Why CMMI?
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The Capability Maturity Model Integration ( CMMI ) model is being used extensively in the US and Europe to assist companies in countering risk when awarding tenders. Because CMMI rates the maturity of companies’ process, it gives a level of assurance that the company being given the work will be able to complete the job in the time and price quoted for the project.
In order for the local software development industry to become more competitive on a global scale, it will need to fall into line with international standards, so that local companies seeking international contracts will be able to meet the CMMI level specified by international companies.
There is also the aspect of self improvement. Companies will be able to use CMMI as a way of differentiating themselves locally and by achieving a level of CMMI will have naturally improved their processes which will make them more competitive.
However, realising that the CMMI process was an expensive one given that companies had to send employees on courses overseas or bring external consultants out to South Africa, the JCSE decided to bring CMMI to SA in 2006 and make it available to local companies at a much reduced price.