Chapter 8: Process Improvement Myths and Methodologies

But the Emperor has nothing on at all! cried a little child.

” Hans Christian Andersen

ABOUT THIS CHAPTER

This chapter was actually the kernel of thought that started me down the path of writing this book. I was sitting around one day trying to make sense of all the things people kept telling me about CMM and process improvement. I guess I ve always been somewhat of a skeptic, so I decided to go find out which of the hyperbole, myths, legends, and beliefs surrounding CMM and CMMI-based process improvement had any basis in fact or reality. As it turns out, many of the beliefs people in this industry were perpetuating were easily verified to be outright false or at least stretchy, elastic reality.

This chapter gives you a summary overview of CMMI and process improvement urban myths and what about them is mythical. Most of the details which debunk these myths can be found in other chapters in this book.

This chapter will probably affect you in one of three ways:

1. You will laugh along with me because you ve heard the same things and knew them to be untrue and you re glad someone has finally put it in writing.

2. You will be shocked and appalled to find out that some of your most basic beliefs about CMM and CMMI-based process improvement are not factual.

3. You will be incensed, outraged, and angry at me for debunking myths that have served you so well over the years .