Contractor Procurement Capability Maturity Model (CMM)

This document provides a sample matrix that can be used to measure an organization’s contractor procurement process maturity.

The capability maturity model describes a maturity curve on these capability levels: INITIAL, which describes a poorly aligned function with non-documented strategies, manual management processes, lack of integrated systems and heavy reliance on spreadsheets/manual documents; REPEATABLE, which describes a loosely aligned function supported by informal policies applied to processes performed by personnel with mixed skill levels; DEFINED, which describes a strategic management structure in place with well-defined processes supported by an organized and highly trained team; MANAGED, which describes a function aligned with the organizational strategic plan and personnel; and OPTIMIZED, which describes a management process performed at an optimal level with best practices in full use.

An organization with an OPTIMIZED contractor procurement process utilizes strategic sourcing, has developed and fully integrated policies and responsibilities, and utilizes a vendor management plan that is aligned with the organization’s strategic plans and communicated to relevant personnel.

The capability maturity model is a framework that describes an improvement path from an ad hoc, immature process to a mature, disciplined process focused on continuous improvement. The CMM defines the state of a process using a common language that is based on the Carnegie Mellon Software Engineering Institute Capability Maturity Model.