CMMI appraisal classes: Benchmark (A) vs B vs C
Three appraisal classes, three different jobs. Only one produces the rating your contracts ask for — the other two exist to make sure you earn it.
| Class C | Class B | Class A (Benchmark) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Produces | Gap findings | Detailed diagnostic findings | Official Maturity Level rating, published by the CMMI Institute |
| Typical cost band | $5k–$15k | $10k–$40k | $30k–$100k+ |
| When to use it | Early sanity check: “how far are we?” | Pre-appraisal checkpoint: “will we pass?” | The real thing: contract requirement |
| Evidence rigor | Light | Moderate | Full — examined artifacts + interviews |
Cost bands: published industry breakdowns (see cost guide sources). Your scope moves the number.
The sequencing that works
- Class C early. Cheap reality check 6–9 months out — sizes the real program.
- Implement. Close the gaps the Class C found: document, measure, run projects under the processes.
- Class B as a dress rehearsal. 4–8 weeks before the Benchmark — same rigor shape, findings you can still fix.
- Class A (Benchmark). The rating event. Walk in with the B's findings closed and evidence organized.
Scope all three at once. Matched partners quote the Class C, B, and Benchmark as a program — usually cheaper than buying them separately.
Get program quotesFrequently asked
Which appraisal class gives me a Maturity Level rating?
Only Class A (Benchmark). Class B and C are diagnostic checkpoints — valuable preparation, but they produce findings, not a published rating.
Should I do a Class B before the Class A?
In most cases, yes. A Class B finds the gaps while there's still time and budget to fix them. Organizations that skip it are the ones most likely to fail the Class A — and pay for remediation plus a re-check.
Can the same firm do our Class B and Class A?
Often yes, but consider separation: the firm that helped you implement shouldn't be the one rating the result, for credibility. Many organizations use a consulting partner for prep and an independent Lead Appraiser for the Benchmark.
Quote the full program
Class C + B + Benchmark, scoped as one program by matched partners. Free, 2 minutes.
How it works: tell us once (4 questions, 2 min) → we match CMMI appraisal partners to your target level, size, and timeline → they send scoped quotes directly. Free, no obligation.