CMMI
Process improvement framework with maturity levels 0-5
ISO/IEC 42001:2023
International standard for AI management systems.
Quick Verdict
CMMI drives process maturity for predictable delivery in software/IT, while ISO/IEC 42001:2023 establishes AI management systems for ethical governance. Companies adopt CMMI for operational excellence and appraisals; ISO 42001 for trustworthy AI, regulatory alignment, and certification trust.
CMMI
Capability Maturity Model Integration (CMMI) v2.0
Key Features
- Defines 6 maturity levels (0-5) for staged progression
- Organizes 25 practice areas into 4 category areas
- SCAMPI appraisals provide official benchmark ratings
- Generic practices ensure organization-wide institutionalization
- Supports Agile/DevOps with unified development-services model
ISO/IEC 42001:2023
ISO/IEC 42001:2023 Artificial intelligence — Management system
Key Features
- PDCA-based framework for AI lifecycle governance
- Mandatory AI Impact Assessments for high-risk systems
- Annex A with 38 AI-specific controls
- Third-party risk management and monitoring
- Seamless integration with ISO 27001/9001
Detailed Analysis
A comprehensive look at the specific requirements, scope, and impact of each standard.
CMMI Details
What It Is
Capability Maturity Model Integration (CMMI) v2.0 is a performance improvement framework for process maturity. It helps organizations achieve predictable, measurable delivery through structured practices. Primary scope covers development, services, acquisition; uses maturity/capability levels with institutionalization focus.
Key Components
- 4 Category Areas: Doing, Managing, Enabling, Improving
- 12 Capability Areas, 25 Practice Areas (e.g., RDM, CM, PQA)
- Maturity Levels 0-5; Capability Levels 0-3 per area
- Generic practices for institutionalization; SCAMPI appraisals for certification
Why Organizations Use It
- Reduces risks, rework; improves predictability, quality (e.g., 34% cost reduction)
- Meets contract requirements (defense, regulated sectors)
- Builds stakeholder trust via benchmark ratings
- Enables Agile/DevOps integration, competitive advantage
Implementation Overview
- Phased: assessment, pilot, rollout, appraisal, sustainment
- Gap analysis, training, tooling (e.g., ALM); pilots key
- Applies to mid-large orgs, IT/software/services; SCAMPI Class A for ratings
ISO/IEC 42001:2023 Details
What It Is
ISO/IEC 42001:2023 is the world's first international standard for establishing, implementing, maintaining, and improving an Artificial Intelligence Management System (AIMS). It provides a certifiable framework using the Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) methodology and High-Level Structure (HLS) to manage AI risks and opportunities responsibly across the full AI lifecycle.
Key Components
- Clauses 4-10 covering context, leadership, planning, support, operation, evaluation, and improvement.
- **Annex A38 AI-specific controls for data governance, transparency, and resiliency.
- Built on PDCA and HLS for integration with ISO 9001/27001.
- Third-party certification via accredited auditors.
Why Organizations Use It
- Mitigates AI risks like bias, model drift, and ethical issues.
- Aligns with regulations (e.g., EU AI Act) and builds trust.
- Enables innovation, compliance, and competitive differentiation.
- Enhances reputation via certified trustworthy AI.
Implementation Overview
- Phased gap analysis, risk assessments, and training.
- Applicable to all sizes/sectors/roles in AI ecosystem.
- Requires AIIAs, monitoring KPIs, and audits; 6-12 months typical.
Key Differences
| Aspect | CMMI | ISO/IEC 42001:2023 |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Process improvement across development, services, acquisition | AI management systems lifecycle governance and ethics |
| Industry | Software, IT ops, defense, cross-industry global | All sectors using AI, universal global applicability |
| Nature | Voluntary process maturity framework with appraisals | Voluntary certification standard for AIMS compliance |
| Testing | SCAMPI A/B/C appraisals by certified lead appraisers | Third-party audits, AIIAs, management reviews |
| Penalties | Loss of maturity rating, no legal penalties | Loss of certification, no direct legal penalties |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about CMMI and ISO/IEC 42001:2023
CMMI FAQ
ISO/IEC 42001:2023 FAQ
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