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 You know you need to upgrade outdated systems, improve security, and prepare for the following contract requirement, but the dollar signs can quickly overshadow the benefits.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. […]
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 […]
What Is Cyber On-Demand, and How Can It Save You Time and Budget?
Most businesses today understand they need cybersecurity. But many don’t realize how you structure your cybersecurity support, which can be as important as the tools or frameworks you follow. That’s where Cyber On-Demand comes in. Whether you’re a government contractor, a mid-sized tech firm, or a growing business with compliance requirements, Cyber On-Demand offers a […]
In-House vs. Outsourced Cybersecurity: Which Is Right for You?
As cyber threats evolve and compliance requirements tighten, businesses are being forced to ask a tricky question: Should we build an in-house cybersecurity team or bring in outside experts? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The right choice depends on your budget, risk profile, internal capacity, and long-term goals. In this article, we’ll compare in-house and outsourced […]
What Happens If You Don’t Meet NIST 800-171 Requirements?
If you’re a defense contractor or part of the federal supply chain, you’ve likely heard about NIST SP 800-171. Maybe you’ve even started implementing controls or conducted a self-assessment. But here’s the hard truth: there are real consequences if you’re not fully compliant. Some of which can put your business at risk. This article explains […]
Are Your Vendors Putting You at Risk? The Supply Chain Threat No One Talks About
Your cybersecurity strategy might be solid. You’ve invested in firewalls, endpoint protection, multi-factor authentication, and user training. But if you’re like most organizations, there’s still a major vulnerability lurking in your system, which isn’t even in your system. It’s your vendor. This article explores the most overlooked risk in supply chain cybersecurity, why it’s so […]