CMMI Basics

Level 1 - The Initial Level
The software process is characterized as ad hoc, and occasionally even chaotic. Few processes are defined, and success depends on individual effort.

Level 2 - The Repeatable Level
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.

Level 3 - The Defined Level
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.

Level 4 - The Managed Level
Detailed measures of the software process and product quality are collected. Both the software process and products are quantitatively understood and controlled.

Level 5 - The Optimizing Level
Optimizing - Continuous process improvement is enabled by quantitative feedback from the process and from piloting innovative ideas and technologies.