Capability Maturity Assessment (CMA) is an approach to process improvement based on a framework – a Capability Maturity Model (CMM) – that describes how characteristics of a process evolve from ad hoc to optimal. Maturity models are defined in terms of a progression through levels that describe process characteristics. When an organization gains an understanding of process characteristics, it can evaluate its level of maturity and put in place a plan to improve its capabilities. It can also measure improvement and compare itself to competitors or partners, guided by the levels of the model. With each new level, process execution becomes more consistent, predictable, and reliable. Processes improve as they take on characteristics of the levels. Progression happens in a set order. No level can be skipped. Levels commonly include:
- Level 0: Absence of capability
- Level 1: Initial or Ad Hoc: Success depends on the competence of individuals
- Level 2: Repeatable: Minimum process discipline is in place
- Level 3: Defined: Standards are set and used
- Level 4: Managed: Processes are quantified and controlled
- Level 5: Optimized: Process improvement goals are quantified
Within each level, criteria are described across process features. For example, a maturity model may include criteria related to how processes are executed, including the level of automation of those processes. It may focus on policies and controls, as well as process details.
Such an assessment helps identify what is working well, what is not working well, and where an organization has gaps. Based on the findings, the organization can develop a roadmap to target:
- High-value improvement opportunities related to processes, methods, resources, and automation
- Capabilities that align with business strategy
- Governance processes for periodic evaluation of organizational progress based on characteristics in the model
