- Level 1 – Characterized by chaos, periodic panics, and heroic efforts required by individuals to successfully complete projects. Few if any processes in place; successes may not be repeatable.
- Level 2 – Software project tracking, requirements management, realistic planning, and configuration management processes are in place; successful practices can be repeated.
- Level 3 – Standard software development and maintenance processes are integrated throughout an organization; a Software Engineering Process Group is in place to oversee software processes, and training programs are used to ensure understanding and compliance.
- Level 4 – Metrics are used to track productivity, processes, and products. Project performance is predictable, and quality is consistently high.
- Level 5 – The focus is on continuous process improvement. The impact of new processes and technologies can be predicted and effectively implemented when required.
