In CMMI, what is a potential consequence of not addressing risks adequately?

In the context of CMMI (Capability Maturity Model Integration), addressing risks adequately is essential for the successful delivery of projects. When risks are not managed properly, the likelihood of project failure significantly increases. This is primarily because unaddressed risks can lead to unforeseen issues, such as scope creep, missed deadlines, budget overruns, and quality problems. These issues can hamper the project's progress and may ultimately result in the project not meeting its objectives or failing altogether.

Moreover, risk management is crucial for planning and decision-making processes throughout the project lifecycle. A failure to identify, assess, and mitigate risks can lead to an accumulation of issues that can overwhelm the project team and impact their ability to deliver on time and within budget. Additionally, without proper risk management, stakeholders may lose confidence in the organization’s ability to deliver successful outcomes, further compounding the likelihood of project failure.

In summary, effectively addressing risks is integral to maintaining project integrity and success in the CMMI framework, and neglecting this responsibility can lead to severe negative consequences, including an increased likelihood of project failure.