SCIF Considerations
Existing vs New
New SCIFs take longer and may drive significant construction costs, but may support ideal space configurations. Existing SCIFs may require compromise on size or location.
Contractual
SCIFs require a contract and willing sponsor. Contracts may require a SCIF. This chicken and egg problem needs to be uniquely addressed for each circumstance.
Location
Who are your customers? Where are your current and future employees located? Finding the right location that supports both is imperative.
Expansion
The timeline to obtain SCIF space may be lengthy. Ideally the right existing SCIF becomes available at the right time, but what if it does not? What is your business forecast? Will your target space support your future needs when you need it?
Unique Construction Details
Intelligence Community and DoD directives drive uniqueness into any SCIF construction process. A “simple” office buildout may be turn out to be complex (and expensive) when constructing a SCIF. Identifying issues and potential cost upfront can drastically alter the value of a potential space.
Approval Process
Identifying a new or potentially new SCIF space is just the beginning. The approval process includes Concept Validation, Facility Checklists, TEMPEST, Comm packages, and more. Purchase and lease agreements need to account for and support the approval process and timelines.