Blockchain-Enabled Software Development Traceability: Ensuring Secure and Transparent Software Lifecycle Management

Abstract

Strong traceability procedures are required due to the growing complexity of software development in order to provide security, accountability, and transparency. The Blockchain-Enabled Software Development Traceability (BESDT) approach is presented in this paper. It uses the immutable ledger of blockchain technology to produce an auditable and verifiable record of all software activity. To improve traceability, automate compliance checks, and safeguard the software development lifecycle, the framework combines smart contracts, IoT, and AI. Smart contracts enable real-time updates, automated compliance enforcement, and secure audit trails, reducing unauthorized modifications and increasing stakeholder trust. Key performance metrics demonstrate the effectiveness of the Combined Method, achieving 96.5% Code Generation Accuracy, 93.5% Code Optimisation Rate, 100 ms Execution Speed, and 90.5% Code Coverage, outperforming individual blockchain implementations. The proposed system documents software modifications from initial design to final deployment, guaranteeing data integrity and process accountability. This strategy reduces security threats, improves software lifecycle management, and guarantees regulatory compliance by fusing blockchain with cutting-edge technology. BESDT is an attractive solution for sectors that demand high compliance and accountability since it enhances traceability, optimizes security, and streamlines software workflows. Blockchain's potential to transform software development traceability through tamper-proof records, automated validation, and increased efficiency is confirmed by this study. To increase adoption in large-scale software development environments, future research can concentrate on energy-efficient blockchain solutions, scalability, and compatibility with DevOps tools.