How to choose a CMMI consulting partner: 9 questions

The partner you choose shapes the next year of your organization's life. Ask these before signing.

1. Who is the named Lead Appraiser, and what is their authorization number? Verify it in the CMMI Institute partner directory.
2. How many Benchmark appraisals have they led at our target level? You want double digits, not “we've supported.”
3. Is the appraisal fee fixed against a defined scope? Time-and-materials appraisals reward slowness.
4. What exactly is included? Evidence-review support, remediation re-checks, and reporting vary enormously.
5. Who does the implementation work — and is it separated from the appraisal? The implementer shouldn't rate their own work.
6. Can we talk to two reference clients our size? Ask them: did the fee hold? Did the schedule hold?
7. What's the fieldwork window — committed in writing? A fee without dates is a reservation for nothing.
8. What happens if we miss a practice area? Remediation support terms and re-check pricing, up front.
9. Are your materials current to CMMI V3.0? Stale V1.3/V2.0 templates are a tell.