Overview
CMMI, or Capability Maturity Model Integration, is a process improvement framework used to assess and improve an organisation's development and service processes. Organisations are appraised against maturity levels through a formal appraisal conducted by a certified lead appraiser, and the appraisal results are managed by the ISACA CMMI Institute. It is a voluntary benchmarking appraisal rather than a government registration, and it is often sought by software and IT services firms for client and tender requirements.
Objective
To achieve a CMMI maturity level rating through a formal appraisal of an organisation's processes.
Characteristics
- Based on the Capability Maturity Model Integration framework
- Appraisals are conducted by certified lead appraisers
- Organisations are rated across defined maturity levels
- Managed by the ISACA CMMI Institute
- A voluntary appraisal, not a statutory registration
Eligibility
- Software, IT and services organisations seeking process maturity ratings
- Businesses able to implement and document defined processes
- Organisations willing to undergo a formal appraisal
- Companies seeking recognition for client or tender requirements
Governing law
- ISACA CMMI Institute (framework owner and appraisal governance)
- Certified CMMI Lead Appraisers
The process
- 1Readiness assessment
We assess your current processes against the target CMMI maturity level.
- 2Process implementation
We help implement and document the practices required by the model.
- 3Appraisal
We coordinate the formal appraisal with a certified lead appraiser.
- 4Rating
We support the appraisal until the maturity level rating is achieved and published.
Documents required
- Details of the organisation and its processes
- Process and project documentation
- Records demonstrating implementation of practices
- Details of key personnel and responsibilities
- Scope and objectives for the appraisal
Benefits
- Provides a recognised measure of process maturity
- Supports credibility with clients and in tenders
- Encourages consistent and improved delivery processes
- Helps identify areas for process improvement
Frequently asked questions
Is CMMI a certification or an appraisal?
CMMI results in a maturity level rating achieved through a formal appraisal by a certified lead appraiser, governed by the ISACA CMMI Institute. It is often referred to as certification in common usage.
Who typically seeks CMMI ratings?
Software and IT services organisations often seek CMMI maturity ratings to meet client expectations and qualify for tenders that require demonstrated process maturity.