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In a recent webinar, NeoSystems and Deltek unveiled a strategy to help government contractors, compliance officers, and IT professionals achieve Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) swiftly and with minimal risk. Here’s a synthesis of the critical points discussed, offering valuable guidance on how to navigate the complexities of CMMC. 

The Importance of CMMC 

The necessity for CMMC stems from escalating cyber threats targeting government contractors. Stuart Itkin, Senior Vice President at NeoSystems, emphasized the urgency for robust cybersecurity measures through incidents like the theft of intellectual property related to the Lockheed F-35 strike fighter and the Sea Dragon project. These examples underscore the importance of stringent cybersecurity protocols to safeguard sensitive information and uphold national security. 

Understanding CMMC 

CMMC is a framework designed to enforce cybersecurity standards across the defense industrial base. It comprises three distinct levels: 

• Level 1: Basic cyber hygiene encompassing 17 controls. 
• Level 2: Intermediate cyber hygiene featuring 110 controls. 
• Level 3: Advanced/progressive measures including additional controls for highly sensitive information. 

By adopting these levels, organizations can systematically enhance their cybersecurity posture, ensuring they meet the stringent requirements necessary to protect critical assets. 

In-Depth Look at What’s In Scope 

The scope of CMMC requirements extends beyond IT systems to encompass personnel, facilities, and external service providers. Organizations must ensure that all facets of their operations handling Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) are compliant and secure. This comprehensive approach highlights the need for robust security practices across various domains. 

Understanding External Service Provider Requirements 

External service providers, such as managed service providers (MSPs) and cloud service providers (CSPs), play a pivotal role in achieving CMMC compliance. These providers need to meet the same security standards as the organizations they support. For instance, if a contractor requires Level 2 compliance, their MSP must also be certified at Level 2. This ensures consistency and reliability in maintaining security throughout the supply chain. 

Costpoint GCCM: Compliance-Focused SaaS ERP 

Deltek’s Costpoint GovCon Cloud Moderate (GCCM) solution offers a secure, compliant environment for managing sensitive information. Extending the security perimeter of AWS GovCloud, this platform provides additional controls and alleviates the compliance burden on contractors. It is particularly suited for organizations handling International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) data and other critical information. 

Building a Compliant, Secure Work Environment 

Creating a secure work environment is imperative for CMMC compliance and involves several key steps: 

• Implementing Technical Requirements from NIST 800-171: Ensuring all technical standards are in place. 
• Establishing Policies and Procedures: Developing robust policies to manage IT systems, personnel, and facilities. 

• Employee Training: Ensuring all employees are well-versed in security protocols and practices. 
• Regular Review and Updates: Continuously reviewing and updating security measures to maintain compliance. 

An Accelerated, Low-Risk Compliance Approach to CMMC Readiness 

NeoSystems and Deltek have collaborated to offer a combined solution that accelerates the path to CMMC compliance with reduced risk. By leveraging managed services and secure cloud solutions, organizations can achieve compliance more efficiently. This allows contractors to focus on their core business operations while ensuring they meet all necessary security standards. 

Elevating Your Compliance Strategy 

Achieving CMMC compliance is crucial for government contractors to protect sensitive data and secure their operations. NeoSystems and Deltek provide a comprehensive, low-risk approach to compliance readiness, making the path to certification more accessible. 

• Watch and Learn: Access our on-demand webinar and download the presentation to gain insights into compliance strategies. 
• Get Started: Download the “ABCs of CMMC” ebook to begin your journey towards CMMC compliance. 
• Explore Solutions: Learn more about our CMMC solution offerings tailored to meet your needs. 
• Request a Consultation: Contact our team to request a personalized consultation for our CMMC services. 

View the full webinar recording for more details on this important topic. And stay ahead of cybersecurity challenges and ensure your organization meets the highest standards of compliance with NeoSystems and Deltek’s expert guidance.