For defense contractors and regulated tech companies, modernization is never just a technical project, it’s also a compliance project.
If compliance isn’t built into the plan from the start, you risk expensive rework, missed deadlines, and even lost contracts.
Step 1: Map Requirements Before You Begin
Every modernization effort should start with a precise mapping of relevant compliance frameworks.
For most defense-sector organizations, this includes:
- CMMC (Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification)
- NIST SP 800-171
- ISO 27001
- Any contract-specific DFARS clauses
By listing the requirements upfront, you can ensure that every modernization activity moves you closer to, not further from compliance.
Step 2: Involve Compliance Early
Many organizations wait until the testing or audit stage to involve compliance officers.
This is a mistake that leads to late-stage discoveries and delays.
Best practice: Include compliance personnel in the initial project planning and design meetings so they can flag requirements as systems and processes are being built.
Step 3: Build Controls Into the Technology
Compliance controls should be designed into systems, rather than being bolted on after the fact. Examples include:
- Automatic log collection and retention features
- Multi-factor authentication (MFA) enforcement
- Access control tied to role-based permissions
- Encrypted backups and secure storage
By integrating these from the start, you reduce manual oversight and improve audit readiness.
Step 4: Document as You Go
Modernization and compliance share a common weakness: documentation often happens too late.
Keep compliance documentation updated in real time as systems are implemented, including:
- System Security Plans (SSPs)
- Plans of Action and Milestones (POA&Ms)
- Configuration baselines
Step 5: Test for Compliance, Not Just Functionality
Technical testing ensures systems work, but compliance testing ensures they meet regulatory requirements.
Run validation checks for:
- Access restrictions
- Encryption standards
- Patch management
- Incident response readiness
Step 6: Use Compliance as a Funding Justification
In regulated industries, compliance alignment isn’t just a requirement it’s a compelling reason for leadership to approve modernization budgets.
When you show that modernization also protects contracts and reduces regulatory risk, it becomes a business imperative.
Why This Matters
Compliance should never be an afterthought in modernization.
When aligned from day one, it accelerates project timelines, reduces audit risk, and eliminates costly rework.
Take the First Step
Our Tech Modernization Checklist includes a built-in compliance alignment section, allowing you to modernize with confidence while meeting all regulatory requirements.
Download the checklist now and ensure your next upgrade is both modern and compliant from day one.