In CMMI, does each evolutionary level within a Practice Area build on the previous levels?

The principle that each evolutionary level within a Practice Area in CMMI builds on the previous levels is foundational to the model's structure. CMMI is designed to provide a framework for process improvement across various disciplines and levels.

As organizations progress through the levels, they are expected to incorporate and build upon the practices learned and established at earlier levels. This cumulative approach ensures that as an organization matures, it does not start from scratch at each new level but rather enhances and expands on existing capabilities and processes. For example, auditing practices introduced in earlier levels are further refined and deepened as the organization advances, making each level not just a new set of practices but a continuation of the journey toward process maturity.

This layered approach emphasizes the incremental nature of process improvement and helps organizations systematically develop their processes, leading to more effective practices and better outcomes over time. The integration of previous practices into new levels also allows for consistency and reinforcement of good practices throughout an organization’s growth.