What is generally expected of processes in an organization at Level 3 of the CMMI?

At Level 3 of the Capability Maturity Model Integration (CMMI), processes within an organization are indeed characterized as well-defined and documented. This level, often referred to as the "Defined" level, signifies that an organization has moved beyond ad-hoc and chaotic processes. Here, processes are not only established but also standardized across projects.

At this level, organizations typically use a defined process for project management and engineering activities, which advocates for consistent practices that can be tailored to meet specific project needs. There is an emphasis on documentation, meaning that processes are clearly articulated, and guidelines are created to ensure that all practitioners understand the procedures and practices expected of them. This structured approach leads to improved quality and predictability in deliverables, as everyone follows common standards.

While processes may also be subject to optimization and continuous improvement in subsequent levels, at Level 3, the focus is firmly on the establishment of a solid foundation of well-defined, documented processes that can be replicated and tailored. This ensures a level of maturity that allows an organization to perform effectively in managing its projects and achieving its objectives.