An Adaptive Maturity Framework is a type of maturity model that guides incremental improvement while remaining adaptable and responsive to change. Unlike sequential maturity models that focus on linear progression, an Adaptive Maturity Framework supports iterative advancement based on emerging needs and priorities.
The Core Tenets of an Adaptive Maturity Framework
- Iterative – The framework is designed for stepwise enhancement over time rather than defining a fixed end state.
- Adaptive – The framework can flex and pivot in response to changing conditions and new information.
- Contextual – The framework is tailored to the specific needs and environment of an organization.
- Actionable – The framework provides clear guidance connecting maturity to tangible practices and behaviours.
- Outcomes-focused – Progress is measured by the ability to achieve business objectives rather than conformance to predefined levels.
Why Adaptive Maturity Frameworks are important to business consultants
Adaptive Maturity Frameworks provide business consultants a practical toolkit to guide clients through incremental, iterative maturity improvements.
The adaptability empowers consultants to tailor the framework to each client’s unique context and goals. Consultants can leverage the actionable guidance to help clients connect maturity to real behaviors and capabilities that drive outcomes. The iterative approach provides flexibility to pivot as the client’s needs evolve.
By focusing on outcomes rather than conformance, consultants can provide objective evidence demonstrating the business value of maturity improvements. Overall, the Adaptive Maturity Framework methodology aligns well to the realities consultants face in guiding clients through complex change.
Example of an Adaptive Maturity Framework in Use
Agile Software Development – An Adaptive Maturity Framework can provide guidance on incrementally improving agile practices based on business objectives. Rather than demanding rigid adherence to predefined agile levels, the framework helps teams adapt practices like user stories, retrospectives and continuous integration in the way that best delivers value.
Customer Experience – An Adaptive Maturity Framework allows customer experience to enhance iteratively based on voice-of-customer data and emerging digital capabilities. The model adapts across different customer personas and journeys rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
Cybersecurity – With continuously evolving threats and technology, an Adaptive Maturity Model allows security programs to pivot and adapt quickly. Priorities can shift from prevention to detection to response as needed.
Adaptive Maturity Framework Synonyms
- Evolutionary Maturity Framework – A framework with gradual, iterative maturity enhancement over time.
- Flexible Maturity Model – A maturity model that can change and adapt vs. being fixed.
- Agile Maturity Model – A maturity model based on agile values like responding to change.
Adaptive Maturity Framework Antonyms
- Fixed Maturity Model – A maturity model with predefined levels and criteria that remains static.
- Prescriptive Maturity Framework – A framework that defines strict, specific maturity requirements.
- Sequential Maturity Model – A model focused on linear, step-by-step maturity progression.
Other Closely-Related Terms
- Continuous Improvement Model – An approach to ongoing enhancement through small changes.
- Maturity Assessment – Evaluating the current state of maturity within an organization.
- Capability Maturity Model (CMM) – A process improvement framework focused on organization capabilities.
