How to Choose the Right Consultant or MSP for Your CMMC Journey
Introduction
Achieving CMMC (Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification) compliance is no small feat. It requires thorough preparation, detailed documentation, and technical expertise. For many businesses, partnering with the right consultant or Managed Service Provider (MSP) is the key to streamlining the journey.
But how do you separate the experts from the pretenders in this crowded field? In this blog, we’ll outline the essential factors to consider when choosing a consultant or MSP, share the critical questions you need to ask, and provide actionable tips to ensure you find a partner who aligns with your compliance goals.
Why Choosing the Right Partner Matters
Partnering with an inexperienced or unqualified provider can result in:
- Increased Costs: Hidden fees, unnecessary services, or failed assessments.
- Wasted Time: Delays caused by poor guidance or disorganized processes.
- Compliance Failure: Incomplete preparation or failure to meet assessment thresholds.
Selecting a knowledgeable and reliable partner can save you time, money, and frustration, ensuring your organization achieves compliance efficiently.
Why Choosing the Right Partner Matters
Partnering with an inexperienced or unqualified provider can result in:
- Increased Costs: Hidden fees, unnecessary services, or failed assessments.
- Wasted Time: Delays caused by poor guidance or disorganized processes.
- Compliance Failure: Incomplete preparation or failure to meet assessment thresholds.
Selecting a knowledgeable and reliable partner can save you time, money, and frustration, ensuring your organization achieves compliance efficiently.
Key Factors to Evaluate When Choosing a Consultant or MSP
1. Certifications and Training
The DoD has strict guidelines for CMMC assessors and consultants. Ensure your potential partner has completed the necessary certifications through Cyber AB.
Certification | What It Means |
Certified CMMC Professional (CCP) | Understands CMMC requirements and can guide organizations. |
Certified CMMC Assessor (CCA) | Qualified to perform official assessments. |
2. Relevant Experience
A consultant’s track record speaks volumes. Look for evidence of successful engagements with businesses similar to yours.
Ask for:
- Case studies.
- References from past clients.
- Examples of working with businesses in your industry.
3. Transparency in Deliverables
Understand exactly what the provider will do for you. Will they take you to “audit-ready” status or stop short of the official assessment?
Deliverable | What to Expect |
Gap Analysis | Identifies areas of non-compliance. |
Mock Assessment | Prepares your team for the real audit. |
Turnkey Compliance | End-to-end support to achieve certification. |
4. Cost Structure
Be wary of vague pricing models. A trustworthy provider will offer a clear breakdown of costs based on assessment scope, size, and complexity.
Typical Pricing Tiers:
- Small Scope: $40,000–$55,000
- Medium Scope: $55,000–$75,000
- Large Scope: $100,000+
5. Use of Tools and Technology
Does the provider leverage tools like GRC platforms to streamline compliance? The right tools can save time and reduce errors.
6. Reputation in the Industry
A quick check of reviews, testimonials, or industry awards can help you gauge a consultant’s credibility.
Top Questions to Ask a Potential Consultant or MSP
1.Certifications:
a. “Are you certified by Cyber AB as a CCP or CCA?”
2. Experience:
a. “Have you worked with businesses of our size and in our industry?”
b. “Can you provide references or case studies?”
3. Deliverables:
a. “What services are included in your offering?”
b. “Will you conduct a mock assessment to prepare us for the official audit?”
4. Tools:
a. “Do you use GRC tools to manage compliance documentation?”
b. “How do you help streamline evidence collection?”
5. Cost:
a. “How do you calculate your pricing?”
b. “Are there any other hidden charges we should be aware of?”
Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Consultant or MSP
1. Choosing Based Solely on Price
a. A lower price may mean a lack of experience or incomplete services.
2. Skipping the Background Check
a. Ensure the provider has relevant certifications and industry recognition.
3. Ignoring Technology Capabilities
a. Providers without tools like GRC platforms may struggle with documentation organization.
4. Not Clarifying Deliverables
a. Understand what’s included in the service package before signing a contract.
Example: Choosing the Right Partner
Scenario:
A small aerospace contractor, Company B, needed CMMC Level 2 compliance. They evaluated two consultants:
Criteria | Consultant A | Consultant B |
Certifications | CCP-certified | No CMMC certifications |
Experience | 10+ years with DoD contractors | 2 years, limited CMMC experience |
Deliverables | Includes mock assessments and turnkey compliance | Basic guidance, no mock assessments |
Tools | Uses advanced GRC platform | Manual documentation processes |
Cost | $55,000 | $45,000 |
Result:
Company B chose Consultant A despite the higher price due to their expertise, certifications, and use of technology. They achieved compliance within 8 weeks.
Checklist: How to Evaluate and Choose the Right Partner
Use this checklist to simplify your decision-making process:
Criteria | Yes | No |
Certified by Cyber AB? |
|
|
Relevant experience with similar businesses? |
|
|
Transparent pricing and deliverables? |
|
|
Provides mock assessments? |
|
|
Uses tools like GRC for efficiency? |
|
|
Offers references or case studies? |
|
|
Conclusion: Partnering for CMMC Success
Choosing the right consultant or MSP can make or break your CMMC journey. By focusing on certifications, experience, deliverables, and cost transparency, you can ensure a smooth, efficient path to compliance.
Ready to find out how the right tools and expert guidance can simplify your compliance process?
📅 Book Your Free Demo of our Compliance Assessment Tool today and let us help you achieve CMMC success!