Interswitch, Lagos based leading integrated payment, processing and transaction switching company focused on Africa, announces that it has been appraised at Maturity Level 3 on the CMMI Institute's Capability Maturity Model Integration (CMMI) framework. This assessment validates Interswitch's process capability based on the CMMI standards that measure process improvements.

An appraisal at maturity Level 3 indicates the Interswitch is performing at a "defined" level. At this level, processes are well characterized and understood and are described in standards, procedures, tools and methods. The organization's set of standard processes, which is the basis for maturity Level 3, is established and improved over time.

Speaking about the significance of the CMMI appraisal, Mitchell Elegbe, Group Managing Director, Interswitch, said, "We are delighted to have achieved CMMI level 3, the first business in West Africa to achieve Maturity level 3.  The appraisal demonstrates how Interswitch is committed to maintaining and improving its operational excellence across the business in-line with international best practices. Standardized and efficient processes in the development and delivery of our products and solutions are crucial not only for the performance of our business, but also for the services we provide our customers. Implementing a framework such as this is in line with our long term strategy and will contribute towards the continued scale and growth of the business."

Being appraised at Maturity Level 3, Interswitch is realized following benefits,

• Improved customer relations resulting in additional work, and better communications

• Recognition of products from customers

• Satisfied employees resulting in best efforts and retention

• Better response and less business risk in meeting client needs

• Improved quality and productivity of services and products provided resulting in improved competitiveness, market share increase

• Increased Market Share!  Increased Efficiency!    Improved Profitability!

Kiran Chaudhari, AVP and CMMI Lead Appraiser at Nihilent acknowledged, "Interswitch is one the best example of implementing agile methodology along with CMMI best practices. The company has invested huge efforts and tools in institutionalizing the Maturity Level 3 practices."

Shohel Noor, General Manager Nihilent West Africa emphasized on the fact that adoption of CMMI by leaders like Interswitch will increase overall adoption of CMMI by the ICT sector in Nigeria leading to the overall growth of this sector.

Interswitch's bespoke e-payment solutions are used by businesses and governments across Africa. Interswitch's solutions improve operational efficiency and increase revenues and profitability. Products include online and mobile payment platforms, revenue collection and funds disbursement solutions, in-app mobile payments, vertical industry solutions and ‘Verve', Nigeria's leading and highest circulation chip + PIN payment card.