The scenario
An illustrative contractor relies on an MSP for endpoints, identity, backups, and monitoring. Leadership hears that the MSP handles compliance and assumes its internal work is complete. The missing piece is a requirement-by-requirement allocation of responsibility and proof.
The discussion
A provider can operate important safeguards while the contractor remains responsible for personnel, physical protection, information handling, and contractual representations. Review the services, where CUI or security protection data is processed, and how the provider participates in assessment. Include subcontracted tools and support access in the conversation.
Questions for the team
Which requirements does the MSP implement? Which actions remain ours? What evidence will be available to an assessor? Does the offering satisfy applicable cloud conditions? Who authorizes changes? Document the answers in the relevant service records and SSP instead of relying on a broad assurance.