The challenges of capability maturity model integration application in the dynamic environment

Abstract

The capability maturity model integration for development (CMMI-DEV) model is a software process improvement (SPI) model designed to leverage the level of software products' quality. Through modelling highly organised, controlled and continuously improved processes, CMMI-DEV enhances the organisational and functional capabilities to guarantee a competitive advantage. However, software organisations face strong competitive dynamic environment challenges due to the fast-fierce changing environmental variables such as the instable customer perspectives. Without resolving such challenges, the sustainability of software organisations is questionable. CMMI-DEV v1.3 model cannot deal with the changing dynamic environment, thus, lacks dynamic capabilities (DC). These capabilities can handle dynamic environmental factors and thus adding economic value to the organisation. However, DC with CMMI-DEV v1.3 are either not integrated or are applied in isolation. To address this issue, we propose a new model that integrates CMMI-DEV v1.3 and the DC model. DC component adds knowledge absorbing and sensing processes, which helps organisations to reshape and reallocate their resources to seize opportunities and manage threats. The model was validated using knowledge literature review and experts' judgement via Delphi technique. Results show that the new model addressed the shortcomings of CMMI-DEV v1.3 and is applicable in today's environment.