The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification, or CMMC, has been a topic of conversation for a few years within the Defense Industrial Base (DIB). CMMC is a unified standard for implementing cybersecurity across the DIB, which includes over 300,000 companies in the supply chain. The CMMC is the DoD’s response to significant compromises of sensitive defense information located on contractors’ information systems. The US Department of Defense (DoD) released the much-anticipated Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) version 1.0•• on January 31, 2020. Since then, CMMC has undergone much scrutiny and discussion. Here is a timeline of CMMC:
September 2020: The CMMC program published by the DoD (now known as CMMC 1.0). This framework assesses a Defense Industrial Base (DIB) contractor’s compliance with a set of cybersecurity standards.
November 2020: A Presidential interim rule became effective, establishing a five-year phase-in period and requiring compliance with NIST 800-71 rules.
March 2021: The DoD announced an internal review of CMMC’s implementation.
November 2021: The DoD announced CMMC 2.0, and updated program and requirements designed to meet certain goals, including:
- Protecting sensitive information to enable and protect the warfighter.
- Dynamically enhance DIB cybersecurity to meet evolving threats.
- Ensuring accountability while minimizing barriers to compliance with DoD requirements.
- Contributing to a collaborative culture of cybersecurity and cyber resilience.
- Maintaining public trust through high professional and ethical standards.
In today’s fast-paced and ever-evolving technological landscape, businesses constantly seek efficient, cost-effective solutions to meet their IT needs. One avenue that has gained prominence in recent years is partnering with value-added resellers (VARs). These professional resellers play a crucial role in providing a wide array of IT and peripheral products, offering customization options, and streamlining the procurement process. In this blog post, we will delve into the myriad benefits of leveraging the services of a value-added reseller.
6 Signs You Need to Work With a Value-Added Reseller
Recognizing when to bring a value-added reseller (VAR) into your technology strategy is essential for optimizing efficiency and unlocking the full potential of your IT infrastructure. Here are key signs that indicate it’s time to collaborate with a VAR:
- Complex IT Requirements: If your organization has intricate IT needs that go beyond off-the-shelf solutions, a VAR can tailor products and services to meet your specific requirements. Customization is a forte of VARs, making them ideal partners for businesses with unique technological demands.
- Limited In-House Expertise: Lacking in-house expertise to navigate the ever-evolving tech landscape? VARs bring a wealth of knowledge to the table. If your team struggles to stay abreast of the latest technologies or lacks the depth of understanding needed for effective IT decision-making, partnering with a VAR can bridge that knowledge gap.
- Budget Constraints: In a world where every penny counts, VARs can be instrumental in optimizing your IT budget. Through their bulk purchasing power and vendor relationships, VARs can often secure more favorable pricing, ensuring your organization gets the best value for its investment.
- Project Management Challenges: Without proper project management, embarking on a large-scale IT project can be overwhelming. VARs specialize in end-to-end project oversight, from planning and customization to implementation and support. If your organization is facing challenges in executing seamless IT projects, a VAR can provide the necessary expertise and coordination.
- Diverse Product Needs: A VAR’s comprehensive product portfolio is a clear advantage if your business requires various IT products, from servers and workstations to networking equipment and peripherals. Simplify your procurement process by centralizing your technology needs with a VAR.
- Global or Multi-Location Presence: IT procurement and distribution logistics can be complex for businesses with operations spanning multiple locations. VARs streamline these processes, offering the convenience of receiving and customizing products at various locations and coordinating efficient shipments.
The Benefits of Value-Added Resellers for Your Business
Diverse Product Portfolio
One of the primary advantages of collaborating with a VAR is access to an extensive range of IT and peripheral products. From servers and workstations to laptops, thin clients, storage systems, networking equipment, imaging equipment, and IT accessories, VARs act as one-stop shops for all your technology requirements. This diversity ensures businesses find tailored solutions aligning with their needs and goals.
Expertise and Guidance
VARs bring a wealth of expertise to the table. Their teams are well-versed in the latest industry trends, technological advancements, and product specifications. This knowledge is invaluable for businesses navigating the complex world of IT procurement. VARs can guide clients through product selection, ensuring that the chosen solutions are cutting-edge and align with the organization’s objectives.
Customization Options
Flexibility is a hallmark of VAR services. These professionals understand that each business has unique requirements, and they offer customization options to address these individual needs. Whether configuring servers, tailoring workstations, or personalizing laptops, VARs provide the flexibility to create bespoke solutions that enhance efficiency and productivity.
Cost-Effective Solutions
VARs can often negotiate better client prices by leveraging their relationships with multiple vendors. This bulk purchasing power translates into cost savings for businesses. Additionally, VARs can help organizations optimize their IT investments, ensuring that every component and solution aligns with budget constraints without compromising performance.
Convenient Procurement Process
VARs simplify the procurement process for businesses. They act as intermediaries, streamlining the ordering and fulfillment procedures. Clients have the option to receive and customize products at their locations, providing a seamless experience. This efficiency is particularly beneficial for businesses with multiple locations, as VARs can coordinate the logistics of shipping products to different sites.
Efficient Project Management
When undertaking large-scale IT projects, effective project management is crucial. VARs excel in this area, overseeing the entire process from product selection and customization to delivery and implementation. This end-to-end approach ensures that projects are executed seamlessly, minimizing downtime and optimizing the return on investment.
Up-To-Date Technological Solutions
Staying current with the latest technological advancements is daunting for many businesses. VARs, however, thrive in this dynamic environment. They continuously evaluate and adopt cutting-edge solutions, ensuring their clients benefit from the latest innovations. This proactive approach positions businesses for success in an ever-evolving digital landscape.
Dedicated Support and Maintenance
The relationship with a VAR extends beyond the point of sale. Many VARs offer dedicated support and maintenance services, providing peace of mind for clients. This ongoing support ensures that IT infrastructure remains robust, secure, and up-to-date, minimizing the risk of disruptions to business operations.
Scalability and Adaptability
As businesses grow and evolve, their IT needs change accordingly. VARs understand the importance of scalability and adaptability. Whether it’s expanding server capacity, incorporating new technologies, or upgrading networking equipment, VARs help businesses navigate these transitions smoothly.
Focus on Core Competencies
By outsourcing IT procurement and management to VARs, businesses can redirect their focus and resources to core competencies. This strategic approach allows organizations to concentrate on what they do best, leaving the complexities of IT infrastructure in the capable hands of VAR professionals.
Braxton-Grant Is Your Go-To Value-Added Reseller
At Braxton-Grant Technologies, we stand out as your premier value-added reseller, offering unparalleled expertise and a diverse range of cutting-edge IT solutions. We don’t just use the term; we are truly Value-added in our ability to implement, integrate, and support solutions.
We’ve also got the best partnerships in the industry: Palo Alto training, Broadcom training, and SonicWall training are just a few of our relationships that can assist in providing your business with tailored solutions. Trust us to enhance your operations with tailored, innovative technology. Reach out to our expert team to get started today.