Why Software Composition Analysis Has Become Essential for Modern Developers

In today’s world of modern software development, it’s hard to imagine building an application without open source. From major frameworks to small libraries, open source has become the foundation that accelerates innovation and streamlines development. But behind these advantages, there are hidden risks: exploitable vulnerabilities, complex license compliance issues, and increasingly opaque software supply chains. 

This is where Software Composition Analysis (SCA) comes in. By adopting SCA, developers can continue to move fast while maintaining confidence in the security and compliance of their applications. 

What Is Software Composition Analysis (SCA)? 

Software Composition Analysis (SCA) is an automated method for identifying and mapping the open source libraries and third-party components that make up an application. Its main goal is to provide full visibility into the software’s composition—from primary dependencies to deep transitive components. 

With SCA, both developers and security teams gain a clear understanding of what their applications are built on, making it easier to manage risks around security and compliance. 

How Does Software Composition Analysis (SCA) Work?

SCA acts like a scanner, examining every layer of an application. It doesn’t stop at surface-level dependencies—it digs deeper into hidden transitive dependencies buried in package managers, source code, container images, and even binary files. All of this data is then compiled into a Software Bill of Materials (SBOM), a detailed inventory of every component that powers the application. 

Once the SBOM is created, it’s cross-referenced against security and license databases to identify potential vulnerabilities, compliance risks, or other issues. Because the process is automated and can be seamlessly integrated into existing development workflows, SCA provides critical insights without slowing down innovation. 

Why Software Composition Analysis (SCA) Matters

As reliance on open source and third-party components grows, so does the risk of hidden issues creeping into applications. These risks are more than minor bugs—they can include severe vulnerabilities, complicated licensing requirements, and growing supply chain complexity. 

This is why SCA plays such an important role. It gives developers end-to-end visibility into their software stack, helping them move fast without compromising on security, compliance, or sustainability. 

Strengths and Challenges of Software Composition Analysis (SCA)

On the plus side, Software Composition Analysis (SCA) gives developers a complete view of the open source and third-party components within their applications. This visibility helps catch vulnerabilities earlier, monitor licenses more effectively, and bring transparency to the software supply chain. The result: fast-paced development without sacrificing security or compliance. 

But challenges exist too. SCA can generate a massive amount of data, which may overwhelm teams if not managed properly. Without the right tools and strategy, the insights from SCA can turn into information overload, making it hard for teams to prioritize what truly matters. 

That’s why organizations need an SCA solution that isn’t just accurate, but also practical, scalable, and developer-friendly. This is where Black Duck comes in. 

Black Duck: Smarter Software Composition Analysis

Black Duck SCA goes beyond simply identifying open source—it provides deeper context around the risks that come with it. With multipronged scanning and the industry’s most comprehensive database, Black Duck uncovers dependencies that other tools often miss. Developers can work with confidence, knowing vulnerabilities and license compliance issues won’t slip through the cracks. 

What makes it even stronger is seamless integration. Black Duck is designed to fit naturally into existing SDLC and CI/CD pipelines with minimal friction. Developers keep their workflow intact, while security teams gain complete visibility into the software supply chain. The outcome: applications that reach the market faster, while staying secure, compliant, and sustainable. 

Key Features and Benefits of Black Duck

Tips for Implementing Software Composition Analysis Effectively

Simply having an SCA tool isn’t enough—it’s about how you implement it. Done right, SCA becomes a natural part of the workflow instead of a burden. Success depends on positioning, execution, and ongoing management across the software development lifecycle. 

Start from the Very Beginning

Running SCA early in development ensures risks are caught before they reach production. Developers immediately understand the components they’re using and avoid problematic dependencies from the start.  

Automate in CI/CD Pipelines

Automation makes sure every commit, build, and release goes through scanning without manual steps. This keeps the workflow agile while embedding security into the process.  

Focus on What Matters Most

Not all vulnerabilities or license issues carry the same weight. By setting clear priorities, teams can address critical risks first instead of being bogged down by minor issues.  

Foster Collaboration Between Developers and Security

SCA is only effective when development and security teams are aligned. Shared visibility improves communication, accelerates decision-making, and ultimately delivers safer software to market.  

Learn More: Black Duck on Virtus Technology Indonesia 

Build a Strong SCA Foundation with Virtus

Virtus Technology Indonesia (VTI), part of CTI Group, stands as a trusted partner in helping organizations adopt Software Composition Analysis (SCA) with Black Duck. With deep expertise in application security, Virtus ensures SCA is integrated smoothly, implemented efficiently, and optimized for both developers and security teams. 

Connect with the Virtus team today and discover how Black Duck can become the foundation that secures your organization’s digital future. 

Author: Danurdhara Suluh Prasasta  

CTI Group Content Writer