Maturity level guide

CMMI Maturity Level 1 — Initial

Processes are ad hoc and chaotic. Success depends on heroes, not systems. Organizations at ML1 can still deliver — they just can't promise to do it the same way twice.

What it looks like in practice

  • No defined processes
  • Success depends on individuals
  • Schedule and budget overruns common

Who targets ML1?

Nobody targets ML1; it's the honest starting point for an appraisal baseline.

Targeting ML1? Get scoped quotes from Lead Appraisers authorized for this level — ML4/ML5 require High Maturity authorization.

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ML2 — Managed →

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