Author(s)

A.K. Bissett & J.I.A. Siddiqi

Abstract

The European software industry has become accustomed to the application of quality management systems (QMS) based on ISO 9000 as a strategy for software quality improvement. The Capability Maturity Model (CMM) has not seen widespread use within Europe Precisely because the CMM appears impressive in its usefulness it is worth examining its strengths and weaknesses so that we can assess its likely impact on the European software industry. The paper summarises the fundamental weaknesses of the CMM and also considers the benefits the CMM has to offer to existing ISO certified organisations. Conversely, we highlight the lack of attention to detail in the CMM to issues which are addressed in the ISO standard. We also assess the likely impact of Spice and Bootstrap, the Europe

Keywords