The maturity model in Information Systems (IS) research continues to grow in popularity, as an approach to evaluating and improving an organ ization’s capabilities. In recent years, n umerous maturity model contributions have been made ; for example , in the areas of IT/business alignment, project management , and information life cycle management. However, concerns are expressed in the literature regarding the development process and foundations upon which some maturity models are developed. This white paper presents a high - level overview of the issues outlined in existing research regarding maturity model development. The paper further highlights how the development approach adopted for IT - CMF overcomes those concerns by building upon existing theories and methodologies, by following a rigorous development process that is based on a design science approach, and through externally validating the fra mework within numerous organizations.