Driving Zero Trust Readiness

A Federal Civilian Agency faced the complex challenge of complying with new Zero Trust (ZT) architecture mandates outlined in Executive Order 14028 and OMB M-22-09, requiring six major ZT requirements to be implemented by FY24. Integrating emerging federal cybersecurity directives, managing cross-functional teams, and aligning strategic goals demanded expert program management, technical integration, and measurable progress tracking. 

Kentro addressed the challenge via several key initiatives: 

Establishing Governance and Metrics-Driven Visibility through ZT Dashboards 

• Developed a ZT Program Governance Model to define leadership roles, responsibilities, and integration points

• Created a dynamic dashboard for visualizing progress, risks, and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) aligned to the ZT pillars as listed in the Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)

• Automated Extract, Transform, Load (ETL) scripts to feed data from cyber sources into a SQL Server–Tableau environment for real-time reporting

• Enabled executive leadership to monitor both high-level and task-level progress

Implementing Automated Data Collection and Progress Tracking 

• Created a PowerApps-based platform for recurring project updates across 20+ ZT initiatives

• Centralized data collection and reporting of risk metrics and project status

• Integrated inputs into the SharePoint-based ZT Mod Plan for consistent success measurement

Delivering Documentation, Roadmaps, and Stakeholder Engagement 

• Produced 17+ deliverables, including stakeholder engagement plans, updated ZT roadmaps, business cases, and technical documentation

• Advanced Data and Network pillar maturity with an updated ZT Reference Architecture

• Facilitated 50+ engagements with executives and stakeholders, including Cyber leadership, quarterly commissioner briefings, and project sponsors

• Real-time dashboard insights improved transparency, risk identification, and maturity tracking across the six ZT pillars

• Automated reporting reduced manual efforts, improving accuracy and audit readiness

• PowerApps-based data platform centralized performance tracking and streamlined communication

• SharePoint-based knowledge management improved documentation access and alignment with governance standards

Kentro delivered a sustainable, metrics-driven framework for the agency’s ZT implementation: 

• Real-time dashboards and automated tracking tools enabled informed, data-driven decision-making

• Strategic engagement across stakeholders aligned the program with evolving federal mandates

• Proactive management reduced delivery risks and advanced cybersecurity maturity

• The agency is now better positioned to secure sensitive data and respond to future audit and compliance needs