This document provides an overview of software processes and the Capability Maturity Model Integration (CMMI). It defines what a software process is, characteristics of processes, and that different project types require different processes. It then describes the key elements of the CMMI, including its five maturity levels from Initial to Optimizing. Each level is defined in one sentence or less. It also briefly outlines some of the key process areas assessed at levels 2 through 5.