CMMI V1.3: What Could Change!

The next release of the CMMI Product Suite—an approach that provides organizations with the essential elements of effective processes that ultimately improve their performance—is expected in November 2010. This Version 1.3 (V1.3) release includes improvements to CMMI for Development (CMMI-DEV), CMMI for Acquisition (CMMI-ACQ), and CMMI for Services (CMMI-SVC) models all during the same development cycle. This cycle also includes improvements to the appraisal method (SCAMPI) and CMMI-related training. The improvements planned for CMMI models do not require major changes or retraining for those currently using CMMI.

The “CMMI Version 1.3 – Plans for the Next Version” [1] was published by the SEI in August 2009. It stated that it will focus on (but not be limited to):

1.  High maturity.
2. More effective GPs.
3. Appraisal efficiency.  
4. Commonality across the constellations.

It also required that any changes to the CMMI Product Suite (i.e., model(s), training materials, and appraisal method) must meet the following primary criteria, which will likely do the following (also from [1]):

1. Correct identified model, training material, or appraisal method defects or provide enhancements.
2. Incorporate amplifications and clarifications as needed. 
3. Accommodate potential additions to model coverage (e.g., safety, security, and life cycle) only by specific direction of the CMMI Steering Group.
4. Decrease overall model size in V1.3 if possible; increases, if any, must not be greater than absolutely necessary.
5. Model and method changes should avoid adversely impacting the legacy investment of adopting companies and organizations.
6. Changes to model architecture will only be incorporated with specific CMMI Steering Group authorization.
7. Changes can only be initiated by Change Requests or by the CMMI Steering Group.
8. Editorial changes to training may be released in advance of V1.3.
9. Changes must not require retraining the nearly 100,000 (as of Dec. 2008) personnel already trained in CMMI. Upgrade training may be needed, especially for instructors, lead appraisers, and appraisal team members.

 Reference

Phillips, Mike. “CMMI Version 1.3—Plans for the Next Version.” News at SEI. 7 Aug. 2009 .