How are CMMI process areas typically categorized?

CMMI process areas are typically categorized by maturity levels and specific goals because this structure facilitates a clear framework for organizations to assess and improve their processes. The maturity levels indicate a progressive increase in process capability, allowing organizations to benchmark their current processes against best practices and establish a roadmap for improvements. Specific goals associated with each process area provide the criteria needed to evaluate whether an organization is effectively achieving its desired outcomes. This classification enables organizations to implement targeted process improvements systematically, enhancing overall performance and process maturity.