Developers Struggle to Balance Innovation and Safety, Survey Finds

In today’s fast-paced world of technology, developers and software engineers are constantly under pressure to innovate quickly while ensuring safety and security. According to a recent survey by software provider BlackBerry Limited, this balancing act is becoming increasingly difficult for professionals in the industry.

Released on October 8, the survey collected insights from 1,000 embedded software developers and engineers worldwide. The findings revealed a growing dilemma between meeting tight project deadlines and upholding key safety requirements. This research is particularly relevant to BlackBerry’s BlackBerry QNX real-time OS and software for embedded systems.

It was discovered that 75% of respondents admitted to compromising on essential safety requirements due to time constraints. While security (54%), cost control (52%), and safety certifications (48%) are top priorities when selecting an operating system, the survey also highlighted various challenges faced by developers in these areas. As a result, 74% of respondents are open to changing their current OS. For those required to meet international safety standards, 61% find it extremely challenging to do so with their existing operating system. Security concerns (36%) and performance issues (28%) are driving factors behind this potential change.

As the demand for innovation continues to rise, developers must find a way to navigate the intricate balance between speed and safety. BlackBerry’s survey sheds light on the challenges faced by professionals in the field and underscores the importance of addressing these issues to ensure the integrity and security of software systems.