Maturity Model for Combined Testing

Organizations typically evolve through maturity stages when implementing combined testing approaches. Initial stages focus on deploying individual tools and gaining basic value. Intermediate stages integrate tools with development workflows and begin correlation. Advanced stages feature full orchestration, intelligent automation, and predictive analytics. Understanding these stages helps set realistic expectations and plan progression.

Level 1 maturity involves running tools independently with manual result review. Teams might use SAST in development, DAST for compliance scanning, and experiment with IAST. Results are reviewed separately with minimal correlation. This stage provides basic security coverage while teams learn tool capabilities. Focus on building expertise and establishing processes.

Level 3 maturity features integrated workflows with automated orchestration. Tools run automatically based on risk profiles and development events. Results correlate intelligently with unified reporting. Teams proactively address vulnerability patterns rather than individual findings. This stage delivers significant security improvements with minimal friction.

Level 5 maturity implements predictive security using machine learning and advanced analytics. Tools automatically adjust configurations based on effectiveness metrics. AI predicts likely vulnerability introduction points. Security becomes truly embedded in development culture. While few organizations reach this level, it represents the aspirational goal for combined testing programs.