For any organization operating in the Department of Defense (DoD) supply chain, attaining the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) is a critical task. This certification, which was only introduced by the Office of the Undersecretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment (OUSD(A&S)) in 2019, is now a requirement for all DoD contractors. It verifies that they have adequate cybersecurity controls and processes in place to protect sensitive data.

Considering the importance of this certification, many organizations are opting to engage the services of a CMMC consultant. These are industry specialists, often with significant experience in IT security and compliance, who can guide organizations through the certification process. However, not all consultants are created equal. In order to find the one that best suits your needs, it is crucial to ask them the right questions.

• What is your experience with CMMC?

  This is a foundational question. While CMMC is relatively new, a consultant with comprehensive experience in cybersecurity, particularly in relation to DoD contracts or equivalent standards, would be better equipped to help your organization meet its requirements. If they have previously helped other businesses achieve CMMC certification, it is a significant advantage.

• How do you approach the CMMC process?

  A consultant must have a clear, structured approach to the certification process. They should be able to outline their methodologies, expected timelines, and how they intend to collaborate with your team. Their approach should be tailored to your organization's specific needs and context, rather than a one-size-fits-all strategy.

• How do you handle data classification?

  CMMC is all about protecting Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). A consultant should have a strong understanding of what constitutes CUI and how to handle it. They should be able to guide you in identifying, classifying, and protecting this data within your organization's systems.

• Can you assist with the development of a System Security Plan (SSP) and Plan of Action & Milestones (POA&M)?

  An SSP and POA&M are crucial in achieving CMMC. They outline your organization's current security measures and future plans for mitigating identified weaknesses. A skilled consultant should be able to assist in developing these documents, ensuring they meet the compliance requirements.

• How would you manage potential risks and gaps in our cybersecurity framework?

  A proficient CMMC consultant should not only identify potential gaps but also propose effective mitigation strategies. They must have a firm grasp on the risk management process, from assessment to implementation and monitoring of mitigation measures.

• What type of post-certification support do you provide?

  CMMC is not a one-and-done deal. It requires continuous monitoring and improvements to maintain compliance. It's advantageous if your consultant offers post-certification services, ensuring your organization remains compliant as CMMC requirements evolve.

• Can you provide references from past clients?

  Past performance is often a good indicator of future results. A reputable consultant should be able to provide references or testimonials from previous clients.

Choosing a CMMC consultant is not a trivial task. It requires a careful assessment of the consultant's capabilities, experience, and approach. As Game Theory suggests, a systematic approach to decision making, where each player's strategy and potential outcomes are considered, leads to optimal results.

The same theory applies here. By asking these questions, you are essentially playing out different scenarios to discern which consultant would best align with your organization's needs and objectives. So, take a strategic approach. Make your decision based on robust data and systemic assessment, and you're on the path towards a successful CMMC certification journey.

Remember, CMMC is not just a regulatory hoop to jump through. It's an opportunity to strengthen your cybersecurity posture and build a more resilient organization. With the right consultant, the journey to certification can be an enlightening and empowering process.