Abstract

Measurements of process maturity can serve as useful predictors of an organization’s success, but standards for measuring process maturity have been lacking. Typical indicators of process capability are lagging measurements based on process reproducibility and precision. Leading measurements of capability can focus on a standardized process, measurements tied to customer requirements, and documented process improvement. These measurements serve as the basis for a recognized auditable standard. Process certification rises from fundamental process management, reinforced by ISO 9001 and further developed by IBM and H. James Harrington. While the specifics may vary and evolve for any process, basics factors include final customer requirements, process measurements, supplier partnerships, documentation, training, benchmarking, adaptability and continuous improvement. Certification to a standard for measuring process maturity reflect the sustainability of organizational quality efforts.