CMMI Basics

The five maturity levels in the SEI's Capability Maturity Model are:

Initial- The software process is characterized as ad hoc, and occasionally even chaotic. Few processes are defined, and success depends on individual effort.

Repeatable - Basic project management processes are established to track cost, schedule, and functionality. The necessary process discipline is in place to repeat earlier successes on projects with similar applications.

Defined-The software process for both management and engineering activities is documented, standardized, and integrated into a standard software process for the organization. All projects use an approved, tailored version of the organization's standard software process for developing and maintaining software.

Managed - Detailed measures of the software process and product quality are collected. Both the software process and products are quantitatively understood and controlled.

Optimizing- Continuous process improvement is enabled by quantitative feedback from the process and from piloting innovative ideas and technologies.