The purpose of this policy is to define requirements for system security planning and management to improve protection of Company information system resources. Security has to be considered at all stages of the life cycle of an information system (i.e., feasibility, planning, development, implementation, maintenance, and retirement) in order to: a) ensure conformance with all appropriate security requirements, b) protect sensitive information throughout its life cycle, c) facilitate efficient implementation of security controls, d) prevent the introduction of new risks when the system is modified, and e) ensure proper removal of data when the system is retired. This policy provides guidance to ensure that systems security is considered during the development and maintenance stages of an information system's life cycle.