Where Defense Contractors Should Start for CMMC 2.0
As the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) continues to reshape the landscape for businesses in the Defense Industrial Base (DIB), proactive preparation is key. But if you’re unsure about what CMMC entails and whether it is worth the endeavor to obtain a Level 2 certification, you’re not alone. Many contractors grapple with these foundational questions. The good news? Help Desk Cavalry is here to guide you through these challenges and help you lay the groundwork for successful CMMC compliance.
Let’s dive into the key conversations your organization should be having—and how we can step in to support you if needed.
Identify Contracts Containing CUI
Start by taking a close look at your current government contracts. Which ones involve CUI? Not every contract requires handling sensitive information, so pinpointing the ones that do is critical. If you are unsure, you may ask your prime contractor or contracting officer if your contract contains CUI. This understanding will help you:
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- Conduct a ROI analysis. Once you’ve identified contracts containing CUI, ask: Does the income generated justify the effort and cost of obtaining CMMC certification? This analysis will clarify whether certification aligns with your financial and strategic goals.
- Define the scope of compliance. Knowing if and where CUI is involved helps you determine your certification level and focus your efforts where they matter most.
- Prioritize your compliance efforts. By narrowing your focus to contracts that have the most impact on your business, you’ll avoid unnecessary work and streamline your path to compliance.
Feeling overwhelmed? Don’t worry—we’ve created a comprehensive CMMC Guide to help you identify potential CUI or FCI (Federal Contract Information) in your contracts. It’s a great starting point to set you on the right path. You can find it here.
Understand How CUI Flows Through Your Organization
Once you’ve identified contracts involving CUI, the next step is understanding how that information moves within your organization. Here are some critical questions to ask:
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- How does CUI enter the organization? Is it coming through emails, secure file transfers, or another method?
- Who handles the CUI? Identify the individuals and roles responsible for accessing or managing this information.
- Where is CUI stored or transferred? Is it on cloud-based platforms, on-premises servers, or a mix of both?
- Do you create CUI? For some companies, you might be creating CUI in your manufacturing or design process.
- How is CUI shared externally? Do you work with subcontractors or third parties? If so, how is information securely transferred?
These questions can be tricky to answer, but they’re vital for mapping out your CUI flow.
Consider Future Opportunities and CUI Handling
Looking ahead, it’s important to think about how your future government contracts might involve CUI. Anticipating these needs now will save you headaches (and costs) down the road. Here’s what to consider:
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- Will new contracts require different CUI handling methods? Assess whether additional systems, processes, or employee training will be necessary.
- What types of CUI manipulation will be involved? Determine if future opportunities require creating, modifying, or analyzing CUI in new ways.
- How will your compliance plan adapt to growth? A forward-looking approach ensures your systems can handle evolving contract requirements without significant rework.
Prepare for Productive External Support
Having these internal discussions before seeking external help will make your compliance journey smoother and more efficient. But don’t stress if you’re unsure where to start. Help Desk Cavalry is ready to meet you wherever you are in the process. We’ll:
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- Help you identify your CUI landscape.
- Provide tailored advice and solutions.
- Guide you in implementing controls that align with your current and future needs.
Next Steps
We get it—CMMC 2.0 is complex, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. If you’re not sure where to start, reach out. Whether you need help determining the most cost effect path to certification, implementing the right security controls, or getting your compliance legs under you, Help Desk Cavalry has your back.
Ready to start your journey toward CMMC compliance?
Let’s chat about your business and create a plan that works for you. Schedule a FREE short consult with our team here: https://calendly.com/jeremy-hdcav