1. How can we get started with a CMMC readiness consultant?

Ask for a proposal that specifies these deliverables:

  • Scope determination: identify the systems, users, locations, service providers, and Federal Contract Information (FCI) / Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) flows included in the assessment.
  • Evidence-based gap analysis: review implemented controls and supporting evidence—not merely a completed questionnaire.
  • Remediation roadmap: list gaps, priorities, responsible parties, and which fixes the consultant will actually implement.
  • Documentation: identify the policies and procedures needed and, for Level 2, review or develop the System Security Plan (SSP).
  • Final readiness review: walk through the applicable assessment objectives and identify remaining unsupported claims.
  • Reporting support: explain the applicable assessment-result reporting and SPRS affirmation steps, including which actions your organization and its designated Affirming Official must complete.

Make the distinction between advice, document production, and hands-on technical work explicit in the statement of work.

References: CMMC Level 2 Assessment Guide and SPRS Awardee/Contractor User Guide.

2. How can we reduce unnecessary CMMC preparation costs without leaving important gaps?

Start by confirming the requirements applicable to your contracts and the systems, people, and service providers that belong within the assessment scope. Scope decisions should reflect actual information flows and the applicable guidance.

Next, evaluate what is already implemented and what evidence supports it. Existing safeguards, procedures, and records may provide a useful foundation. Identify where they satisfy requirements, where they need improvement, and where additional work is necessary.

Build a coordinated remediation plan before making major purchases. Assign ownership, sequence dependencies, and define the evidence needed to demonstrate completion. Evaluate the ongoing cost of operating the solution as well as the initial implementation expense.

An appropriately designed environment can reduce the number of systems that handle sensitive information and the associated preparation and operating costs. Assessment boundaries must remain consistent with applicable scoping guidance and be supported by the architecture and operating practices.

Altiri’s methodology is designed to lower overall preparation and implementation costs through accurate scoping, reuse of effective existing controls, and coordinated remediation. Savings depend on the organization’s starting point and requirements.

Reference: Official CMMC scoping and assessment resources.

3. What experience and credentials should we look for in a CMMC consultant?

Look for relevant credentials together with evidence of practical work on organizations resembling yours. Ask how the consultant has approached scoping, evaluated implementation, developed remediation plans, and helped teams assemble evidence.

A useful selection conversation should address:

  • Experience with your type of environment and information.
  • How findings will be translated into assigned implementation work.
  • How existing technology and service providers will be evaluated.
  • Who will maintain the documentation and evidence.
  • Which activities are included, and which require other specialists or an authorized assessment provider.

Clarify the distinction between readiness support and the assessment required for your applicable CMMC status. A consulting credential should not be treated as authority to issue certification.

Patrick Parker is a CMMC Registered Practitioner. His experience includes CMMC readiness assessments and remediation planning for several midsize defense contractors and a division of a major university. Altiri’s role is to help clients understand their gaps, organize preparation, and carry out agreed readiness activities.

Credential reference: Patrick Parker’s Cyber AB Marketplace listing.