The Department of Defense (DoD) has certainly taken a big step forward to safeguard both the data itself and the companies that interact with this data in the form of the CMMC framework. This is a unique data protocol in the sense that it requires a mixture of hardware, software, and data handling techniques for firms to achieve compliance, even at the basic level.
As you might know, there are five levels to the CMMC. However, here are 6 things that you need to know, regardless of which level you are aiming to attain qualification for.
-
Documentation
In order to become CMMC compliant you will need to be assessed by a third-party evaluation organization that will examine both the processes and the controls that you have in place and how well you are trained to manage the data in accordance with CMMC guidelines. In order to qualify not only should you have the processes and systems ready, but you need to compile these in a streamlined manner so that the evaluation company can come in and quickly move through your approach and evaluate whether or not you are ready for the transition. Not having this documentation ready will seriously hinder your progress even if you have all the groundwork in place.
-
Data Management
More than just your overall systems, processes, and workflows, the evaluating organization is also going to look at how exactly you manage individual pieces of data. How they are stored, how they are accessed, and how well they are protected within the organization. Make sure you have specific solutions for data management at the micro-level.
-
Time
Qualifying for CMMC can be a long process depending on your specific organization. If you plan on bidding on future projects, it's best to start as soon as possible as there is no telling how long it may take you to qualify. Ideally, you should start with the CMMC readiness assessment which will give you an idea of what you need to do to be eligible and will also give you an idea of how long it could take.
-
Dedicated Infrastructure
Unlike other data management protocols, the CMMC calls for some very specific solutions at both the micro and macro levels. A lot of companies are making this easier for themselves by creating a dedicated workspace that is specifically intended to help the business achieve the CMMC requirements. Everything from the databases to even the physical layout of the IT infrastructure is focused on CMMC requirements. This can be a lot more efficient and cost-effective than modifying your current workspace.
-
Attention To Detail
While CMMC qualification requires a significant change in the way data is managed in your company, and even the overall IT infrastructure, it can have an impact on the overall structure of the business. More than just IT, and Security departments, you may have to make changes to the broader organization as well. It’s a good idea to think of financing solutions for these changes as they can be quite expensive and also to look at the matter as a structural remodeling of the business and not just a change in data management.
-
Holistic Approach
With a holistic approach, you can more effectively reach the CMMC qualification. There is no option to be part qualified or to only achieve the end goal, you need to fulfill all the requirements and your business must tick every box. Therefore go in with the approach that this is going to be a significant change and not just a minor tweak, so you can qualify the first time around and not have to spend any more time than is necessary.
714-333-9620