What is the first level of the Capability Maturity Model Integration (CMMI)?

The first level of the Capability Maturity Model Integration (CMMI) is referred to as "Initial." At this stage, processes are typically unpredictable, poorly controlled, and reactive. Organizations operating at the Initial level can struggle with maintaining consistent project performance, often relying heavily on individual efforts rather than established processes. This level is characterized by a lack of stable environment for development and can lead to significant variations in outcomes.

As organizations progress beyond the Initial level, they move toward more defined, repeatable, and eventually optimized processes. Understanding this foundational concept is crucial for grasping how organizations can improve their process maturity over time and move toward higher levels of performance and efficiency within the CMMI framework.