CMMC Audits: What Assessors Are Really Looking For
This week, in another powerful episode of CybHer, host Kaleigh Floyd sits down with Jil Wright, president and founder of Wrightbrained Security, to dive into the complex world of CMMC audits. With over 25 years of experience in the field of IT and cybersecurity, Jil brings a wealth of knowledge-and a refreshing perspective-to the conversation.
The Critical Role of Proper Documentation
From the assessor’s standpoint, CMMC is about far more than checking boxes. It’s about understanding whether or not a company is truly living its cybersecurity policies and procedures, not just writing them down. Jil explains that one of the most common issues she encounters is a lack of sufficient evidence to back up what organizations say they are doing.
Proper documentation isn’t about copying policy templates. It means:
- Every control has clear, written procedures
- Implementation is backed by logs or reports
- Roles and responsibilities are clearly assigned and reflected
- Regular updates are documented
As stated in 32 CFR, “The findings and evidence produced during the security assessments can facilitate risk-based decisions by organizations related to the CUI requirements” (83098). Assessors aren’t adversaries; they’re security professionals tasked with validating the maturity of a company’s cybersecurity posture. Their focus on procuring evidence isn’t about catching companies off guard but about ensuring that their systems are actually protecting sensitive data. A successful assessment depends heavily on preparation, internal alignment, and a shared understanding of the standards being evaluated.
The Non-Negotiables of Preparation for CMMC Audits
Without proper groundwork, many teams find themselves overwhelmed or blindsided during the assessment process, and in this episode Jil cautions organizations against rushing into them. Too often, companies engage in formal assessments before they’re ready-resulting in a false start, wasted time, and frustrated teams. A false start occurs when an OSA comes to a C3PAO without enough information to properly assess them. The assessor can then declare a “false start” and send them away.
The solution? Seek assistance from knowledgeable ESPs and consultants and take the time to understand what each control truly requires. Not just in theory, but in practice.
Collaboration and Commitment
At its core, this episode of CybHer is a reminder that cybersecurity and compliance standards isn’t a solo effort. It takes cross-functional collaboration, a commitment to detail, and an ecosystem that supports continuous growth and improvement. Jil’s insights provided more than just technical guidance. They underscore the importance of intentional preparation and a human-centered approach to assessments.
For more information about Axiom, our services, CMMC templates, and more, check out our website!