The internal consistency and precedence of key process areas in the capability maturity model for software

Abstract

Evaluating the reliability of maturity level (ML) ratings is crucial for providing confidence in the results of software process assessments. This study investigates the dimensions underlying the maturity construct in the Capability Maturity Model (CMM) for Software (SW-CMM) and estimates the internal consistency of each dimension. The results suggest that SW-CMM maturity is a three-dimensional construct, with "Project Implementation" representing the ML 2 key process areas (KPAs), "Organization Implementation" representing the ML 3 KPAs, and "Quantitative Process Implementation" representing the KPAs at MLs 4 and 5. The internal consistency for each of the three dimensions as estimated by Cronbach's alpha exceeds the recommended value of 0.9. Based on those results, this study builds and tests a theoretical model which posits that the achievement of lower ML KPAs sustains the implementation of higher ML KPAs. Results of path analysis using partial least squares (PLS) support the theoretical model and provide detailed understanding of the process improvement path. The analysis is based on 676 CMM-Based Appraisal for Internal Process Improvement (CBA IPI) assessments.

The effects of IS resources, capabilities, and qualities on organizational performance: An integrated approach

“…Several thousands of organizations have been assessed on the base of CMMI and SPICE around the world 4 [41], and assessment results for process capability have been used as a base for many important decisions, such as ''actions to improve internal software processes, large-scale acquisitions, and contract monitoring'' [48]; however, there are insufficient studies to explain those phenomena in the RBV and ISSM. Ravichandran and Lertwongsatien [78] also recommended an integrated model that includes IS capabilities and ISSMs.…”

Evaluating the relationship between process improvement and schedule deviation in software maintenance

“…A linear transformation of the variable scores, like the coding used in this study, is also known to have a very small risk of spurious interactions [51]. A previous study provided ample confidence in the internal-consistency reliability over 0.9 of that measure [48].…”

ابتکار تصاميم أزياء بارامترية معاصرة مستوحاة من الزخارف الإسلامية باستخدام الطباعة ثلاثية الأبعاد

“…The present study uses Cronbach's alpha because it is a popular method for measuring internal consistency (Jung & Goldenson, 2008). In the early stages of research on an assessment instrument, reliabilities of 0.7 or higher are considered sufficient for narrow constructs (Van DeVen & Ferry, 1980).…”