The SMB’s Survival Guide to CMMC 2.0
The first version of the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) was highly problematic for the Department of Defense (DoD) and the Defense Industrial Base (DIB). Its release in 2020 led to significant pushback. Critics argued the framework requirements were too complex, costly, and rigid to be widely implemented, particularly by small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). SMBs are the backbone of the defense industry, making up 70-80% of the DIB. Some fields, like defense manufacturing, are comprised almost entirely of small and medium manufacturers (SMMs). Losing these DIB members was unacceptable, so the DoD went back to the drawing board and came back with CMMC 2.0.
While CMMC 2.0 is a welcome improvement over CMMC 1.0, the CMMC landscape remains a challenge for many smaller businesses. CMMC non-compliance threatens a business’s survival, but its requirements may still feel impossible for many SMBs. Talk about being stuck between a rock and a hard place!
Why Is CMMC So Problematic for SMBs?
One of the biggest challenges of achieving CMMC compliance is its high costs. Implementing and maintaining cybersecurity measures to meet CMMC practices can be expensive. The expenses incurred during the certification process can include hiring cybersecurity experts, implementing cybersecurity measures, and obtaining third-party audits. Depending on the required maturity level, current compliance status, organizational complexity, systems architecture, project scope, and support needs, the costs associated with achieving and maintaining CMMC compliance can be a significant financial burden. CMMC related products and services can run businesses over six figures!
Time is also a major consideration. The time-consuming nature of the preparations, assessment, and certification process can be incredibly problematic. Organizations must conduct a thorough self-assessment and prepare documentation before the formal CMMC assessment for certification begins. Each step can take months, and any gaps in compliance must be addressed before certification can be granted. This means organizations must dedicate significant time and resources to the compliance process, which can interfere with day-to-day operations. Many businesses may run out of runway, either failing to meet CMMC requirements by the enforcement date (risking the loss of contracts) or running out of funds mid-way through the process.
Achieving CMMC compliance can also be challenging due to the complexities of the program. Achieving compliance with up to 110 controls is no simple feat. Some organizations have entire departments devoted to compliance, but small businesses may not have countless hours or in-house experts to put on the project.
What Should SMBs Do?
Trim the fat: invest in what you need and nothing more
Despite its reputation, CMMC doesn’t have to be incredibly complex. Suppose you’re an SMB relying on simple tools like email and files to manage Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). In that case, you don’t need to invest in security designed for organizations handling top-secret information across complex environments. Such solutions will be unnecessarily complicated and cost-prohibitive for you. Some solutions offer organizations the ability to pick and choose products rather than purchasing a large package. Look for options that give you an efficient way to protect the most valuable and sensitive aspect of your digital infrastructure: your data.
Take the road less traveled: work with a disruptor instead of the conventional solution
New and more straightforward solutions are available on the market. Invest in platform-agnostic solutions that can be deployed almost anywhere. This will enable your organization to keep its existing infrastructure while achieving compliance. This saves valuable resources: time and money.
Working with an ‘alternative’ provider means you will likely get a lower price and benefit from a team ready and willing to do whatever possible to make CMMC happen for you.
Embrace your inner Goldilocks: search the roads less traveled to find a solution ‘just right’ for you
Don’t assume that CMMC solutions are all alike. Not all CMMC solutions are made equal, and not all CMMC solutions will work for everyone. Remember, the DIB is diverse. While the months-long processes associated with conventional compliance solutions may make sense under certain circumstances, newer, more streamlined solutions are likely available for SMBs. In fact, many new solutions can integrate with your existing infrastructure, and some require only hours to deploy. Just because one provider costs six figures, requires months of lead time, or a ten-person team, doesn’t mean others will too. Don’t fall for a one-size-fits-all solution that doesn’t truly fit your needs.
The early bird gets the worm: embrace emerging opportunities
Spending on CMMC today might be painful, but it’s the wise choice. The assessment process will be much easier and shorter, for those who are already compliant. Achieving CMMC early can earn you a significant advantage because CMMC requirements will shrink the contract candidate pool. Those not ready when CMMC enforcement begins will lose out on opportunities. Beginning CMMC preparations late won’t reduce your costs, so why wait? While the number of CMMC certified organizations is small, those certified will have little competition. Such deals can help compensate for the costs of CMMC.
In conclusion, despite CMMC’s challenges, there are several strategies that SMBs can use to minimize the pains associated with it. CMMC will never be effortless, but by following the above advice, SMBs can transition without expending significant and unnecessary resources and ensure they are well-positioned for success in the DIB.
