Guide to Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe)
The Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) is an extensive set of organization and workflow patterns for implementing agile practices at enterprise scale. The framework is a body of knowledge that includes structured guidance on roles and responsibilities, planning, managing, and delivering solutions.
It is important to study and understand SAFe because of its wide adoption in large businesses. Its structure provides a method to scale Agile development to programs and portfolios of larger organizations.
How it works: SAFe synchronizes alignment, collaboration, and delivery across multiple agile teams. Key steps include: 1. Teams, programs, and portfolio each have an iterative process that they follow. 2. A program increment (PI) planning aligns all teams on a mission for the next increment. 3. Execution occurs where teams develop and deliver in two-week iterations and incorporate feedback. 4. Innovation and planning iteration allow for teams to have downtime in order to innovate, plan, and learn.
Exam tips: For the test, focus on understanding the various roles, responsibilities, artifacts, and ceremonies. Be able to explain how SAFe differs from Scrum as well as how it builds upon it. Remember the components of the SAFe Big Picture, and understand how they all fit together. Remember, SAFe applies Lean and Agile principles to the organizational level.
When answering questions, be succinct and go straight to the point. Understand the context in which the questions are framed. Also, familiarize yourself with SAFe lexicon.