Compliance Consulting Services for TX-RAMP
TX-RAMP Compliance Consulting Services

At Hicks Engineering, we specialize in guiding cloud service providers through the rigorous requirements of the Texas Risk and Authorization Management Program (TX-RAMP). This state-mandated program is essential for any vendor seeking to offer cloud computing services to Texas state agencies and public institutions of higher education. We provide comprehensive support to help you achieve and maintain TX-RAMP provisional, Level 1, and Level 2 certifications, enabling seamless partnerships within the Texas public sector.

What is TX-RAMP?

The Texas Risk and Authorization Management Program (TX-RAMP) is a standardized framework established by the Texas Department of Information Resources (DIR). Its primary purpose is to ensure that cloud computing services (Software as a Service - SaaS, Platform as a Service - PaaS, Infrastructure as a Service - IaaS) meet the security and data protection requirements necessary for processing the data of Texas state agencies and public universities. By providing a common set of security controls and a streamlined assessment process, TX-RAMP helps state entities manage risks associated with cloud solutions while giving vendors a clear path to authorization.

TX-RAMP has two primary levels of certification, based on the impact level of the data being handled:

  • Level 1: Applicable to cloud services that handle low to moderate impact data.
  • Level 2: Required for cloud services that process moderate to high impact data, aligning with stringent security benchmarks based on NIST 800-53 requirements.
  • Additionally, a Provisional Certificate may be granted as an initial step towards full certification.
Our TX-RAMP Compliance Services

We offer end-to-end consulting services to guide your organization through every phase of the TX-RAMP authorization process. Our expertise has successfully helped numerous companies achieve provisional, Level 1, and Level 2 certifications.

TX-RAMP Readiness & Assessment:
  • Initial Gap Analysis: We begin with a thorough assessment of your current security posture, policies, and controls against the specific requirements of TX-RAMP Level 1 or Level 2, identifying gaps and areas for improvement.
  • Control Implementation Guidance: Provide detailed recommendations and actionable steps for implementing or enhancing security controls to meet TX-RAMP's technical and procedural requirements.
  • Documentation Development: Assist in creating or refining all necessary documentation, including System Security Plans (SSPs), policies, procedures, incident response plans, and other artifacts required for your TX-RAMP package.
  • Assessment Facilitation: We act as your trusted advisor, working closely with your team and the Texas DIR during the assessment phase, helping interpret requests and validate evidence.
Authorization & Continuous Monitoring:
  • Package Submission Support: Guide you through the process of compiling and submitting your complete TX-RAMP authorization package to the Texas Department of Information Resources (DIR).
  • Remediation Plan Development: Help address any findings or Plan of Action and Milestones (POA&Ms) identified during the assessment, developing clear strategies for their resolution.
  • Continuous Monitoring Program: Establish a robust continuous monitoring program to ensure ongoing compliance with TX-RAMP requirements. This includes guidance on vulnerability scanning, patch management, annual assessments, and reporting.
  • Annual Review & Re-authorization: Prepare your organization for annual reviews and re-authorization processes, ensuring your certification remains current and valid.
Why Choose Hicks Engineering for TX-RAMP?

Navigating TX-RAMP can be complex and resource-intensive. Partnering with us offers distinct advantages:

  • Proven Expertise: We have a track record of successfully guiding numerous companies through TX-RAMP, helping them achieve provisional, Level 1, and Level 2 certifications.
  • Streamlined Process: Our structured approach simplifies the TX-RAMP journey, saving you time and internal resources.
  • Deep Regulatory Knowledge: We possess in-depth understanding of TX-RAMP requirements, as well as related frameworks like NIST 800-53, ensuring comprehensive compliance.
  • Reduced Risk: Our proactive approach helps identify and mitigate security gaps early, minimizing the risk of delays or non-compliance.
  • Access to the Texas Market: Achieve the necessary authorization to securely offer your cloud services to the vast Texas public sector market, including state agencies and higher education institutions.
Get Started

Ready to unlock opportunities in the Texas public sector? Contact Us today to discuss your TX-RAMP compliance needs and how Hicks Engineering can help you achieve certification efficiently and effectively.