The Capability Maturity Model (CMM) is a framework for assessing and improving an organization's software development processes across five maturity levels: Initial, Managed, Defined, Quantitatively Managed, and Optimizing. Each level establishes criteria for standardizing processes and enhancing overall project performance, with specific key process areas (KPAs) defined for each maturity level. The CMM aims to provide organizations with a benchmark for process maturity and a systematic approach to drive improvements in software development practices.