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Changing Software Contractor Selection Criteria

2001

At the beginning of the 21st century, the Capability Maturity Model Integration (CMMI) framework team published CMMI appraisal requirements, ushering in a new era for appraisals. In partnership with government and industry, the SEI published the Standard CMMI Appraisal Method for Process Improvement (SCAMPI), along with the specification for two other appraisal classes.

Later, the SEI developed SCAMPI B and C as a 100% community-funded project. Factors that might influence an organization's choice of a SCAMPI (A, B, or C) include cost, schedule, accuracy, efficiency, and desired results. SCAMPI continues to have a wide range of uses, including internal process improvement and external capability determinations.

The SEI's contribution also includes creating the SCAMPI Lead Appraiser role through the certification of lead appraisersĀ (500 as of 2013), based on the SCAMPI Lead Appraiser Body of Knowledge (SLA BOK).

SEI work on assessing/evaluating contractors led the DoD and other government acquisition organizations to change their criteria for selecting contractors. In awarding contracts, they consider how well the contractors' software development processes follow CMMI goals and practices.

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