Executive Summary:
For defense contractors, maintaining a strong Supplier Performance Risk System (SPRS) score is critical. It directly affects eligibility for Department of Defense (DoD) (also known as Department of War) contracts and serves as a key indicator of your cybersecurity posture.
With Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) assessments underway, now is the time to strengthen your SPRS score.
Why It Matters
- Contract eligibility: Your SPRS score reflects alignment with National Institute of Standards and Technology Special Publication 800-171 (NIST SP 800-171) and directly impacts award decisions
- Supply chain risk signal: Prime contractors use SPRS scores to evaluate subcontractor risk
- CMMC readiness: A strong score positions your organization for smoother CMMC Level 2 certification
Understand the Basics
SPRS score
Measures how fully your organization has implemented the 110 security controls outlined NIST SP 800-171.
CMMC certification
Confirms controls are not just documented but fully implemented and supported by evidence. For most contractors, Level 2 requires a third-party assessment.
Steps to Boost Your SPRS Score
- Conduct a Gap Assessment
- Evaluate your environment against all 110 NIST SP 800-171 requirements
- Identify controls that are missing or only partially implemented
- Update Your System Security Plan (SSP)
- Ensure your SSP accurately reflects how each control is implemented
- Treat the SSP as the foundation of your SPRS submission
- Document Remediation with POA&Ms
- Use Plans of Action and Milestones to track gaps and corrective actions
- Show progress and accountability, not just intent
- Prioritize High-Value Controls
- Focus first on higher-point controls like access control, multi-factor authentication, and audit logging
- Closing these gaps can materially improve your score
- Keep Your SPRS Score Current
- Update your submission at least every three years or after major changes
- Regular updates demonstrate transparency and maturity
- Align with CMMC Goals
- A strong SPRS score supports future CMMC Level 2 certification
- Begin preparing for third-party assessments conducted by Certified Third-Party Assessment Organizations
Avoid Common Pitfalls
- False reporting: Inflated scores without evidence can trigger False Claims Act risk
- Waiting for perfection: The DoD expects incremental improvement, not instant 110s
- Poor communication: Keep prime contractors informed of remediation progress
The Path Forward
- Stay competitive: Balancing SPRS improvement with CMMC preparation protects contract eligibility
- Commit to cybersecurity: Your SPRS score reflects real-world security, not paperwork
A strong SPRS score is essential for both current contract eligibility and future CMMC compliance. By focusing on evidence, transparency, and strategic remediation, defense contractors can reduce risk and strengthen their position in the Defense Industrial Base.
Act now to secure your place in the defense supply chain.
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