Standard CMMI Appraisal Method for Process Improvement (SCAMPI)

2.4.3a Determine Capability Profile
Activity
Description
Required
Practices
Parameters
and Limits
Optional
Practices
Implementation
Guidance
When using the continuous representation of a CMMI model, the team may
determine a Capability Profile that graphically depicts the capability level
ratings assigned to each PA within the scope of the appraisal. The generation
of a Capability Profile is an optional activity, selected at the discretion of the
appraisal sponsor and documented in the appraisal input.
Generate a Capability Profile depicting the capability level attained for each
PA within the scope of the appraisal, if this rating option was selected during
planning.
A simple bar chart is used for this display. Each PA is represented in a single
bar along the horizontal axis, and the vertical axis represents the capability
level dimension. The height of each bar communicates the capability level of
the PA represented.
Capability levels take only the values 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5. Intermediate values
(e.g., 2.7) are not defined for this appraisal outcome, and any embellishment
of the Capability Profile with such values is outside the boundaries of
SCAMPI.
A profile to summarize the satisfaction of goals may be created to provide
further insight about the rating outcomes. In situations where a PA capability
level rating does not reflect the desired outcome, this more detailed view may
provide focus and visibility at a lower level of detail.
CMMI provides for equivalent staging, whereby a Capability Profile can be
used to derive an equivalent maturity level rating (see activity 2.4.3b,
Determine Maturity Level).
A presentation template referred to as a Capability Profile is typically used to
communicate the aggregate level rating results to the sponsor and others
designated by the sponsor.
Comparing different PAs with respect to their relative capability level ratings
may be informative in discussing trends or patterns in the organization.
This activity may be omitted entirely, as it is a tailoring option. If a Capability
Profile is to be derived, the ratings reflected in the profile are derived as
described in activity 2.4.2b, Determine Process Area Capability Level.
CMU/SEI-2001-HB-001
Page II-119