Do you actually need a Class A appraisal?

The most expensive question in CMMI is buying the wrong appraisal class.

When you need Class A (Benchmark)

When a contract, solicitation, or customer requires a published Maturity Level rating. Only the Benchmark produces one. If the requirement says “CMMI ML3,” this is what it means — budget $30,000–$100,000+ for the appraisal alone.

When Class B is the right answer

When you need a rigorous diagnostic: preparing for a future Benchmark, satisfying an internal governance gate, or giving a prime customer credible evidence of progress. At $10,000–$40,000, it's the standard dress rehearsal — and the best insurance against failing the Benchmark.

When Class C is enough

Early-stage gap checks: “how far are we, really?” At $5,000–$15,000, it's the cheapest way to size the real program before committing to it. Smart buyers run one before signing any implementation engagement.

The trap

Buying a Class B hoping the customer accepts it as a rating. It won't — customers check the CMMI Institute's published results. Match the class to what the buyer actually requires, in writing.