Appraise the organization's processes periodically and as needed to maintain an understanding of their strengths and weaknesses.

Process appraisals may be performed for the following reasons:

·   To identify processes that should be improved

·   To confirm progress and make the benefits of process improvement visible

·   To satisfy the needs of a customer-supplier relationship

·   To motivate and facilitate buy-in

The buy-in gained during a process appraisal can be eroded significantly if it is not followed by an appraisal-based action plan.

Typical Work Products

1.    Plans for the organization's process appraisals

2.    Appraisal findings that address strengths and weaknesses of the organization's processes

3.    Improvement recommendations for the organization's processes

Subpractices

1.    Obtain sponsorship of the process appraisal from senior management.

Senior management sponsorship includes the commitment to have the organization's managers and staff participate in the process appraisal and to provide the resources and funding to analyze and communicate the findings of the appraisal.

2.    Define the scope of the process appraisal.

Process appraisals may be performed on the entire organization or may be performed on a smaller part of an organization such as a single project or business area.

The scope of the process appraisal addresses the following:

·   Definition of the organization (e.g., sites or business areas) that will be covered by the appraisal

·   Identification of the project and support functions that will represent the organization in the appraisal

·   Processes that will be appraised

3.    Determine the method and criteria for process appraisal.

Process appraisals can occur in many forms. Process appraisals should address the needs and objectives of the organization, which may change over time. For example, the appraisal may be based on a process model, such as a CMMI model, or on a national or international standard, such as ISO 9001 [ISO 2000]. The appraisals may also be based on a benchmark comparison with other organizations. The appraisal method may assume a variety of characteristics in terms of time and effort expended, makeup of the appraisal team, and the method and depth of investigation.

4.    Plan, schedule, and prepare for the process appraisal.

5.    Conduct the process appraisal.

6.    Document and deliver the appraisal’s activities and findings.