Scaled Agile (SAFe)

Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) is a methodology designed to help organizations implement agile practices at enterprise scale. SAFe provides a structured approach for applying agile principles across multiple teams while maintaining alignment with business objectives. SAFe organizes work into various levels: 1. Team level: Cross-functional teams use Scrum or Kanban to deliver value iteratively. 2. Program level: Multiple teams form an Agile Release Train (ART) that works synchronously in Program Increments (PIs), typically 8-12 weeks long. 3. Portfolio level: Strategic themes and value streams guide investment decisions and resource allocation. 4. Optional Large Solution level: For complex systems requiring multiple ARTs. Key SAFe elements include: - PI Planning: A face-to-face event where all teams plan the next increment together. - System Demo: Regular demonstrations of integrated work from all teams. - Inspect & Adapt workshop: Retrospective at the program level to drive continuous improvement. - DevOps integration: Emphasis on continuous delivery pipeline. - Lean-Agile principles: Foundation based on Lean thinking and agile practices. SAFe incorporates roles such as Release Train Engineers (RTEs) who facilitate program-level processes, Product Managers who manage program backlogs, and System Architects who provide technical guidance. Benefits of SAFe include: - Alignment of work to business objectives across the organization - Predictable delivery through synchronized planning - Improved quality through built-in practices - Enhanced collaboration across teams - Standardized processes for scaling Challenges can include its comprehensive structure that some find overly prescriptive and the significant organizational change required for implementation. For PMI-ACP candidates, understanding SAFe provides insight into how agile practices scale beyond individual teams to enterprise-level implementation.

Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) is a methodology designed to help organizations implement agile practices at enterprise scale. SAFe provides a structured approach for applying agile principles across m…

Concepts covered: Agile Product Delivery, Continuous Delivery Pipeline, Agile Architecture, Enterprise Solution Delivery, Lean Portfolio Management, Continuous Learning Culture, Lean Systems Engineering, Agile Release Train, Organizational Agility, Team and Technical Agility, DevOps and Release on Demand, Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe), Lean Agile Mindset