How Long Does a Full Tech Modernization Usually Take?
When leaders consider modernizing their systems, one of the first questions they ask is, “How long will this take?” The answer isn’t the same for everyone. But there are predictable factors that determine the timeline. Understanding these variables can help you set realistic expectations, manage budgets, and avoid project fatigue. Step 1: Define the Scope […]
How to Modernize While Keeping Operations Running
One of the biggest fears leaders have about modernization is downtime. Upgrading systems, replacing infrastructure, and shifting to new platforms all sound good until you think about missed deadlines, idle teams, and service interruptions. The good news is you don’t have to choose between progress and productivity. With the right approach, you can modernize your […]
How to Decide Which Legacy Systems to Modernize First
Modernizing your tech stack isn’t about replacing everything at once. If you try, you’ll run into budget overruns, staff burnout, and operational downtime. The real challenge is knowing which systems to tackle first to get the most significant impact on your investment. At Black Rock, we’ve helped defense contractors, tech firms, and government suppliers modernize […]
How to Build a Tech Modernization Roadmap Without Blowing Your Budget
The Problem Most Teams Face Modernizing your technology sounds exciting until you see the first quote. You know you need to upgrade outdated systems, improve security, and prepare for the following contract requirement, but the dollar signs can quickly overshadow the benefits. The truth? Most organizations overspend on modernization because they lack a clear roadmap. […]
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Don’t Wait for the Audit: Fix Cybersecurity Gaps Before They Cost You
You’re alone if you’ve ever scrambled to prepare for a cybersecurity audit or a review. Many organizations wait until they’re under the gun before trying to close gaps, finalize documentation, or respond to compliance requirements. And in most cases, it does not end well. Whether you’re working toward CMMC, NIST 800-171, ISO 27001, or a […]
Can Our IT Team Handle Compliance Alone? Here’s What Most Teams Miss
When compliance requirements start showing up in contracts, whether it’s CMMC, NIST 800-171, HIPAA, or ISO 27001, it’s common for leadership to turn to the internal IT team and ask: “Can you handle this?” Sometimes the answer is yes. But more often, it’s yes… sort of. Followed by months of confusion, false starts, and missed […]
Do We Need a Third-Party Cybersecurity Partner?
If you’re like most growing companies, especially in the defense or tech sectors, you’ve probably asked this question at some point: “Do we need to bring in a third-party cybersecurity partner? Or can we handle this ourselves?” It’s a fair question. After all, cybersecurity isn’t new. You likely already have IT support, some security tools, […]
How Black Rock Streamlines Compliance for Emerging Defense Contractors
Winning a defense contract is a big achievement. However, keeping it, or going after more, means dealing with the complex world of federal cybersecurity compliance. For emerging contractors, the process can feel overwhelming. You’re trying to grow your business, meet tight deadlines, and now you’re expected to implement frameworks like NIST SP 800-171, CMMC, and […]
Understanding the ATO (Authority to Operate) Process from Start to Finish
If you want to deploy a system in a federal environment or deliver software to a U.S. government agency, you need more than technical features or compliance paperwork. You need an Authority to Operate (ATO). Getting an ATO is one of the most critical and often misunderstood parts of working with the federal government. It’s […]