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February 18, 2026
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Building secure collaboration frameworks for defense-focused organizations.
Modern defense contracting is inherently collaborative. Prime contractors work with dozens of subcontractors, program teams span multiple locations, and sensitive technical documents flow across organizational boundaries daily. Every touchpoint where CUI or FCI crosses a boundary represents a potential compliance gap and a security risk.
Building secure collaboration frameworks is not just a technical challenge — it is an organizational and contractual one. CMMC requirements flow down from prime contractors to subcontractors, meaning your supply chain partners must also demonstrate appropriate compliance levels.
Not all collaboration tools meet CMMC requirements. Platforms used to process, store, or transmit CUI must meet specific security standards. Key considerations include:
- FedRAMP Authorization: Cloud service providers within the CMMC boundary must meet FedRAMP Moderate or equivalent standards. Microsoft 365 GCC High is specifically designed for DoD contractors handling CUI.
- End-to-End Encryption: All communications must be encrypted in transit and at rest. Evaluate whether your video conferencing, messaging, and file transfer tools meet this requirement.
- Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): All user accounts on in-scope systems must be protected by MFA — a foundational NIST SP 800-171 requirement (IA.3.083).
- Audit Logging: Every in-scope platform must generate and retain audit logs sufficient to support CMMC assessment and incident response.
Technology: Choosing the Right Platforms
Technology alone is insufficient. Your collaboration framework must include documented processes and trained personnel:
- CUI Identification and Marking: Personnel must recognize what constitutes CUI and mark it appropriately before sharing.
- Subcontractor Flow-Down: Contracts with subcontractors must include appropriate CMMC and DFARS clause flow-downs.
- Approved Transfer Methods: Define and enforce approved methods for transferring CUI — encrypted email, secure file transfer, or authorized cloud platforms only.
- Role-Specific Training: Security awareness training must cover collaboration scenarios: recognizing CUI in documents, using approved tools only, and reporting suspicious activity.
Processes and People: The Human Side of Collaboration Security
Managing compliance across your supply chain is one of the most complex aspects of building a secure collaboration framework. Best practices include:
- Conducting due diligence on subcontractor CMMC posture before engaging them on CUI-bearing work
- Including CMMC compliance requirements in subcontract agreements
- Periodically reviewing subcontractor compliance status after changes in personnel, systems, or scope
- Designing your framework for flexibility — able to adapt to new CMMC rule updates and technology changes
Connect with Solvere One to build your secure collaboration framework today.
Solvere One helps defense contractors and their supply chain partners design and implement secure collaboration frameworks that meet CMMC requirements without sacrificing operational efficiency. From platform selection and configuration to policy development and supply chain compliance management, our team supports your organization at every level.
Contact us today to strengthen your collaboration security posture.
Article Details
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Date: February 18, 2026
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Timeline: 2026 - 2026