This presentation will provide a brief overview of the SPICE framework and then present the case study of applying the framework, in a limited fashion, to obtain a "snapshot in time" of the organizations process maturity. The organization decided on using the framework because senior management saw a large benefit in improving overall organizational performance and commitment to quality. Well discuss the criticality of senior management support to the success of the effort. The presentation will emphasize the importance of achieving cultural changes that over the long term will show quantifiable improvements in internal processes that will enhance the ability of the organization to satisfy its mission.
Only a relevant subset of process areas and key features were assessed because the priority was to identify opportunities for performance engineering interventions rather then determining certification status. The results did establish a meaningful baseline against portions of the SPICE framework so that the organization can show measured improvement in the future. After the assessment was completed the findings were consolidated and prioritized, and action plans for addressing the highest priority items were formulated after the results of the assessment were presented to senior management. The quality improvements that were initiated, addressed underlying infrastructure issues that were revealed during the assessment, instead of focusing more narrowly on gaps that would improve scores in specific SPICE areas and features. The SPICE based interviews proved to be an invaluable tool in revealing the process improvement opportunities that most impact the organizations performance and responsiveness to its customers.