For organizations engaged with the Department of Defense (DoD), a Supplier Performance Risk System score, or SPRS score, is crucial to do business. An SPRS score is required under the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) and, before the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) program becomes an official requirement, can be used for measuring risk when awarding DoD contracts. Therefore, a higher (and accurate) SPRS score will be a critical component in your pursuit of new DoD contracts.
What is a SPRS Score?
A SPRS score provides a ranking system of the risk associated with suppliers and contractors and helps gauge the reliability and security of supply chain partners. This score can also provide insight into how well a company meets performance expectations and manages risks.
Why Your Business Needs a SPRS Score for CMMC Compliance
The CMMC framework is designed to enhance the protection of Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) and Federal Contract Information (FCI), making the SPRS score a key indicator of an organization’s ability to adhere to NIST SP 800-171 and CMMC requirements. This framework requires suppliers and contractors to not only meet a certain level of cybersecurity maturity but to also maintain compliance.
DFARS 252.204-7019 requires any organization that is subject to the requirements of DFARS 2522.204-7102, to assess themselves against NIST SP 800-171 using the DoD Assessment Methodology (DODAM), and to generate an accurate score that is to be entered into SPRS.
To obtain government contracts, organizations wishing to do business with the DoD must demonstrate their compliance and risk management, signaling they can meet the rigorous standards of CMMC and protect sensitive information. The SPRS score accomplishes this by providing an objective measure of a company’s overall performance and risk profile.
A high SPRS score indicates strong performance and effective risk management practices, which are crucial for maintaining the integrity and security of federal contracts. This demonstrates to the DoD your organization’s commitment to high standards of performance and risk management, which can be a deciding factor in securing contracts. Having a high SPRS score can also set your business apart in a highly competitive marketplace, as long as it’s accurate.
What is a Good SPRS Score?
SPRS scores can range from –203 to 110, with the average (supposed) range today being between 0 to 100. While the exact definition of a “good” SPRS score can vary by industry, here’s a general guideline to follow:
- 80-100 (Excellent): A score at the top of the scale indicates exceptional performance and minimal risk. Organizations that land here are viewed as top performers that can demonstrate a high level of competency in managing performance and risk. According to the CMMC framework, a score above 80 is considered excellent and reflects a strong commitment to cybersecurity practices.
- 60-79 (Good): Organizations in this range show solid performance and are capable of meeting CMMC requirements but have some areas that need improvement. Work is still needed to achieve a higher score.
- 40-59 (Average): A score in the middle suggests the organization meets the basic performance expectations but has several areas that require improvement. For CMMC compliance, this score indicates significant gaps in cybersecurity practices or risk management that must be addressed.
- 20-39 (Below Average): Significant improvements with performance and risk management must be addressed if your organization scores at this level. CMMC standards will not be met without changes in cybersecurity practices.
- 0-19 (Poor): A score below 20 indicates critical cybersecurity issues in the organization. Businesses in this category will likely face considerable challenges in securing government contracts.
Steps to Getting a SPRS Score
- Review the Assessment Criteria: Prior to completing a SPRS assessment process, review the criteria of the DODAM and understand how your organization will be evaluated. The SPRS assessment will involve a thorough evaluation of your organization’s performance, including delivery, quality, and risk management practices.
- Choose a Reputable Provider: Many external consulting firms specialize in performance and risk management, so it’s important to choose one with a reputable track record that is recognized and experienced in delivering comprehensive SPRS assessments.
- Prepare for the Assessment: Conduct your own internal review using NIST SP 800-171A prior to hiring an assessment firm. Address any areas of weakness or concern prior to the assessment to increase your chances of obtaining a favorable SPRS score.
- Complete the Assessment: The SPRS assessment process may involve questionnaires, documentation review, interviews with key personnel, and an analysis or processes and practices. This thorough review should accurately capture your performance and risk management practices.
- Review and Act on the Results: Review your SPRS score and the accompanying report to identify any areas of improvement. Implement recommended changes and regularly monitor your performance and risk management practices to ensure they are aligned with the requirements of a top SPRS score.
Get it, Be Accurate, Maintain it, Be Confident
In the competitive defense contracting landscape, a high SPRS score can mean the difference between being overlooked by the DoD and securing lucrative contracts. Organizations that proactively take steps to obtain and improve a SPRS score have a leg up on those that don’t.
To learn more about getting a SPRS score, or to talk with experts in the field of cybersecurity, contact Cuick Trac.
