In conjunction with the development of the CMMI, the SEI has developed a new method for assessing the software maturity of an organization.  This method, the Standard CMMI Appraisal Method for Process Improvement (SCAMPI^SM) is replacing the former CBA IPI assessment method.  Led by a SCAMPI Lead Appraiser^SM, and conducted with the close participation of client staff, a SCAMPI Appraisal will provide an in-depth look at your organization’s software development and management practices.

The results of the SCAMPI appraisal and the corresponding recommendations will form the basis for action planning and process improvement.

SMS will provide a Lead Appraiser-led, value-added SCAMPI Appraisal for a client while assisting in specific activities such as:

• Meeting with the software director and sponsor (a senior manager) prior to the appraisal
• Conducting team training for the internal team members
• Ensuring that appropriate technical briefings for the team members occur
• Providing any required pre-appraisal briefings
• Focusing on the issues that drive performance
• Using every opportunity available to help management and development personnel understand 
   the business value of the appraisal and the processes being assessed
• Providing in-depth draft findings and final findings which can serve as the basis for a detailed action plan
• Providing post-appraisal on-site support

There are 3 classes of SCAMPI Appraisals aimed at providing the appropriate level of appraisal for an organization depending on its degree of readiness for formal assessment:

A SCAMPI CLASS C appraisal is typically used to determine if an organization’s process improvement initiative is on the right track. This appraisal requires at least one of the three types of evidence (i.e., affirmations, indirect artifacts, or direct artifacts).

A SCAMPI CLASS B appraisal is typically used to determine if an organization is ready for a formal, Class A appraisal.  Requires at least two types of evidence to be available.

A SCAMPI CLASS A appraisal.  This is the highest level of appraisal an organization can have.  It is the only class of SCAMPI appraisal which results in a determination of the maturity or capability levels of the organization’s processes.  An organization may voluntarily request of the SEI that the maturity results be made publicly available. This appraisal requires all three types of evidence to be available.

Prior to undertaking a SCAMPI appraisal, your organization may wish to utilize a Mini-Appraisal from SMS, which can be especially cost-effective in the earlier stages of process improvement.