October 4, 2023
Cybersecurity is a top concern for organizations, especially those dealing with sensitive government contracts. In 2019, the Department of Defense (DoD) introduced the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) to protect sensitive data. The DoD released CMMC 2.0 in November 2021, revamping its previous framework. If this follows the original CMMC rollout schedule, all DoD contracts must meet the CMMC 2.0 standards by late 2025. The DoD’s website shows the Department is in the CMMC 2.0 rulemaking process. For organizations competing for DoD contracts, navigating the complexities of CMMC compliance may seem daunting, but it’s a critical step to secure contracts and maintain trust with clients.
To embark on the journey toward CMMC compliance, the first step to generating internal support is developing a high-level plan. A clear and concise plan will help employees see the vision for achieving compliance. Next, engage stakeholders within your organization on the necessity of compliance to secure future DoD contracts. Highlight the potential risks of non-compliance, such as contract loss and the costs of cybercrime. Engage with your IT and cybersecurity teams to explain the benefits and demonstrate the importance of CMMC certification. As your compliance journey progresses, send regular updates to stakeholders and praise employees for their help.
While CMMC compliance requires a financial commitment, remember that it’s an investment in securing future contracts and safeguarding sensitive data. Depending on your organization’s cybersecurity maturity and existing infrastructure, the total costs can range from $30,000 to over $150,000. Explore funding options, grants, and government incentives that might be available to offset some of the costs. One example is the University of Michigan’s DCAP initiative. Budgeting for compliance should be a strategic priority, and decision-makers should be willing to allocate resources accordingly.
Not all organizations are at the same level of cybersecurity maturity. Prioritizing deployment is crucial. Start with a thorough assessment of your organization’s current cybersecurity posture. Identify weaknesses and vulnerabilities that need immediate attention. A phased approach can help you tackle compliance requirements incrementally, reducing the burden on resources.
Whether to handle CMMC compliance internally or outsource it depends on your organization’s capabilities and resources. If you have a skilled IT and cybersecurity team, tackling compliance in-house might be feasible. However, many organizations find partnering with third-party assessors specializing in CMMC beneficial. Outsourcing can save time, reduce the learning curve, and ensure a thorough and objective assessment.
We understand the challenges your organization faces in navigating the world of cybersecurity. Our experts are ready to guide you through the process and ensure a smooth path to CMMC certification. Contact our experts today to begin your journey to compliance.
Remember, the deadline for compliance is approaching, so act swiftly to safeguard your organization’s future.