The Capability Maturity Model is a framework used primarily in software development to assess and improve an organization's software development processes. It helps organizations develop efficient and effective processes through a structured level of maturity, ranging from ad hoc practices to optimized processes. The model provides a clear path for continuous improvement and is beneficial in benchmarking performance, ensuring quality, and delivering consistent results.
Initial Level: Processes are unpredictable, poorly controlled, and reactive. | Managed Level: Processes are characterized for projects and are often reactive. | Defined Level: Processes are characterized for the organization and are proactive. | Quantitatively Managed Level: Processes are measured and controlled. | Optimizing Level: Focus on process improvement through innovative technologies and processes.
Start with an assessment of current process maturity | Engage all levels of staff in training | Regularly review progress and adjust as necessary
Provides a structured approach to process improvement | Facilitates benchmarking and standardization across projects | Enhances the ability to manage and reduce risks
Can be time-consuming and costly to implement | May require significant organizational change | Focuses more on processes than on end products
When needing to improve software development processes | When an organization seeks to benchmark its processes against an industry standard
In very small or less complex projects where the model may be too cumbersome | When immediate results are required, as full benefits may take time to realize