Standard CMMI Appraisal Method for Process Improvement (SCAMPI)

1.3.3 Prepare Team (continued)
Implementation
Guidance
Training in
the Appraisal
Method
Implementation
Guidance
Familiarization
with the
Appraisal Plan
A typical delivery of appraisal team training might take two-and-a-half to
three days. More or less time may be necessary depending on the relative
experience of the appraisal team members.
Exercises in appraisal techniques and team development are used to reinforce
the skills that will be important during conduct of the appraisal. It is
recommended that exercises be used that are appropriate for the
organizational unit being appraised. Where sufficient organizational artifacts
exist, “live” data can be collected and used in training exercises where
appropriate. Just-in-time training can also be used to re-emphasize method
concepts at appropriate points in the appraisal process during which the skills
will be utilized.
Appraisal team training materials should be tailored to fit team needs and
objectives of the specific appraisal. Tailoring provides opportunities to
• provide insight into the context, objectives, and plans of the particular
appraisal
• communicate team members’ assigned roles and responsibilities
• identify tailoring of SCAMPI for the upcoming appraisal
• acquaint the team with the organizational unit’s characteristics and
documentation
• focus on skills that may be more critical to the upcoming appraisal, such
as the ability to facilitate interviews or the ability to identify alternative
practices
It is recommended that this training be provided within 60 days of the
appraisal. The appraisal team leader typically provides method training, but
other delivery options are also acceptable (as described above). Although
alternative training options can provide some advantages and efficiencies for
method training, there are also potential consequences that might be felt by
the appraisal team leader on a given appraisal, such as poor training quality or
readiness of team members. Regardless of how method training is delivered to
the team members, opportunities for team building should be provided to
coalesce the team and bring the team up to speed on the specifics of the
appraisal being planned.
Method training and team building provide good opportunities to establish
team familiarity with the appraisal plan. This includes such items as appraisal
objectives, organizational scope, reference model scope, and the schedule,
resources, and constraints for conducting the appraisal. Team member input
can be obtained to refine or complete the contents of the appraisal plan.
Continued on next page
CMU/SEI-2001-HB-001
Page II-43