What does "institutionalization" mean in CMMI?

In the context of CMMI, "institutionalization" refers to the embedding of processes into the organizational culture and practices. This concept emphasizes the idea that processes should not just exist as formal guidelines or written documents; they must be integrated into the daily operations, beliefs, and behaviors of the organization. This ensures that processes become a fundamental part of how the organization functions, leading to consistent and repeatable performance.

When processes are institutionalized, they are understood, accepted, and followed by all members of the organization, promoting a sense of ownership and accountability. This integration is crucial for achieving long-term improvements in performance and helps the organization adapt to changes, maintain quality standards, and ensure continuous process improvement. Institutionalization enhances not only the effectiveness of processes but also their sustainability over time.

The other options suggest incorrect interpretations of institutionalization. For example, eliminating all processes would undermine the framework CMMI seeks to establish, while creating new teams solely for process development does not guarantee that existing processes are embedded in the culture. Similarly, outsourcing operational processes does not necessarily contribute to institutionalization, as it can lead to a disconnect between organizational culture and its operational practices.