The AI Security Maturity Model for AI-First Development Teams

This document outlines a five-stage AI Security Maturity Model guiding software development teams from unmanaged AI usage to operationalized, AI-native security. It defines each stage’s characteristics, common challenges, success criteria, self-assessment checks, and practical next steps, emphasizing a shift from reactive detection to proactive, inline prevention and continuous improvement. The guide includes suggested timelines, measurable outcomes (e.g., reduced MTTR, increased policy coverage, audit readiness), and a 90-day starter plan to assess, pilot, and scale AI governance and controls across the SDLC.