Finding Secure Agile/Lean Product Development Software in a Non-Cloud Environment

When working in a company that does not allow cloud software due to security concerns, finding the right tools for agile and lean product development can indeed be a challenge. However, there are several strategies and options available that can help bridge this gap. Let's explore a comprehensive approach to finding secure, non-cloud software solutions for your product development needs.

Understanding Security Concerns and Misconceptions

First, let's address the common misconception that cloud software is inherently less secure than on-premises software.

Myth: Cloud software is automatically less secure and non-compliant with enterprise security policies.

Factual Counterpoint: Security is a design choice. Cloud providers and on-premises software vendors must adhere to stringent security standards and regulations, ensuring data privacy and protection. Many cloud providers, such as Azure and AWS, offer specialized versions like Azure Government or AWS GovCloud, which are designed to meet stringent regulatory standards.

Research and Shortlist Secure Non-Cloud Tools

With this understanding, it's time to conduct a thorough survey of non-cloud product development software options. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Identify the Key Requirements

Agile/Lean methodology support Secure data storage and transmission Integration capabilities with existing systems Compliance with industry standards (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA) User-friendly interface and support

Step 2: Shortlist Potential Tools

With your criteria in mind, compile a list of the most promising tools. Some notable options include:

Toad Fairy: A secure, on-premises alternative for agile project management, emphasizing privacy and security. Redline Software: Offers comprehensive project management tools tailored for agile development, with a focus on enterprise security. Cinky: A popular, on-premises tool for agile project management that supports a wide range of methodologies.

Step 3: Contact Vendor for Details

Reach out to these vendors for detailed information on their security measures. Ask for:

A technical white paper on their security architecture Case studies on customer successes Testimonials from other satisfied users Demos or trials to assess functionality

Engage with IT Policy Makers

Once you have gathered the necessary information, engage with the IT policy makers in your organization. Use your findings to challenge the current stance on non-cloud software:

Step 1: Present the Research

Prepare a summary of your findings, emphasizing the security aspects of non-cloud alternatives. Use credible sources and Whitepapers from vendors to bolster your argument.

Step 2: Provide Comparative Analysis

Show how non-cloud solutions can still meet the high-security standards required by your organization. For instance, a local installation of a tool like Microsoft Team Foundation Server (TFS) or Atlassian Jira might offer the same level of security and compliance as their cloud-based counterparts, but with the added benefit of being managed on-premises.

Step 3: Ask for Specific Reasons

Request specific reasons why certain tools cannot be used. This could reveal underlying concerns or potential blind spots that might be addressed through improved communication and understanding.

Escalation and Job Seeking

If your efforts to change the IT policy fail, consider the following steps:

Step 1: Escalate the Issue

If necessary, escalate the issue to a higher-level manager or executive who may have more influence over IT policies. Providing a strong business case grounded in security and compliance can often sway more senior decision-makers.

Transitioning to Non-Cloud Software

If you find that the company is unwilling to change, exploring non-cloud alternatives may be the best course of action. There are several cloud-native tools that offer local deployment options:

Azure DevOps: While primarily a cloud service, it also supports on-premises deployments, ensuring you can still leverage the power of Microsoft's platform. Jira: With a self-hosted version, you can install Jira on your company's servers, providing the flexibility and security you need. Ansible Tower: For configuration management, Ansible Tower supports both cloud and on-premises environments, offering a secure and customizable solution.

Conclusion

The key to finding the right product development software in a non-cloud environment is thorough research, clear communication, and a willingness to explore flexible options. By understanding the security features of on-premises solutions and engaging with IT policy makers, you can ensure that your organization has the right tools to manage product development effectively and securely.