For organizations in the Defense Industrial Base (DIB), cybersecurity is no longer optional—it’s a contractual requirement. With the rollout of the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC), contractors must prove that they can safeguard Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). At the heart of this readiness lies the Supplier Performance Risk System (SPRS) score.

Your SPRS score isn’t just a number—it’s a powerful signal to the Department of Defense (DoD), contracting officers, and potential partners about your cybersecurity posture. Understanding, improving, and maintaining your SPRS score is key to passing CMMC audits and securing future contracts.

What Is an SPRS Score and How Is It Calculated?

The SPRS score measures how well your organization complies with NIST SP 800-171, the framework for protecting CUI. Every company starts with a baseline of 110 points, and deductions are made for unmet security requirements.

• 110 = Full Compliance (all 110 practices in place)
  
  

• 0 to 70 = Common Range (most organizations report deficiencies)
  
  

• Negative Scores Possible if multiple critical controls are missing
  
  

Each control has a specific weight. For example:

• Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) → -5 points if missing
  
  

• Encryption of CUI → -3 points if missing
  
  

• Audit Logging → -5 points if missing
  
  

The more high-value controls you fail to implement, the more points are deducted—directly lowering your SPRS score.

Why SPRS Scores Matter for CMMC Audits

CMMC auditors don’t just look at paperwork—they validate practices. Your SPRS score sets the stage for that validation process.

Here’s why it’s critical:

1. Audit Readiness – Auditors cross-check your SPRS score against your System Security Plan (SSP) and on-the-ground practices. If there’s a mismatch, it raises red flags.
   
   

2. Contract Eligibility – Some solicitations already require contractors to submit their SPRS score with bids. A low score could automatically disqualify you.
   
   

3. Risk Indicator – Contracting officers use SPRS scores to evaluate whether a company is a high or low cybersecurity risk. A strong score boosts your competitive position.
   
   

4. Future-Proofing – CMMC requirements will only get stricter. Starting with a healthy SPRS score gives your business a head start.
   
   

Common Mistakes That Hurt SPRS Scores

Many organizations struggle with compliance because they underestimate the requirements. Common pitfalls include:

• Incomplete System Security Plan (SSP) – Missing or vague documentation is one of the fastest ways to lose credibility.
  
  

• Relying on Technology Alone – Tools like firewalls and antivirus help, but without policies, procedures, and training, gaps remain.
  
  

• Poor Record-Keeping – Auditors require evidence. Without logs, screenshots, or reports, even implemented controls may not count.
  
  

• Overconfidence in Self-Assessment – Some companies report inflated scores. This backfires when CMMC auditors find discrepancies.
  
  

How to Improve Your SPRS Score

Improving your SPRS score requires a structured approach:

1. Conduct a Readiness Assessment – Benchmark your current practices against NIST SP 800-171.
   
   

2. Prioritize High-Value Controls – Address requirements with the biggest point deductions first (like MFA, encryption, and auditing).
   
   

3. Build and Maintain Documentation – Create a detailed SSP and POA&M (Plan of Action & Milestones) to track gaps and remediation steps.
   
   

4. Train Your Workforce – Human error is often the weakest link. Regular training ensures employees understand their role in protecting CUI.
   
   

5. Adopt Continuous Monitoring – Don’t wait for audits. Ongoing reviews and updates ensure controls stay effective and compliant.
   
   

How Techellence Helps Organizations Succeed

At Techellence, we specialize in helping defense contractors strengthen cybersecurity, improve SPRS scores, and prepare for CMMC audits with confidence.

Here’s how we can support your organization:

• Comprehensive Gap Assessments – We identify exactly where your SPRS score is suffering and provide a roadmap for improvement.
  
  

• Audit-Ready Documentation – From SSPs to POA&Ms, we craft the detailed records auditors expect.
  
  

• Control Implementation Support – We help deploy critical security measures like MFA, encryption, and monitoring systems.
  
  

• Ongoing Compliance Monitoring – We ensure your organization stays aligned as requirements evolve.
  
  

• Audit Preparation & Coaching – We guide your team through mock audits, reducing surprises when the official audit begins.
  
  

With Techellence, improving your SPRS score is not just about compliance—it’s about building trust with the DoD, protecting sensitive data, and securing a competitive edge.

Final Thoughts

Your SPRS score is more than a compliance metric—it’s your organization’s cybersecurity reputation. As CMMC audits become mandatory, preparation is not optional. A strong SPRS score builds confidence with auditors, reduces cyber risks, and positions your business for long-term success in the defense contracting space.

Partner with Techellence to optimize your IT operations, enhance security, and drive sustainable business growth.