A developer workflow is the sequence of tasks used to inspect, write, test, and integrate code. It usually includes editing source, reviewing dependencies, running tests, committing changes, and passing work into build or deployment systems. In security, the workflow matters because every step is a possible control point where unsafe code or untrusted packages can be detected.
Attackers try to slip malicious dependencies, typosquatted packages, or backdoored changes into that workflow before code is reviewed or shipped. Defenders respond by adding checks such as package trust policies, code signing, workspace trust, automated testing, and approval gates inside the editor or CI pipeline. Bringing these controls closer to the developer’s daily tools can reduce risky decisions made under time pressure and help catch supply-chain threats earlier.