Process capability Level 4: Predictable process

The previously described Established process now operates predictively within defined limits to achieve its process outcomes. Quantitative management needs are identified, measurement data are collected and analysed to identify assignable causes of variation. Corrective action is taken to address assignable causes of variation.

The following process attributes, together with the previously defined process attributes, demonstrate the achievement of this level:

PA 4.1 Quantitative analysis process attribute

The quantitative analysis process attribute is a measure of the extent to which information needs are defined, relationships between process elements are identified and data are collected. As a result of full achievement of this process attribute:

  1. The process is aligned with quantitative business goals;

  2. Process information needs in support of relevant defined quantitative business goals are established;

  3. Process measurement objectives are derived from process information needs;

  4. Measurable relationships between process elements that contribute to the process performance are identified;

  5. Quantitative objectives for process performance in support of relevant business goals are established;

  6. Appropriate measures and frequency of measurement are identified and defined in line with process measurement objectives and quantitative objectives for process performance;

  7. Results of measurement are collected, validated and reported in order to monitor the extent to which the quantitative objectives for process performance are met.

NOTE 1: 1nformation needs typically reflect management, technical, project, process or product needs.

Generic Practices

Generic Resources

PA 4.2 Quantitative control process attribute

The quantitative control process attribute is a measure of the extent to which objective data are used to manage process performance that is predictable. As a result of full achievement of this process attribute:

  1. Techniques for analyzing the collected data are selected;

  2. Assignable causes of process variation are determined through analysis of the collected data;

  3. Distributions that characterize the performance of the process are established;

  4. Corrective actions are taken to address assignable causes of variation;

  5. Separate distributions are established (as necessary) for analyzing the process under the influence of assignable causes of variation.

Generic Practices

Generic Resources