As the world increasingly goes digital, data security has become a top priority for businesses of all sizes. The U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) is no exception, and has been working to implement the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) program across its supply chain.
The CMMC program is designed to ensure that all contractors who do business with the DoD are adhering to proper security protocols. In order to be eligible for certain contracts, businesses must meet certain CMMC levels, which range from basic cybersecurity hygiene to more advanced practices.
The program is still in its early stages, but it is already clear that compliance with CMMC will be essential for doing business with the DoD in the future. As we move into 2021 and beyond, the CMMC compliance landscape will continue to evolve. Here are a few key areas to watch in the coming year:
1. The CMMC program will continue to roll out across the DoD supply chain.
The rollout of the CMMC program has already begun, but it will take several years to fully implement. In the meantime, the DoD has been working to educate businesses about the program and what it will entail.
2. More businesses will need to achieve higher levels of CMMC certification.
As the program rolls out, more businesses will be required to achieve higher levels of CMMC certification in order to do business with the DoD. This will likely include small businesses, which make up a large portion of the DoD’s supply chain.
3. The DoD will continue to refine the CMMC program.
The CMMC program is still in its early stages, and the DoD is still working to refine it. As more businesses begin to implement CMMC, the DoD will continue to make adjustments as necessary.
4. The private sector will play a larger role in CMMC compliance.
The private sector will increasingly play a role in CMMC compliance as the program rolls out. This includes helping businesses to understand and implement CMMC requirements.
5. International partners will begin adopting CMMC-based standards.
As the CMMC program becomes more established, international partners will begin to adopt CMMC-based standards. This will ensure that businesses who work with the DoD are also meeting international security standards.
Failure to comply with CMMC requirements could result in businesses being ineligible for certain DoD contracts. In order to avoid this, businesses should make sure to stay up-to-date on the latest CMMC developments and requirements. By doing so, they can ensure that they are able to continue doing business with the DoD in the future.