CMMI for Acquisition, Version 1.2 - Release Notes
November 1, 2007
The Carnegie Mellon® Software Engineering Institute (SEI) proudly announces the release of CMMI® for Acquisition (CMMI-ACQ), Version 1.2, a CMMI model designed for use in managing a supply chain by those who acquire, procure, or otherwise select and purchase products and services for business purposes. This model is a continuation of work to define best practices for organizations that acquire products and services or outsource development and support, which was work begun in a partnership between General Motors and the SEI.
The Model
CMMI-ACQ provides guidance to acquisition organizations for initiating and managing the acquisition of products and services that meet the needs of the customer. The model focuses on acquirer processes and integrates bodies of knowledge that are essential for successful acquisitions.
CMMI-ACQ provides an opportunity for acquisition organizations
- To avoid or eliminate barriers and problems in the acquisition process through improved operational efficiencies
- To initiate and manage a process for acquiring products and services, including solicitations, supplier sourcing, supplier agreement development and award, and supplier capability management
- To utilize a common language for both acquirers and suppliers so that quality solutions are delivered more quickly and at a lower cost with the most appropriate technology
CMMI-ACQ and CMMI for Development (CMMI-DEV) have many similarities and complement each other. As CMMI-ACQ is used by the acquirer, CMMI-DEV may be used by the supplier. The terminology, structure, and many practices are shared by these two models.
Training
The SEI will provide training that supports CMMI-ACQ. Initially, prerequisites for this training include the successful completion of the Introduction to CMMI, V1.2 course that now covers CMMI-DEV, V1.2. The new course builds on the solid foundation in the workings of CMMI models and describes the best practices that the acquirer will find useful. The SEI will also provide a limited number of offerings of a course that addresses both development and acquisition areas of interest prior to the release of an integrated course in 2008.
The Appraisal Method
The Standard CMMI Appraisal Method for Process Improvement (SCAMPISM) is an appraisal method designed to evaluate an organization’s processes using a CMMI model, including CMMI-ACQ. This method is applicable to serve a wide range of purposes, including internal process improvement and external capability determinations. SCAMPI A appraisals are officially recognized appraisals that result in benchmark quality ratings (e.g., maturity levels). SCAMPI B & C appraisals are designed to provide organizations with improvement information that is less formal than the results of a SCAMPI A.
The current SCAMPI appraisal method is applicable to version 1.2 of CMMI-ACQ and CMMI-DEV models. However, no SCAMPI A appraisals using CMMI-ACQ will be accepted by the SEI for the first six months after the model’s release. In other words, none of these appraisals will be accepted until May 1, 2008. Other classes of appraisals (SCAMPI B&C) may be used during the first six months to monitor process improvement progress.
SCAMPI A appraisals are conducted by SEI-authorized lead appraisers. SEI Partners—organizations authorized by the SEI that have lead appraisers on staff—can be hired to perform both informal and formal appraisals. SCAMPI Lead AppraisersSM undergo rigorous classroom instruction, testing, and observations before becoming authorized by the SEI. For those who wish to be appraised at a higher maturity (levels 4 or 5), only Certified High Maturity Lead Appraisers may conduct the appraisal.
CMMI-ACQ V1.2 is the result of the combined efforts of industry, government, and the SEI. It was sponsored by the CMMI Steering Group and is based on work done by General Motors and the CMMI Product Team.
Although this model is the initial release of the CMMI-ACQ model, the version number is "V1.2." The reason for this version number is to indicate that this model is consistent with and complements CMMI-DEV, V1.2.
If you have questions or comments, send email to cmmi-comments@sei.cmu.edu.
