Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe)

Correct Answer: Decentralize decision-making

In the Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe), the principle that describes the need for decentralizing decision-making to enable faster response and more empowerment at the team level is 'Decentralize decision-making'. This principle is one of the core tenets of SAFe, which encourages power to be distributed to those who are closest to the work, allowing for more rapid decisions and adjustments, which leads to better outcomes and more agile teams. The other answers represent different principles or practices within SAFe. 'Apply systems thinking' relates to understanding the complexities of the entire system and how different parts interact with one another but does not directly pertain to decentralizing decision-making. 'Visualize and limit WIP, reduce batch sizes, and manage queue lengths' is associated with Lean-Agile principles to improve workflow and productivity but not specifically about decision-making. 'Base milestones on objective evaluation of working systems' refers to a principle focused on ensuring that progress is measured based on real-world working systems rather than just documents or meetings, which again, while important, is separate from the principle of decentralizing decision-making.

Correct Answer: Guide architectural runway construction for solution development

In the Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe), a key responsibility of the System Architect/Engineer is to guide the construction of the architectural runway. This includes ensuring that there is a technical foundation to support upcoming business features without excessive delays and rework. This role contributes technical guidance and infrastructure that facilitates the implementation of value in a Lean-Agile manner. The responsibility of directing daily stand-ups typically falls under the purview of the Scrum Master or the Agile Team. Stand-ups are a part of the team's routine to ensure progress and identify hurdles, not directly an Architect's responsibility. Prioritizing features for the Product Backlog is generally done by the Product Owner or Product Manager. They gauge the value of the features based on the business needs and work with the System Architect for the technical aspects. The distribution of the budget among scrum teams is often handled by higher-level management, like Release Train Engineers or Portfolio Managers, since this involves strategic decision-making and not the direct remit of the System Architect/Engineer.

Correct Answer: Align ARTs and Suppliers to deliver complex solutions.

In the Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe), a Solution Train's primary purpose is to align multiple Agile Release Trains (ARTs) and suppliers to deliver large, complex solutions that cannot be achieved by a single ART alone. The Solution Train coordinates the efforts of several ARTs, manages interdependencies, and ensures that all parties are aligned toward the common objectives of the solution. Coordinating team members within a single ART to improve sprint outcomes is the responsibility of the ART itself, not the Solution Train. Monitoring portfolio-level risks and dependencies across multiple ARTs is handled at the portfolio level, which focuses on strategic alignment and investment funding, rather than the operational coordination managed by the Solution Train. Managing and aligning financial budgets for all ARTs in the organization is also a portfolio-level function and not the primary purpose of a Solution Train.