Maturity
In cybersecurity frameworks, maturity refers to how well-established and repeatable your security practices are. It's not just about having the right tools — it's about having documented processes, trained staff, consistent execution, and continuous improvement. A mature cybersecurity program runs reliably without depending on any single person's knowledge.
CMMC 1.0 included explicit maturity processes, but CMMC 2.0 simplified this. However, assessors still look for evidence that your practices are institutionalized — meaning they're documented, followed consistently, and reviewed regularly, not just implemented once and forgotten.
Why It Matters
Even under CMMC 2.0, demonstrating maturity in your security practices builds assessor confidence and reduces the risk of findings. A well-documented, consistently followed process is far more likely to pass assessment than an ad-hoc approach.