Cutting Edge Communications

When CMMC compliance requirements took effect for defense contractors, Cutting Edge Communications faced the challenge of securing controlled unclassified information while maintaining operational flexibility. Engineers frequently work in client environments, and the organization handles minimal CUI, mostly consisting of archived materials.

Initially, company leadership believed CMMC compliance could be achieved in-house utilizing a vendor offering a compliance tool. However, early attempts with the compliance vendor revealed significant challenges. The enterprise-level policies and tools offered by the initial vendor created a mismatch with Cutting Edge’s actual needs, which centered around securing a small amount of CUI rather than overhauling entire enterprise systems.

The company needed a solution that could provide both cybersecurity implementation and compliance guidance in a single, cohesive package rather than fragmented services that would require coordination across multiple vendors.

Cutting Edge Communications evaluated multiple CMMC solution providers, focusing on end-to-end service, clarity in offerings, and compliance support beyond just IT security implementation. The evaluation process emphasized finding a provider that could offer flexibility in pacing and a straightforward approach to certification.

CyberSheath stood out through its comprehensive methodology that addressed both technical security requirements and compliance processes simultaneously. This dual approach meant implementation streams could overlap, accelerating progress toward certification rather than handling security and compliance as separate, sequential phases.

The collaborative process included a detailed assessment of Cutting Edge’s use cases, particularly understanding how CUI flowed through operations where engineers work in various client environments. CyberSheath’s expertise filled gaps in the internal team's IT security knowledge while providing hands-on support throughout implementation.

CyberSheath implemented a Federal Enclave solution that precisely matched Cutting Edge's operational requirements. The enclave approach proved ideal for an organization handling minimal CUI, providing a secure workspace for sensitive information without requiring enterprise-wide security overhauls.

The integrated approach to security and compliance eliminated the coordination challenges that had complicated the company’s initial vendor experience. The responsive, hands-on support provided expertise where the internal team needed guidance while maintaining flexibility to adjust pacing as project demands required.