How many maturity levels are defined in the CMMI model?

The CMMI (Capability Maturity Model Integration) model defines five maturity levels, which serve as a framework for organizations to improve their processes. These maturity levels are:

1. Initial: Processes are unpredictable, poorly controlled, and reactive.

2. Managed: Processes are planned and executed in accordance with policy; projects employ skilled people and utilize approved plans.

3. Defined: Processes are well characterized and understood, and are described in standards, procedures, and methods.

4. Quantitatively Managed: The organization and projects establish quantitative objectives for quality and process performance and use them as criteria in managing projects.

5. Optimizing: Focus is on continuous process improvement; an organization continually improves its processes based on a quantitative understanding of its business objectives and performance needs.

These levels allow organizations to assess their maturity in process management, identify gaps, and implement improvements systematically. This structured approach aids in achieving better quality and efficiency in their processes. Understanding this framework is essential for leveraging CMMI in enhancing organizational performance.