Organizing for TSMO
Case Study 7: Integrating the Capability Maturity Model into Agency Processes

Chapter 3 - Summary

The capability maturity model (CMM) assessment is a tool that can assist agencies in identifying areas in which they are successful or where there is opportunity for improvement. CMM dimensions outline elements that agencies should consider when advancing transportation systems management and operations (TSMO). Each agency interviewed for CMM integration utilized the findings from their respective assessments in varying ways to mature TSMO in their organizations. Some of the lessons learned using the CMM assessment include:

• As a tool, CMM assessments can be used in many different ways for evaluating programs, projects, or the agency's or region's performance as a whole.
• The CMM assessment can be used as a tool to establish a baseline of TSMO maturity and can be performed several times as a TSMO program grows to ensure agency objectives are being met.
• Integrating CMM dimensions into TSMO programs one at a time enables agencies to efficiently focus resources. When this approach is taken, maturing one dimension can affect the success of another simultaneously because CMM dimensions are interrelated. There is no specific method on how to integrate the CMM assessment into agency processes. It is up to the agency to leverage lessons learned from CMM dimensions to help address their needs. CMM can be used to identify the health of an overall TSMO program or on a project, corridor, or strategy-specific level.

Concepts established through systemically assessing the maturity of a program or asset enable agencies to make well-informed decisions in support of continuous improvement. Best practices identified in this case study can educate agency administration and leadership on the value of performing a CMM assessment and integrating its findings into day-to-day operations.