What is a PIID and where do we get one!

Hello!

I’ve read a few places that reference a PIID that we need to fill out before appraisal. Is this still part of the SCAMPI process, and if so, where can we obtain a PIID template to get started with?

Thanks,  Tyler.

Tyler,

Thank you for your question to “Ask the CMMI Appraiser!

The PIID, or “Process Implementation Indicator Document” is nothing more than a spreadsheet or database that has all of the practices on the left, some columns for text descriptors, and a column on the right to place a document link or name. 

The PIID is not a requirement, however.  Many Lead Appraisers do not use them, and some (like us here at Broadsword) have developed a great deal of automation and functionality in theirs.  The PIIDs we use here at the ‘sword all work together and roll-up into a master database that makes the appraisal more automated.  But there is no requirement in CMMI or SCAMPI to use one.

There are even some companies that have developed elaborate databases to manage appraisal data, but we prefer the faster, more accessible version using Excel macros. It doesn’t require programming, installation, or having any special software on your server or computer. Better yet - there is nothing to buy at all!

Your Lead Appraiser, when you’re ready to choose one, should be able to advise you on which PIID to use, and if they have one for you it should be included in your contract with them.

Best of luck on your appraisal!

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.

What changes do we have to worry about due to the upgrade from CMMI-DEV v1.2 to CMMI-DEV v1.3?

Dear Appraiser,

It's been three years since our last SCAMPI Appraisal, and since then the CMMI has moved from v1.2 to v1.3.  That means a lot of us will be RE-APPRAISED on version v1.3.  We're pretty anxious about getting appraised again.  Can you tell us what the major differences are?  ~Ang in Albany

Dear Ang,

There were numerous changes to the CMMI when they upgraded from CMMI v1.2 to CMMI v1.3, and there were even MORE changes with the SCAMPI Method when it switched from SCAMPI v1.2 to SCAMPI v1.3.

Since you asked, over the next several days I'll be writing about some of those changes, giving you everything you need to know to prepare for your next appraisal.

But the BIGGEST thing that has changed in the last year is the the SEI is no longer the "CMMI Steward."  That's big news, and the new organization is called the "CMMI Institute."  The CMMI Institute is still an operating unit of Carnegie Mellon University (CMU), and they still are the authority on all things CMMI.  While they have a new CEO, Kirk Botula, many of the same people who were part of the SEI's CMMI team have moved over to the CMMI Institute.

By the way, Lead Appraisers from all over the world are reporting that the responsiveness of the new CMMI Institute - especially as it pertains to appraisal reviews and acceptance - is excellent!

On my next post I'll jump into which Process Areas have changed, including one brand new one, and a few big things that are gone forever!

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.

Can we "self-assess" and declare ourselves ML2?

We are currently working through the ISO 9000 registration process and are confronted with the additional need for CMMI Level 2.  I’m told by some of my peers that all I have to do is “self assess” and declare myself CMMI Level 2.  That seems sort of absurd.  I’ve been told by another friend that we need to self assess and have a SCAMPI from a certified assessor who in turn can issue a certificate.  What is the correct path?

Sure!  I declared myself a millionaire last week . . . .  as long as it's my own private fantasy that's no problem, but if others knew about it they'd start to question my sanity!

A CMMI SCAMPI Appraisal is a rigorous event that can only be conducted by an external licensed SCAMPI Lead Appraiser who is authorized by the SEI.  The appraisal is conducted with a team of people made up of both internal and external resources who must complete both the "Introduction to CMMI" class and the SCAMPI Appraisal Team Training class.

Typically organizations conduct a SCAMPI "C" appraisal to identify the gaps.  This is a "non-binding" event that does not become part of the public record.  Then a SCAMPI "A" is conducted.  The results of the SCAMPI A become public record regardless of the result.

Your ISO9000 prep will help a little - especially in the area of documented processes and policies.  But a CMMI SCAMPI appraisal is much more detailed than an ISO9000 audit, as we seek to verify actual process performance.

Your best bet is to start by contacting a licensed Lead Appraiser (www.broadswordsolutions.com) and engaging him/her for a consultation to help develop a plan for succeeding.

Good luck!

www.broadswordsolutions.com