Which method is NOT associated with process improvement in CMMI?

The choice of ignoring stakeholder feedback stands out as the option that is not associated with process improvement in CMMI. In the context of CMMI, process improvement emphasizes continuous enhancement of processes through the involvement and feedback of stakeholders.

Stakeholder feedback is a critical component of understanding needs, addressing concerns, and gaining insights into process effectiveness. Utilizing input from stakeholders allows organizations to identify areas for improvement, align processes with objectives, and implement changes that are more likely to be effective and accepted.

In contrast, process mapping, Pareto analysis, and root cause analysis are all recognized methods within CMMI for driving process improvements. Process mapping helps visualize workflows and identify inefficiencies, while Pareto analysis focuses on prioritizing issues based on their impact to make informed decisions on where to direct improvement efforts. Root cause analysis dives deep into problems to uncover underlying causes, enabling teams to address issues at their source, thereby facilitating more sustained improvements.

Overall, ignoring stakeholder feedback precludes the very foundation of understanding and enhancing processes, which is contrary to the principles of CMMI, making it the clear choice that does not align with process improvement strategies.