Spoiler Alert: Adopting the CMMI is supposed to be fun!

Hey CMMI Appraiser, our boss told us to get started with CMMI without letting us know why. I don’t like what I see so far: heavy processes, excessive documentation, compliance, CMMI certification and rules, rules, rules. Why do companies choose to adopt the CMMI? ~ Ruth A.

Hey Ruth,

The CMMI is none of those things. It is intended as a tool to help you make your job environment much better. It’s not supposed to be about filling out a lot of forms, documenting everything and forcing everyone to all behave in exactly the same way, completely without creativity. I don't blame you for being suspicious.  Those who work in large Waterfall-based organizations have seen that movie before. But guess what?

CMMI is supposed to be fun (or at least it should be)!

True, it’s no fun when the boss tells you what to do without saying why. Next thing you know, you’re doing research on engineering performance improvement methods and tools, which puts you at the mercy of so-called CMMI experts, who may soon have you convinced that the CMMI is all about soul-crushing compliance or certification.

But that’s not what the CMMI is all about. Instead, think about CMMI as a tool that helps you ask questions and learn about the way you work, so that you can get better. Consider:

• CMMI can help make your estimates better
• CMMI can help improve predictability and reduce late projects
• CMMI can give your boss more information to help him understand what is going on with projects so he stops micromanaging you
• CMMI can help avoid tedious rework by making sure the requirements are right when you get them, bringing clarity and validation to the process
• CMMI can help put a framework in place that helps you manage client’s expectations, which leads to happier clients
• CMMI can help you bring stability to reduce chaos in your business

… and here's a bullet point that should REALLY get your boss’ attention: 

• CMMI can help you define and scale the Way you do business, companywide.

For the truth about CMMI, Ruth, you and your boss are invited to check out our upcoming FREE webinar:

September 25, 2014 – CMMI: Everything You Need to Know!

This high level Webinar is intended for people who are just getting started with CMMI and aren’t sure how to proceed. The two-hour webinar is not a substitute for an Introduction to CMMI training class, which is a 3-day intensive. And it’s not a substitute for other types of learning. But it is a good way for you to get exposure to the truth about CMMI – so don’t miss it!

Like this blog? Forward to your nearest engineering or software exec!

Jeff Dalton is a Certified SCAMPI Lead Appraiser, Certified CMMI Instructor, author, and consultant with years of real-world experience with the CMMI in all types of organizations. Jeff has taught thousands of students in CMMI trainings and has received an aggregate satisfaction score of 4.97 out of 5 from his students.

Visit www.broadswordsolutions.com for more information about engineering strategy, performance innovation , software process improvement and running a successful CMMI program.

To download eBooks about CMMI, visit Jeff’s Author Page on Amazon.