stages, organizations can mitigate risks associated with vulnerabilities and protect sensitive data against potential threats.

Implementing controls during acquisition, development, and maintenance activities helps to ensure that the systems comply with relevant security policies and standards, such as ISO 27001, and align with the overarching security framework of the organization. This proactive approach reduces the likelihood of security incidents and enhances the overall resilience of the organization’s information systems.

In contrast, while ensuring cost-effective solutions and addressing vendor lock-in are important considerations in system acquisition and management, they do not directly relate to the primary goal of enhancing security. Similarly, streamlining project management, although beneficial, focuses more on efficiency and process rather than specifically on integrating security into the systems themselves.