Since the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) got introduced in 2020, there has been quite a buzz around such security standards and maturity models. However, many are still unclear about CMMC training and how it differs from earlier standards, particularly the Capability Maturity Model Integration (CMMI).
So in this article, we will explain what these standards mean and highlight the difference between CMMI Training and CMMC Training.
What are standards and maturity models?
In cybersecurity, standards and maturity models refer to frameworks that organizations can use to evaluate their cybersecurity capabilities and improve their security posture. Essentially, they are checklists that provide a path towards enhancing security and enable organizations to periodically assess where they are along that path.
So both CMMI and CMMC are cybersecurity standards that act as valuable tools for improving cybersecurity efforts. And training for these standards or models refers to programs designed to help understand and implement these frameworks. Meaning, they provide individuals and organizations with the knowledge and skills required to assess existing cybersecurity capabilities, pinpoint areas for development, and implement best practices into action to strengthen their security posture.
However, one thing to note here is that organizations should not aim to build their cybersecurity systems on the sole basis of these models. This is because organizations can be unique in their requirements and can require capabilities specific to their needs. Hence, organizations should build security systems that meet the standards of models such as CMMI and CMMC but also cater to their specific requirements.
Understanding CMMI training
CMMI is a process improvement approach that provides guidance on best practices for organizational processes. It was originally introduced by the Software Engineering Institute (SEI) in the early 1990s but has since undergone further development and has been updated. CMMI can assess and improve an organization’s software development, acquisition and maintenance processes.
Key features of CMMI training
- Process Improvement: CMMI training guides organizations in identifying process gaps, defining improvement goals, and implementing best practices. It enables companies to standardize their processes and achieve higher levels of maturity.
- Five Maturity Levels: CMMI categorizes organizations into five maturity levels, ranging from Initial to Optimizing. Each level represents a higher degree of process maturity and signifies the organization’s ability to consistently deliver quality results.
- Focus on Process Areas: CMMI training emphasizes specific process areas, such as project management, requirements management, and quality assurance. By addressing these areas, organizations can enhance their overall operational efficiency.
- Continuous Improvement: CMMI promotes a culture of continuous improvement by encouraging organizations to monitor and measure their processes, identify bottlenecks, and implement corrective actions.
What is CMMC training?
CMMC is a new cybersecurity certification program developed by the Department of Defense (DoD) to improve the security of its contractors and suppliers. It builds on the existing CMMI framework and adds specific cybersecurity requirements. Organizations seeking to do business with the DoD will need to obtain a CMMC certification at one of three CMMC levels, depending on the sensitivity of the information they will be handling.
Key features of CMMC training
- Cybersecurity Certification: CMMC training aims to certify organizations’ cybersecurity practices based on their ability to safeguard sensitive data. It assesses the organization’s security posture and assigns a maturity level, ranging from Level 1 (Basic Cyber Hygiene) to Level 5 (Advanced/Progressive).
- Compliance with DFARS: CMMC training is particularly relevant to organizations working with the U.S. DoD as it aligns with the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS). To bid on DoD contracts, organizations must achieve the appropriate CMMC level.
- Emphasis on Security Domains: CMMC training addresses seventeen security domains, including access control, incident response, system and information integrity, and risk management. It ensures organizations have robust security measures in place across these domains.
- Third-Party Auditing: CMMC certification requires organizations to undergo third-party audits conducted by accredited and independent assessors. These audits validate the organization’s compliance with the prescribed security controls.
The differences between CMMI and CMMC
So as you can see, while CMMI and CMMC both aim to enhance organizational capabilities, they differ significantly in their objectives and areas of focus. CMMI primarily concentrates on process improvement, optimizing operational efficiency, and ensuring high-quality outputs. On the other hand, CMMC focuses exclusively on certifying an organization’s cybersecurity practices, aligning with the specific requirements of the U.S. DoD and the defense industrial base. Moreover, CMMI has largely been replaced by CMMC for DoD contracting.
Notably, it is worth bearing in mind that cybersecurity requirements are constantly changing. So in just the next year, we might have new standards altogether.
Why are CMMC training and CMMI training necessary?
Both CMMC and CMMI training offers valuable benefits and are important for organizations seeking to improve their practices and meet specific requirements.
CMMC training is crucial for organizations operating in the defense sector or those working with the United States Department of Defense. This is because achieving CMMC certification is becoming a mandatory requirement for defense contractors and suppliers, without which they cannot bid for contracts. So CMMC training provides the necessary knowledge and skills required to achieve compliance and consequently implement better cybersecurity practices.
CMMI training, on the other hand, is beneficial for organizations across various industries seeking to enhance their software development and project management practices. Implementing the CMMI framework enables organizations to establish standardized processes, improve product quality, increase efficiency, and better manage projects. And CMMI training equips individuals and organizations with the knowledge and skills required to drive process improvement initiatives to enhance organizational capabilities.
CMMC training or CMMI training – Which is the better choice?
CMMI and CMMC compliance are both important for businesses that handle sensitive data. However, the choice between CMMI training and CMMC training depends on your organization’s specific needs and objectives. If your primary goal is to optimize your processes and improve overall operational efficiency, CMMI training can provide a comprehensive framework. On the other hand, if you operate in the defense sector or work with the U.S. DoD, CMMC training becomes essential to ensure compliance and bid on relevant contracts.
Moreover, organizations can also adopt both CMMI and CMMC models as an iterative process. As CMMI may be required to compete for many government contracts today, CMMC will be required by the Department of Defense for all DoD Contractors to compete for contracts.
Is it necessary to get CMMC training if you have CMMI training?
Having CMMI training does not automatically fulfill the requirements for CMMC certification. While CMMI training enhances organizational processes and capabilities, CMMC training focuses specifically on cybersecurity practices and requirements outlined in the CMMC framework. To obtain CMMC certification, organizations must demonstrate their adherence to the specific cybersecurity requirements, which may not be fully covered by CMMI training alone. Therefore, if an organization intends to work with the DoD or defense contractors, obtaining CMMC training in addition to CMMI training is necessary to meet the cybersecurity requirements and achieve CMMC certification.
How to achieve CMMI and CMMC compliance?
To achieve compliance with any of these models, a comprehensive commitment to security throughout the organization is necessary. It is crucial to begin from the top and gradually involve everyone, ensuring their understanding of their responsibility in safeguarding data, and providing them with supportive solutions.
The general steps to follow are given below:
- Evaluate your organization’s strengths and weaknesses through a self-assessment.
- Devise a plan to address any security gaps identified.
- Implement suitable solutions and processes that align with the required standards or models.
- Test and validate the effectiveness of your implemented solutions.
- Continuously maintain your security standards over time.
The specific actions required will depend on the particular standard or model you aim to comply with. Nevertheless, the general approach remains consistent. Start with a self-assessment, address gaps, and proactively implement solutions to maintain compliance in the future.
How can Agency help in achieving better compliance and operational efficiency
Many organizations grow their cybersecurity systems gradually and lack the knowledge and resources to undergo a complete security overhaul. But that’s where expert agencies can assist.
Agency possesses extensive certifications and compliance in cybersecurity and the development of best practices and frameworks. Their expertise extends to various cybersecurity frameworks such as NIST 800-53, A&A, EDM, CMMC, CMMI, and more. Through the established and methodical evaluations, training, and assessments, they employ industry-standard methods that continuously enhance cybersecurity and overall organizational proficiency.
These enable them to assist the clients in recognizing, acquiring, and preserving their organizational processes, resulting in increased business efficiency and the safeguarding of sensitive information!
