Which related Practice Area can provide information about developing and following plans for implementing process improvements in Process Management (PCM)?

The correct answer, which relates to the development and following of plans for implementing process improvements in Process Management (PCM), is rooted in the essential nature of the Planning Practice Area. In the context of CMMI, effective process management is heavily reliant on the ability to strategically outline how processes will be improved and what steps will be taken to achieve those improvements.

The Planning area encompasses aspects such as defining objectives, determining necessary resources, establishing timelines, and creating a structured approach for implementing changes. This is critical as it lays down a structured framework that can guide organizations in enhancing their processes methodically rather than haphazardly. Proper planning ensures that improvements are not only actionable but also aligned with broader organizational goals.

Conversely, while Execution, Monitoring, and Feedback are all important components of process management, they focus on different aspects of the improvement cycle. Execution pertains to the actual carrying out of the plans that were developed, Monitoring involves tracking progress and performance against the plans, and Feedback emphasizes the importance of learning and making adjustments based on outcomes. These aspects rely on a solid foundation of planning to be effective, illustrating why Planning is the most relevant practice area for this question.