Framework: HITRUST

Secure development practices at the e1 level focus on reducing software-related risks through structured, documented procedures. Candidates must understand that even basic application development or configuration work should follow consistent coding and change management standards. HITRUST expects evidence that developers receive security awareness training, use controlled environments for testing, and document how vulnerabilities are identified and remediated. For smaller organizations or SaaS startups, this may mean implementing lightweight controls that establish accountability and repeatability.

Practically, secure development at e1 includes code reviews, approval processes for releases, and restrictions on production access. Even where third-party developers are used, contractual requirements should enforce secure coding expectations. Candidates should note that HITRUST evaluates whether organizations can demonstrate traceability from requirements through release. While advanced techniques like automated scanning are optional at this stage, having clear documentation of how changes are controlled and validated is essential. These foundational practices align with later-stage i1 and r2 controls focused on continuous security integration.
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