CMMI(R): Guidelines for Process Integration and Product Improvement (2nd Edition) (The SEI Series in Software Engineering)

Book Description

CMMI® (Capability Maturity Model® Integration) describes best practices for the development and maintenance of products and services across their entire lifecycle. By integrating essential bodies of knowledge, CMMI provides a single, comprehensive framework for organizations to assess their development and maintenance processes, implement improvements, and measure progress.

This book is a definitive reference for the most current release of CMMI (version 1.2). In the new edition, the authors have added tips, hints, and cross-references in the margins (in color) throughout the process areas to help you better understand, apply, and find more information about the content of the process areas. The book also now includes brief, insightful perspectives on CMMI written by people influential in the model’s creation, development, and transition. A new case study from Raytheon illustrates a real-world application of the model to a services organization. Whether you are new to CMMI or familiar with an earlier version, if you need to know about, evaluate, or put the latest version of CMMI into practice, this book is an essential resource.

The book is divided into three parts.

Part I offers the broad view of CMMI, beginning with basic concepts of process improvement. It describes the process areas, their components, and their relationships to each other. It explains the model’s two representations as well as paths to the adoption and use of CMMI for process improvement and benchmarking.

Part II, the bulk of the book, details the generic goals and practices and the twenty-two process areas now comprising CMMI. The process areas are organized alphabetically by acronym for easy look-up. Each chapter includes goals, best practices, and examples for a particular process area. The two CMMI representations are described so that you will easily see their similarities and differences and thereby be better able to choose the right approach for your organization.

Part III contains several useful resources, including CMMI-related references, acronym definitions, a glossary of terms, and an index.

Customer Reviews:

exactly as mentioned in the product description.......2007-08-09

i bought this product and it was exactly as mentioned in the product description before buying this product. the shipping was fast too and care was taken to ship the product carefully.

all in all a good and a trustworthy deal.

A wonderful yet dangerous Model.......2007-07-20

Much like the King James Bible and the Anarchist's Cookbook this book is dangerous in the wrong hands. When used properly the Model is a highly effective tool for measuring organizational maturity and for developing an organizational maturity roadmap. In the wrong hands it can actually hurt an organization. Typically this harm is manifested either by process wonks who zealously accept the Model at face value rather than interpreting it for their organization or by senior management and sales reps who don't understand the model and see maturity levels only as a means for business winning. I think this is a great Model, just remember, if you are going to use it, make sure your organizational needs drive your interpretation of model and not the other way around. And for all that is good and Holy, please read the entire book (specifically the section on Process Components)!

excellent reading.......2007-05-12

Gives an overview of the CMMI in the beginning and followed by detailed discussions. Ideal read for people to new to CMMI

An invaluable reference........2007-02-03

CMMI translates to Capability Maturity Model Integration and describes a set of recommended practices for developing and maintaining products throughout their life cycle, not just at the beginning. Its components include a basic overview of structure and idea, then a survey of the goals and practices of the 22 process areas comprising CMMI. The authors are part of a team central to CMMI development, so their technical combined knowledge offers advanced college-level computer holdings an invaluable reference.

CMMI Second Edition.......2007-01-15

Much easier to use than the first edition. Should be more helpful to a beginner to the CMMI process.

CMMI Distilled: A Practical Introduction to Integrated Process Improvement, Second Edition

Average customer rating:

Excellent read for an overview of ÇMMI.
Not for me, I'm afraid
Read it with a manager's mindset
Introduction - yes, implementation - no
A summary of CMMI, not a practical introduction

CMMI Distilled: A Practical Introduction to Integrated Process Improvement, Second Edition
Dennis M. Ahern , Aaron Clouse , and Richard Turner
Manufacturer: Addison-Wesley Professional
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Real Process Improvement Using the CMMI
CMMI(R) Assessments : Motivating Positive Change (SEI Series in Software Engineering)

ASIN: 0321186133

Customer Reviews:

Excellent read for an overview of ÇMMI........2007-07-15

This book is easy to read and well organized and provides a great overview of CMMI. A good choice for those wanting to acquire a working knowledge in a short period of time.

Not for me, I'm afraid.......2006-12-26

Many words, but not too practical. Definitions are fine, but that could have happened in 50 pages. This book basically consists of bureacratic motherhood. I will now look for a book written by someone who has actually managed a project to see what his book says about practical application of CMMI.

I wish I could remember the name of the author of a book I read several years ago on SEI processes, which provided excellent guidelines for projects. The author was very explicit and provided examples. He also stated in the Foreword that, though the book contained a great deal of excellent and useful information, if you tried to do everything in the book, you would fail. That may have been the most important line he wrote, since it implied that common sense was still the most important ingredient to meaningful process.

Read it with a manager's mindset.......2006-05-19

CMMI is an acronym for Capability Maturity Model Integration, and is almost totally an area of management. Therefore, if you read this book with a mindset that is anything other than that of a manager, it will bore you and you may question the practicality of CMMI. When I say this, I am thinking of software developers, who will most likely consider some of what they read to be impediments to the true ways in which software is created.
As a set of objectives designed to improve quality, the basic tenets and activities mandated by the CMMI model are applicable to many other areas of business and organizations. This book is written for people unfamiliar with model-based processes and is non-technical, so very little is needed in the way of background knowledge. It is very appropriate for the manager who is considering adopting a CMMI model. Not only does it provide the essential background information, but also explains how to begin and execute the implementation of CMMI.
Like all other processes designed to improve quality, the most essential precondition is the desire to improve. No book can provide that ingredient. However, this one provides the essential knowledge about CMMI and I strongly recommend that all managers read it carefully. Even if your decision is to not implement CMMI, the knowledge that you will obtain will force you to rethink your current strategies and no doubt improve them.

Introduction - yes, implementation - no.......2005-11-17

This book is useful to those who are fairly well-versed in CMMI. For me, this is by far the best "reference" material, since it is concise, and it consolidates separate points into a table or a 1-pager with diagrams, making it easier to digest and understand. This is especially so when compared with the thick (700+ pages) big (A4 size) tome official guidebook from SEI. I could easily take Ahern onto the plane / train for quick brush-up on particular process areas. I would recommend this book to those who had already gained some CMMI knowledge, and would need a light handbook for quick reference.

A summary of CMMI, not a practical introduction.......2004-08-26

I bought the book thinking it would be a practical introduction on how to apply CMMI to your company hence I was very disappointed to find out the authors have limited themselves only to summarize the CMMI models. Few real explication is given about concepts within the CMMI models, neither any real life experience is shared that could help you implement CMMI.

CMMI(R) Assessments : Motivating Positive Change (SEI Series in Software Engineering)

Average customer rating:

CMMI(R) Assessments : Motivating Positive Change (SEI Series in Software Engineering)
Marilyn Bush , and Donna Dunaway
Manufacturer: Addison-Wesley Professional
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0321179358

CMMI(R) Survival Guide: Just Enough Process Improvement (The SEI Series in Software Engineering)

Average customer rating:

Far more readable and effective than other process books...
Getting and recognizing benefit from process improvement
a brief overview of CMMI

CMMI(R) Survival Guide: Just Enough Process Improvement (The SEI Series in Software Engineering)
Suzanne Garcia , and Richard Turner
Manufacturer: Addison-Wesley Professional
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Real Process Improvement Using the CMMI

ASIN: 0321422775

Book Description

Praise for CMMI® Survival Guide

"Traveling down the CMMI road can be difficult and time-consuming. Garcia and Turner have given us a practical roadmap that addresses the key points to learn as well as the many potholes to avoid. Their Survival Guide is a most valuable resource for the journey. It will help immeasurably in achieving the process improvement that you seek."

—Dr. Howard Eisner, Distinguished Research Professor, George Washington University

"Helps you get to the 'red meat' of the CMMI quickly and with minimum pain."

—Donald J. Reifer, President, Reifer Consultants, Inc.

"The best words I can offer potential readers is that you must have this book, not on your shelf, but with you for repeated reading to glean new ideas or reinforce old ones you gained from the past readings. If you have ever been directly involved in a process improvement initiative or if you are starting one, this book can only help you to do a better job. And while [the authors] may not have written this book explicitly for experienced consultants, I found it a great reference even for those of us who helped start this industry, because it provides clear and useful answers to those tough questions we are asked all of the time."

—Tim Kasse, CEO and Principal Consultant, Kasse Initiatives LLC

"This book contains practical (working) tips for the 'getting started' phase of process improvement, which is the hardest one in the road to improving one's processes."

—Agapi Svolou, Principal of Alexanna, LLC, and SEI CMMI Transition Partner

"The authors have done an outstanding job in providing guidance for process improvement from a practical perspective. Instead of focusing on a single technique or approach, they have provided a variety of methods for process improvement implementation and have framed their discussion with rich context from lessons learned. The concepts described in this book will be useful to both those starting CMMI implementations and to those who are well into their journey but are still looking for ways to lessen the pain and provide value-added improvements. Reading the book is like being in the audience during a live presentation by SuZ and Rich—they wrote the book as they would present the information to a live audience."

—Bill Craig, Director, Software Engineering Directorate, AMRDEC, RDECOM

"I have been involved in process improvement since the early 90's and many of the mistakes that I made could have been prevented if this book had been available then."

—Claude Y. Laporte, Professor, ETS Universite du Quebec

"Primarily, the book is practical. The guidance presented is geared toward someone who is not exactly sure why they need process improvement, but is presented with the fact that they must do it. Very often these are smaller organizations, with limited resources, and uncertain support from above. As I read the book, I thought almost immediately of a couple of organizations with which I am familiar who could use this kind of tutelage. There are real, and useful, techniques in this book that I believe can help these kinds of organizations prioritize and establish reasonable plans for improving the processes in the organization. I also like the sidebars and personal observations. Discussions of experience can really help organizations through the various pitfalls that are part of developing and deploying processes. It makes the book more of a 'real life' guide, and not a theoretical exercise. Finally, the book is an enjoyable read. The conversational style of the book (and the humor) make it much easier to read than many of the books I have read in the past."

—Alexander Stall, Principal Process Improvement Engineer, Systems and Software Consortium

The CMMI provides a framework for process improvement spanning the life cycle of a product or service, from conception through delivery and maintenance. Widely and beneficially adopted around the world, the size and apparent complexity of the framework have nonetheless been daunting to some organizations. That need not be so. With a proper guide to help navigate around unknown dangers, potential pitfalls, and false paths, you too, can realize substantial business value from a successful CMMI implementation. This book is such a guide, full of the real-life examples to ease your way, and written in a lighter style to ease your reading.

The CMMI® Survival Guide is an effective resource for multiple readerships. If you are just now considering a process improvement program, with the CMMI among your options, the authors' discussion of relevant issues will enhance your business case right from the start. If you have already decided to implement the CMMI, the authors' practical knowledge will help you make the most of your efforts. Even if you are well into a CMMI implementation, but are lost, stuck, or going around in circles, the authors' valuable advice will help you regain your direction.

If you work in a smaller or resource-strapped organization, you will particularly benefit from the authors' description of alternative paths to process improvement—approaches that are more incremental or agile, and less intensive, than you might imagine for a CMMI implementation. The authors draw on their extensive experience working with diverse organizations, and on the CMMI tools, techniques, and templates developed for those organizations.

Whatever your background or need, the CMMI® Survival Guide will help you survey the CMMI territory, consult possible road maps, learn from other CMMI explorers, weigh the benefits of hiring a living guide, and even consider whether the trip is right for you.

Customer Reviews:

Far more readable and effective than other process books..........2007-04-08

I've been exposed to a number of process improvement methodologies throughout my career, as well as read a number of books that try to explain them. To be honest, it's not a subject that's high on my "can't wait to read" list. But were more books styled like CMMI Survival Guide: Just Enough Process Improvement by Suzanne Garcia and Richard Turner, I would probably be more inclined to give them a chance. This book covers what you need to know without all of the mind-numbing jargon and detail...

Contents:
Part 1 - Scouting the Territory: Why We Think Process Is Important; Why Process Improvement Helps; Why Process Improvement Isn't Trivial
Part 2 - Mapping the Route: CMMI As Your Guide; A Decision-based Life Cycle for Improvement
Part 3 - Surviving the Passage: A PI Case Study; Survival and PI
Part 4 - Experiencing the Journey: Developing and Sustaining Sponsorship; Setting and Measuring Against Realistic Goals; Managing an Appraisal Life Cycle; Developing Process Improvement Infrastructure; Defining Processes; Looking Ahead
Part 5 - Outfitting Your Expedition (PI Resources): Tools and Techniques
Bibliography; Index

The basic direction of the authors is to talk to the reader like they were actually there, and to simplify CMMI so that it can be grasped and understood. And when you place a traditionally process-heavy methodology like CMMI up against agile methodologies like Extreme Programming, you realize just what a task the authors have taken on. Surprisingly, they pull it off pretty well. Part 1 lays the foundation for why a business or organization needs to have some sort of process improvement plan in place. The larger the organization is, the more important it becomes. Then using CMMI as the framework, part 2 covers the main topics of just what makes up the process improvement effort. Part 3 is where the application of the process becomes concrete. They use an easily-understandable case study that takes concepts and applies them to actual situations. That's usually where the large "formal" books fail. You can stuff as much information into your head as you want, but until it gets applied, it's pretty useless. Part 4 goes into more details of how the process works on an ongoing basis, followed by the actual tools and techniques that come into play for CMMI (part 5). By the end, you've covered everything you need to know (and you haven't poked your eyeballs out in frustration).

While this might not be the "official" guide to a methodology, it's far more readable and applicable than books three times its size. And if you can read and understand the material, you have a far better chance of making it actually work...

Getting and recognizing benefit from process improvement.......2007-02-23

An easy to read book about using an abstract model: this is quite a feat. This is the book I'd write about improving processes, if I had the time, the talent, the motivation, etc. I've been doing this improvement work for many years, occasionally with the authors, and it is gratifying to see that they've captured so many good practices and useful ideas and shared them in an accessible, friendly way.
Many different fields use CMMI as a standard, to decide about improvement planning, to gauge their results, to convince customers they are reliable. This book shows the way around the pit-falls, points out the poison-ivy patches, and can help people find their way to the benefits of process improvement.
Of course CMMI for Development can be daunting: it describes professional engineering and engineering management practices in enough detail to be used in several ways by different communities. Finally, it isn't CMMI that drives people to disappointing improvement results. Mistakes in judging how easy it is to get people to change or even to describe their way of doing things often have led to "heavy" process implementations, as change agents add more and more detail hoping it will get people to use the processes. Or, mistaking how fast processes can be implemented can lead to mandated processes that work well for no one.
The authors have accurately described how to find your "main, broad road" to the benefits of improvements, and the many factors that you have to consider that will lead you there. Now I don't have to write this book. I'll give it to our customer's managers and their process engineers and be confident that they can get good direction from it: we now have a rich resource of techniques, stories, and directions that we can refer to in our projects.
Okay, some criticism: the techniques described in the last chapters are very effective, but have to be approached with discipline as well as a fun-finding mind-set, so they may not work for everyone. But that's one of the good things about the book- the authors say that few improvements work exactly the way you want, the very first time. Honest and useful advice.

a brief overview of CMMI.......2006-11-03

Garcia and Turner address a widely held concern about adopting CMMI. That it is overly heavy, with much to assimilate before a group of programmers can usefully apply it. Well ok, CMMI can be used for more than just software development. But as a practical matter, most of its users and proposed users are in that business. The book is perhaps also a reaction to the Agile process. The latter is in some ways the mirror image of CMMI, with short design and coding cycles.

The book gives a relatively quick walkthrough of CMMI. A broad picture about using CMMI to improve your development process. En route, it also discusses general topics like project management issues, which are not exclusive to CMMI. The entire text is really just a primer for CMMI. It shows that CMMI has many subtopics, and the procedures involved can be rather detailed. Adding up to a formidable total barrier for the newcomer. But the text does supply enough information to give an appreciation of what CMMI can do for you, and the concepts to be mastered.

Of all the chapters, I found Chapter 11 to be the most formidable. It seems to give the strongest indicator of the amount of material in CMMI. Just consider the O process areas within CMMI. "You'll need people who can implement the practices in Organisational Process Focus, Organisational Process Definition, Organisational Training, Organisational Innovation and Deployment and (eventually) Organisational Process Performance". Whew! And the chapter goes on to give more information about what these might entail. No wonder some might baulk at CMMI.

Practical Support for CMMI-SW Software Project Documentation Using IEEE Software Engineering Standards

Average customer rating:

Practical Support for CMMI-SW Software Project Documentation Using IEEE Software Engineering Standards
Susan K. Land , and John W. Walz
Manufacturer: Wiley-IEEE Computer Society Pr
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ASIN: 0471738492

Book Description

Software process definition, documentation, and improvement should be an integral part of every software engineering organization. This book addresses the specific documentation requirements in support of the CMMI-SW ^® by providing detailed documentation guidance in the form of:

Detailed organizational policy examples.
An Integrated set of over 20 deployable document templates.
Examples of over 50 common work products required in support of assessment activities.
Examples of organizational delineation of process documentation.

This book provides a set of IEEE Software Engineering Standards-based templates that support the documentation required for all activities associated with software development projects. The goal is to provide practical support for individuals responsible for the development and documentation of software processes and procedures. The objective is to present the reader with an integrated set of documents that support the requirements of the CMMI-SW ^® Levels 2 and 3. This book is meant to both complement and extend the information provided in Jumpstart CMM ^® /CMMI ^® Software Process Improvement Using IEEE Software Engineering Standards. Jumpstart provides a detailed mapping of both the CMM ^® and the CMMI-SW ^® to the IEEE standards set and provides a logical basis for the material contained within this text.

It is hoped that this book will provide specific support for organizations pursuing software process definition and improvement. For organizations that do not wish to pursue CMMI ^® accreditation, this document will show how the application of IEEE Standards can facilitate the development of sound software engineering practices. It also comes with a CD-Rom.

Interpreting the CMMI: A Process Improvement Approach
Average customer rating:

simple statistical methods

Complete, consistent with SEI & realistic

A Practical Approach with lots of good ideas

Great recommendations in this book

This IS a Rehash of the CMMI v 1.1 document

Interpreting the CMMI: A Process Improvement Approach
Margaret Kulpa , and Kent A. Johnson
Manufacturer: AUERBACH
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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CMMI Distilled: A Practical Introduction to Integrated Process Improvement, Second Edition

CMMI(R) Survival Guide: Just Enough Process Improvement (The SEI Series in Software Engineering)

ASIN: 0849316545

Book Description

Written by experienced process improvement professionals who have developed and implemented systems in organizations around the world, Interpreting the CMMI®: A Process Improvement Approach provides you with specific techniques for performing process improvement using the CMMI® and the family of CMM models. Kulpa and Johnson describe the fundamental concepts of the CMMI® model - goals, practices, architecture, and definitions - in everyday language, give real-world examples, and provide a structured approach for implementing the concepts of the CMMI® into any organization. They walk you through the myriad charts and graphs involved in statistical process control and offer recommendations for which tools to use. The book covers roles and responsibilities, people issues, how to generate meaningful documentation, how to overcome resistance to change, and how to track the success of your efforts. It provides examples of plans, policies, processes, procedures, and team charters. The appendices include matrices summarizing the different assessment techniques that have now been approved by the SEI for use, "pros and cons" associated with this model, some of the myths that have arisen from the marketing of the CMMI® effort, and forms and templates. The book comes with a CD-ROM that contains forms and templates that can be downloaded and customized. The authors distill the knowledge gained in their combined 60 years of experience in project management, software engineering, systems engineering, metrics, quality assurance, configuration management, training, documentation, process improvement, and team building. Whether you are new to process improvement or an experienced professional, Interpreting the CMMI®: A Process Improvement Approach saves you time wasted on false starts, false promises by marketers, and failed deadlines.

Customer Reviews:

simple statistical methods.......2006-05-15

This book might have been written in part out of dissatifaction with existing texts on CMMI. Those might have been perceived by some of their readers as lacking sufficient practical details about implementation.

As CMMI has gained more traction, and experience was developed in it by Kulpa and Johnson, they have shared this here. Some sections are a little elementary. Like the chapter on statistical process control. Its level of detail is suggested by how basic techniques like a histogram or scatterplot are explained. Statisticians may cringe at the simple tone. But the book is directed towards a broader audience of managers and engineers.

Complete, consistent with SEI & realistic.......2004-03-22

If you want to truly understand the CMMI, its benefits, and a frank discussion of the challenges you'll encounter when implementing it, this book is worth its weight in gold.

First, it distills all of the information you can freely download from SEI (see ASIN B0000Y4PCA) into a more manageable volume that is sequenced for understanding both the CMMI and how to implement it. While the SEI documentation is complete and comprehensive, it is also information overload.

Second, this book does not conflict with SEI's documentation. In addition to being consistent with it, it also provides assessment and implementation techniques that SEI developed and recommends, such as the Standard CMMI Appraisal Method for Process Improvement (SCAMPI).

Third, this book comes with a CD ROM with checklists and templates that will greatly aid in implementation.

The book is structured into three parts - (1) an introduction, which is fairly generic, (2) a detailed description of CMMI process areas for levels 2-5, and (3) an implementation approach that is complete and realistic. I like the fact that the challenges of implementing CMMI are covered, as well as a sensible discussion of whether the CMMI is right for your organization. This is a nice contrast with books that proclaim the CMMI to be absolutely necessary without regard to business and organizational realities.

Material in the 17 appendices add further value to this book. In addition to the checklists and templates, this collected information also discusses metrics and related topics that did not merit a chapter in the body of the book. If you are implementing the CMMI you'll find this book to be a perfect resource in the discovery and elaboration phases of the project, and an excellent guide during the implementation.

A Practical Approach with lots of good ideas.......2003-10-07

I am the SPI lead in a company that recently has achieved the CMMI Maturity Level 4 rating. This book has helped us a lot to obtain better understanding of the model requirements, make important decisions, plan and implement process improvement activities. Thanks to it we avoided many mistakes and saved a lot of time and effort. The CD which is enclosed with the book contains useful templates, checklists and sample documents many of which we adopted. The book was especially helpful in implementing Statistical Process Management concepts, specifically in developing process performance models. It is very easy to read and understand, very practical, and I recommend it to anyone involved in process improvement activities.

Great recommendations in this book.......2003-10-03

I am the Project Manager of my company's Software Process Improvement team. My company is transitioning from CMM Level 3 to CMMI Maturity Level 4. I found this book to very helpful and practical. While the CMMI gives you little guidance, this book gives you a lot of direction and help in how to implement CMMI in your organization. The book begins by summarizing the CMMI. It then continues by giving direction and guidance about HOW to structure your process improvement efforts. It contains templates for plans, processes, procedures, policies, and charters. While the book presents examples, it does not pretend to do all the work for you.

Especially, I like the chapters about understanding the maturity levels (chapter 5 to 8). The most important concepts and points of the model are nicely emphasized. We have found great value in the chapters concerning Metrics, Statistical Process Control and the high-maturity stuff (Chapter 16 to 18). Furthermore, we are using several chapters in this book as read ahead material for our training classes. I would recommend this book to anyone at any stage of process improvement.

This IS a Rehash of the CMMI v 1.1 document.......2003-09-12

As the lead in implementing CMMI within my organization I was very disappointed in the contents of this book. It is simply a rehash of the information in the CMMI-SE/SW/IPPD/SS V1.1 that is available for FREE on the CMMI website. I found no wisdom from the authors on how to actually implement the processes and be successful with an assessment. The included CD simply includes the incomplete tables and checklists that are included as appendices (and make up about half of the book by the way). My recommendation is to save you money and read the CMMI documents.

Average customer rating:

Common sense book not only for CMMI
Gutsy and Honest approach to Process Improvement!
Unexpected gem - read before leaping!

Real Process Improvement Using the CMMI
Michael West
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Interpreting the CMMI: A Process Improvement Approach
CMMI(R): Guidelines for Process Integration and Product Improvement (2nd Edition) (The SEI Series in Software Engineering)
CMMI Distilled: A Practical Introduction to Integrated Process Improvement, Second Edition
Process Improvement Essentials: CMMI, Six Sigma, and ISO 9001
CMMI(R) Survival Guide: Just Enough Process Improvement (The SEI Series in Software Engineering)

ASIN: 0849321093

Book Description

Real Process Improvement Using the CMMI presents readers with non-academic, real-world approaches to process improvement via CMMI. The author provides concepts and techniques for CMMI-based process improvement which are as effective as they are innovative. Professionals at all levels from system engineers to CEOs will find a wealth of practical guidance and new ways to look at model-based process improvement that have already benefited large and small organizations in a variety of environments. Using plain language and enlightening illustrations, the author identifies the most critical concepts of the CMMI, and explains how to turn those concepts into real process improvement. This book provides you with key information that will significantly benefit all CMMI process improvement efforts. Topics include: · Ways to discover and understand the business goals and drivers for successful process improvement initiatives · How to recognize the structures and practices many organizations already have in place that can accelerate process improvement, even before they begin using the CMMI · Planning and managing the process improvement project · Innovative, untraditional yet highly effective and proven strategies for CMMI-based process improvement · A thorough debunking of many of the costly and wasteful myths surrounding CMMI-based improvement

Customer Reviews:

Common sense book not only for CMMI.......2005-07-26

I bought this book because my Company is thinking about getting into CMMI. I realized that this book is a common sense approach to process improvement. I was skeptic about CMMI and the way that other companies implement it. This book makes you keep your feet on the ground. It is an imparcial approach to a difficult task. You may save yourself a lot of money just by following the guidelines recommended by the author. In my case, I used some of the recommendations in my own process, because common sense is applicable everywhere.

Gutsy and Honest approach to Process Improvement!.......2004-04-20

Finally, a refreshingly honest approach to CMMI and process improvement. Michael has an uncanny ability to see into the heart of organizational psychology and points out the real reasons for attempting any improvement or organizational change. He strips away the hype surrounding CMMI and focuses on what's really important...obtaining results and improving the bottom line. It might be considered contrarian or even heretical by those making a living by selling CMMI, but I call it practical, gutsy and honest. A must read by any organization considering change regardless of the model chosen.

Unexpected gem - read before leaping!.......2004-03-22

If you're expecting a book that shows how to implement the CMMI, or even one that gushes about its benefits you're in for a surprise. Yes, this book does show how to achieve process improvement by using the CMMI as a model, but it differs greatly from the recipe approaches of similar books that will have you marching over a cliff instead of improving your organization. The author does this by uncovering fallacies and the blind paths the CMMI (or any process improvement initiative) represents.

Here's what to expect from this book, and why you should read it cover-to-cover before embarking on a CMMI implementation or other process improvement initiative. How to spot and avoid common pitfalls such as:

- focusing on the process instead of the benefits, which of course, can be counterproductive when the process itself is applied blindly and without regard for real efficiency.

- avoiding the 'when all you have is a hammer everything looks like a nail' effect; i.e., attempting to apply the CMMI to everything

- mis-diagnosing problems with the process and applying the wrong solution; for example, scope creep in a project causes a reaction that often results in claims that the requirements management process is broken when the real problem is a lack of discipline or standards (not the same as a process)

Besides showing what does not work, and forcing you to look at your real goals before embarking on a CMMI implementation or process improvement initiative, the author leads you through a realistic appraisal of your goals and objectives, and shows you how to accomplish them. He is a strong proponent of using a systems view, and shows how to apply systems thinking principles to achieving your goals and objectives. This is the real value of this book, and why it's a sanity check for any organization that is about to embark on any improvement initiative.

Of course, if you are going to implement the CMMI, in whole or relevant parts to improve your capability, this book provides a clear roadmap for doing just that. Do not let my previous remarks lead you to believe that this book is anti-CMMI because it's not. It's merely anti-unrealism.

Book Description

This book provides invaluable guidance on moving an organization from the chaotic environment of free-form software development towards a more controlled and documented process. It discusses how IEEE standards may be used to facilitate the development of internal plans and procedures in support of repeatable software engineering processes, or in achiving CMM/CMMI-SW Level 2.

CMMI(R) for Outsourcing: Guidelines for Software, Systems, and IT Acquisition (The SEI Series in Software Engineering)

Average customer rating:

The strength of CMMI FOR OUTSOURCING lies in its real-world scenarios
perhaps not too different from [regular] CMMI

CMMI(R) for Outsourcing: Guidelines for Software, Systems, and IT Acquisition (The SEI Series in Software Engineering)
Hubert F. Hofmann , Deborah K. Yedlin , John W. Mishler , and Susan Kushner
Manufacturer: Addison-Wesley Professional
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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Similar Items:

CMMI(R): Guidelines for Process Integration and Product Improvement (2nd Edition) (The SEI Series in Software Engineering)
CMMI(R) Survival Guide: Just Enough Process Improvement (The SEI Series in Software Engineering)
Practical Software Estimation: Function Point Methods for Insourced and Outsourced Projects (Infosys Press)
Process Improvement Essentials: CMMI, Six Sigma, and ISO 9001
CMMI(R) Assessments : Motivating Positive Change (SEI Series in Software Engineering)

ASIN: 0321477170

Customer Reviews:

The strength of CMMI FOR OUTSOURCING lies in its real-world scenarios.......2007-06-10

College-level and technical computer libraries seeking a solid software engineer's reference will find CMMI For Outsourcing an important reference acquisition: it provides a basic introduction the initial CMMI-ACQ protocols and its use in technology acquisition, covering techniques proven to work in GM's own outsourcing program and reviewing the acquisition project lifecycle. The strength of CMMI FOR OUTSOURCING lies in its real-world scenarios and stories which reflect practical organizational and insider experience, including common tricks and pitfalls.

perhaps not too different from [regular] CMMI.......2007-05-24

CMMI is a heavyweight process for software development, as well you should know, if you are at all considering this book. The twist here, compared to earlier books that focus exclusively on CMMI, is what happens if you also outsource. So now at the corporate level, there are two parties, your company and a supplier.

The gist of the book involves a few, crucial aspects. One is to treat the supplier more as a partner. At some level, perhaps as akin to a subsidiary of your company, co-equal to the other divisions or groups within the company. Another is to have a very clear idea of what metrics you need. And you must have metrics, to have any realistic chance of monitoring progress, both inhouse and outsourced.

Yet another aspect is to standardise as completely as possible the various work processes. Especially where these cross the boundary between your company and the supplier.

You might find that if your company has already implemented some internal CMMI processes, that the transition to involving an outsourcer is not so drastic. Unless that supplier has had no experience in CMMI. It seems that the difference between this book and its predecessors is more in emphasis, rather than in a qualitatively new approach.

Process Improvement Essentials: CMMI, Six Sigma, and ISO 9001

Average customer rating:

More aimed for managers/laymen.
Should be required "first reading" for process improvement...
PI book review
Great introduction; Easy to read
An engaging overview of the field of process improvement

Process Improvement Essentials: CMMI, Six Sigma, and ISO 9001
James Persse
Manufacturer: O'Reilly Media, Inc.
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Similar Items:

CMMI(R) Survival Guide: Just Enough Process Improvement (The SEI Series in Software Engineering)
CMMI(R): Guidelines for Process Integration and Product Improvement (2nd Edition) (The SEI Series in Software Engineering)
Project Management Success with CMMI(R): Seven CMMI Process Areas
Real Process Improvement Using the CMMI
CMMI Distilled: A Practical Introduction to Integrated Process Improvement, Second Edition

ASIN: 0596102178

Book Description

Today, technology has become too much a part of overall corporate success for its effectiveness to be left to chance. The stakes are too high. Fortunately, the idea of 'quality management' is being reinvigorated. In the last decade process programs have become more and more prevalent. And, out of all the available options, three have moved to the top of the chain. These three are:

The 9001:2000 Quality Management Standard from the International Standards Organization;
The Capability Maturity Model Integration from the Software Engineering Institute; and
Six Sigma, a methodology for improvement shaped by companies such as Motorola, Honeywell, and General Electric.

These recognized and proven quality programs are rising in popularity as more technology managers are looking for ways to help remove degrees of risk and uncertainty from their business equations, and to introduce methods of predictability that better ensure success.

Process Improvement Essentials combines the foundation needed to understand process improvement theory with the best practices to help individuals implement process improvement initiatives in their organization. The three leading programs: ISO 9001:2000, CMMI, and Six Sigma--amidst the buzz and hype--tend to get lumped together under a common label. This book delivers a combined guide to all three programs, compares their applicability, and then sets the foundation for further exploration. It's a one-stop-shop designed to give you a working orientation to what the field is all about.

Customer Reviews:

More aimed for managers/laymen........2007-08-06

I bought this book to familiarize myself with process engineering concepts prior to taking a position as a semiconductor process development engineer. This book is not very useful for engineers, but is useful for managers or laymen who need a basic concept/understanding for Quality Control Systems.

Other than that, it is very easy to read.

Should be required "first reading" for process improvement..........2007-01-14

I've had the dubious "pleasure" of reading process improvement books that would make your eyes bleed. Fortunately, this isn't one of them... Process Improvement Essentials: CMMI, Six SIGMA, and ISO 9001 by James R. Persse. This is a perfect "first look" at the subject for someone who doesn't yet know what they don't know...

Contents:
Part One - Process and Process Improvement: Introduction; The Case for Process; Establishing Your Process Program; Sustaining Process Improvement
Part Two - Three Major Process Improvement Standards: ISO 9001:2000; The Capability Maturity Model Integration (For Development); Six Sigma; Considerations For Adoption
Index

The problem with many books on this subject is that they dive into the details of a specific program before you really understand *why* you're doing this in the first place. That's fine for someone who has already decided on a particular approach, but it's completely unsuited to someone who really just needs to get a broad overview. Persse solves this issue by starting out with a high-level look at Process Improvement... why it's necessary, how it works, and how it's best implemented. Based on his years of experience, he is able to point out the mindsets and approaches that will either jumpstart or doom a process improvement initiative. Only after the reader has the mental framework does he introduce details on the three major process improvement frameworks commonly seen in the market today. There's enough detail in each of the chapters to understand how the framework functions and what it's designed to resolve, but not so much that the reader (at the targeted level) decides it's all too complicated and walks away. After reading this book, you should know what it is that you don't know, have an idea as to what areas to focus on, and be prepared to take *intelligent* next steps. And before you decide to sink hundreds of thousands of dollars into a program, that's a great place to be starting at.

I'd consider this "required reading" for anyone contemplating a process improvement initiative. Time and dollars invested here will ensure much better value for the money you'll end up spending down the road...

PI book review.......2007-01-09

This is a good book if you're not bound to a specific model/framework. It gives recommendation for CMMI, Six Sig and ISO process frameworks. Easy read.

Great introduction; Easy to read.......2006-12-11

This book was very easy to read and understand. Unlike other books out there, this book didn't put me to sleep. It's well organized and got me up to speed very quickly. I needed a quick introduction to CMMI since taking my new job.

An engaging overview of the field of process improvement.......2006-11-11

There are currently three major international standards in process improvement: CMMI, ISO 9001, and Six Sigma. In the past, I have had a hard time finding insights about the commonalities and differences between these three standards. Most of books and instructors focus on one of these standards. Luckily, I stumbled on this book.

I have never expected a process book to be that interesting and entertaining to read! I found the author's style very engaging; most of the book, except pieces covering specific details of each standard, is *not* "dry" or boring, which I can't say about other process books that I looked at. Secondly, the author's knowledge and experience make everything logical and convincing, even comforting.

The book consists of two parts. The first one is filled with real life examples designed to show an executive or a skeptic (in my past past experience, these words were synonyms) that process must be managed and can be improved. In other words, if one wants a business to succeed, he better understands the processes comprising that business, monitors and measures them, and improves these processes continuously.

The second part of the book is split into three chunks: CMMI, ISO 9001, and Six Sigma. Each of these three chapters have an excellent overview of a standard's history, its main gist, and the differences with the other two standards, as well as a concise descriptions of its concepts and components.

This book will be a pleasant surprise for those who don't have time to compile numerous sources on the topic, or who fall asleep reading traditionally written process books.

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