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In the Department of Defense (DoD) contracting world, developing and maintaining security policies that comply with National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) standards represents a regulatory requirement and a business imperative. For companies throughout the DoD supply chain, these policies reflect their commitment to protecting sensitive data like Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). Having compliant policies also directly influences a company’s security assessment score calculated against the 110 controls identified in NIST Special Publication 800-171, which must be recorded on the DoD’s Supplier Performance Risk System (SPRS) and has become more crucial than ever. 

The DoD has emphasized the importance and accuracy of this score. A robust SPRS score signifies a contractor’s diligence and reliability in safeguarding sensitive information, thus becoming a competitive differentiator and key determinant in evaluating bids and awarding contracts. Furthermore, the impending implementation of the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification framework (CMMC) underscores the importance of these compliance efforts. CMMC will require independent assessments of NIST SP 800-171 compliance for the vast majority of Defense Industrial Base (DIB) organizations seeking CMMC Maturity Level 2 accreditation, making the accuracy and integrity of NIST-compliant policies and the resulting SPRS scores even more significant. 

For DoD contractors, developing, implementing, and continuously updating NIST-compliant policies is not merely about adhering to standards; it’s about showcasing their capability to responsibly handle sensitive information that impacts national security. This commitment is reflected in their SPRS score, acting as a barometer of their cybersecurity maturity and readiness. In the competitive landscape of DoD contracting, a strong focus on crafting and maintaining effective NIST-compliant policies is essential for operational success, business growth, and building a reputation as a trusted and secure partner in the defense supply chain. 

Exostar’s PolicyPro aids DIB organizations in achieving those objectives. A community of over 1000 relies on this product to guide them through these evolving NIST-compliant policy complexities with unparalleled ease and proficiency.  

NIST Compliance: Your Gateway to CMMC Readiness  

Exostar PolicyPro simplifies creating, reviewing, updating, and maintaining NIST SP 800-171 compliant policies and propels organizations on their journeys to CMMC readiness. As the latest version of NIST SP 800-171, Revision 3 (R3), advances, Exostar PolicyPro’s adaptable and forward-thinking features, powered by artificial intelligence (AI), will help ensure your organization stays compliant and a pacesetter in cybersecurity excellence as the security requirements landscape continues to change.  

Continuous Compliance: A Journey, Not a Destination  

In the dynamic world of cybersecurity, compliance must be an ongoing endeavor, not a check-the-box moment in time. Exostar PolicyPro is designed to be your steadfast companion, facilitating adaptation to ever-evolving threats and regulatory responses. Through regular product upgrades, comprehensive templates, and policy evaluations by its AI engine, Exostar PolicyPro ensures that your organization meets current standards and is equipped for tomorrow’s challenges. Adopting Exostar PolicyPro transcends regulatory compliance, marking a strategic decision for sustained business growth and resilience in the defense sector. It’s an opportunity to enhance cybersecurity policies and practices, foster innovation, and secure a competitive advantage in a highly demanding industry.  

Proactivity in Cybersecurity Compliance  

The call to action for businesses in the defense sector is clear: being proactive when it comes to NIST SP 800-171 and CMMC compliance is no longer just beneficial but imperative. Exostar PolicyPro offers the essential tools, resources, and community support to navigate this complex landscape confidently.  

Are you ready to elevate your organization’s cybersecurity compliance with the policies mandated by NIST SP 800-171? If so, join the Exostar PolicyPro community today.   

Embracing Exostar PolicyPro is not just about meeting a set of standards; it’s about joining a movement redefining success in defense contracting. Be a part of this transformative journey. Contact us today and embark on a journey toward operational excellence and strategic growth.