Author: Jay Martin
In the world of life sciences, cutting-edge technology is essential. But with advanced technology comes the responsibility of protecting sensitive data. If your organization relies on U.S. government funding, achieving Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) Level 1 compliance is critical. Kalleid can help. As experts in IT policy development for life sciences, Kalleid ensures that organizations are well-prepared to navigate compliance requirements, particularly those companies relying on U.S. government funding and must demonstrate compliance with Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) Level 1 controls. Kalleid has successfully helped life sciences organizations meet these controls by delivering tailored IT policies that align with industry standards and regulatory requirements.
Why CMMC Level 1 Matters
CMMC Level 1 focuses on safeguarding Federal Contract Information (FCI). This involves implementing 15 basic security controls outlined in the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR 52.204-21). These controls, based on the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) framework, are your foundation for robust cybersecurity.
Understanding Level 1 IT Policy
- Life sciences organizations should identify the subset of controls applicable to basic safeguarding, as defined in the US Government Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 52.204-21. These 15 controls define CMMC Level 1 IT policy for the basic safeguarding of Federal Contract Information (FCI).
- The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) framework provides the backbone for IT policy compliance. NIST offers practical guidance on following the controls listed in FAR 52.204-21. NIST Security and Privacy Controls for Information Systems and Organizations (Special Publication 800-53) is a comprehensive catalog of controls for federal systems, which includes the FAR controls. NIST SP 800-171 also provides guidance on the FAR controls but is more focused on protecting Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) on non-federal systems.
Kalleid’s Proven Framework for IT Policy Development
Kalleid offers a systematic and human-centered approach to IT policy implementation that ensures compliance, minimizes organizational disruption, and supports sustainable business growth. Our services include:
1. Identification of CMMC Level 1 Controls
Kalleid works with clients to:
- Identify the specific IT controls required under FAR 52.204-21.
- Map these controls to NIST SP 800-53 Rev. 5 standards.
- Ensure policies reference current and relevant NIST controls.
2. Resource Allocation
Successful IT policy implementation requires careful resource planning. Kalleid helps:
- Identify project leadership, including a project manager, subject matter experts (SMEs), and the Information Security Officer. Kalleid supplies the technical writer.
- Develop a realistic project timeline, typically ranging from 6 to 12 months, depending on complexity and resource availability.
3. Policy and Procedure Development
Kalleid employs a proven methodology for building IT policies tailored to the unique needs of life sciences organizations. By leveraging deep expertise in scientific IT solutions, we:
- Inventory documents: To identify existing IT policies and gaps.
- Write IT policy documents: To define organizational IT policy that is aligned with CMMC Level 1 controls. Policies outline what to do to meet IT controls.
- Write procedures: To develop standard operating procedures (SOPs) that strictly correspond to the written IT policies. These SOPs describe how to implement the policies step by step.
- Collaborate and review documents: To conduct regular writing sessions with SMEs for drafting and revising policies and SOPs. All work undergoes Quality Assurance (QA) reviews to ensure completeness and accuracy.
- Provide follow-up support: To assist the organization with self-reporting their IT policy via a platform like the Supplier Performance Risk System (SPRS) within the Procurement Integrated Enterprise Environment (PIEE).
Building Resiliency Through IT Policy
Kalleid empowers life sciences organizations by helping them implement NIST-defined controls for meeting CMMC Level 1 IT policy compliance. By reducing cybersecurity risk, Kalleid builds organizational resilience.
Contact us today to learn how we can guide your organization through IT policy compliance through NIST-aligned cybersecurity implementation.
