{"id":173256,"date":"2023-11-11T20:44:32","date_gmt":"2023-11-11T19:44:32","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/liora.io\/en\/?p=173256"},"modified":"2026-02-06T08:48:39","modified_gmt":"2026-02-06T07:48:39","slug":"scaled-agile-framework-safe-the-complete-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/liora.io\/en\/scaled-agile-framework-safe-the-complete-guide","title":{"rendered":"Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe): the complete guide"},"content":{"rendered":"

Although agile project management methods are becoming increasingly popular within companies, not all teams use the same methods. So how do you coordinate the work of all your collaborators while maintaining a high level of agility? Simply use the Scaled Agile Framework. What is the Scaled Agile Framework? What are its founding principles? How does SAFe 5.0 work? We’ll answer all your questions.<\/strong><\/p>\t\t\n\t\t\t

What is the Scaled Agile Framework?<\/h3>\t\t\n\t\t

The Scaled Agile Framework SAFe<\/strong> is a knowledge base for companies using agile methodologies in their business.<\/a> The aim is to enable companies to maintain or develop their competitive edge in an increasingly digital world. Thanks to the principles, methods and work systems provided by SAFe, organisations have all the keys in hand to provide their customers with a continuous flow of value.<\/p>\t\t\n\t\t\t

What are the main principles of SAFe?<\/h3>\t\t\n\t\t

As the Scaled Agile Framework<\/strong> is intended to apply to the whole company, these principles apply to all employees (whether they are decision-makers or not).<\/p>\t\t\n\t\t\t

The economic vision<\/h4>\t\t\n\t\t

For SAFe principles<\/strong> to be applied effectively, all employees must adopt an economic vision. Everyone needs to understand the implications of late deliveries, defects and so on.<\/p>

A better understanding of the economic benefits and trade-offs means that tasks can be carried out more smoothly, while respecting budgetary constraints.<\/p>\t\t\n\t\t\t

Systems thinking<\/h4>\t\t\n\t\t

The Scaled Agile Framework<\/strong> encourages employees to take a step back. When they carry out an action, they must always think of its benefit for the solution, the company and the value streams (organisational processes, management, other teams, etc.). Through systems thinking, the aim is to optimise working methods.
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Variability and options<\/h4>\t\t\n\t\t

SAFe is based on the concept of “set based design<\/strong>“. The idea is to consider several options when developing software. Customer needs, the market and technological innovations are constantly evolving. So to deliver a product that meets all expectations, teams have to learn to synchronise with variability.<\/p>\t\t\n\t\t\t

Rapid, integrated learning cycles<\/h4>\t\t\n\t\t

To improve the software,<\/strong> delivery times and\/or reduce costs, teams need to regularly evaluate the product. To do this, the Scaled Agile Framework<\/strong> recommends adopting the PDCA cycle. In other words, plan, do, check and adjust.<\/p>\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

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Objective assessment of work systems<\/h4>\t\t\n\t\t

It involves implementing an evaluation and verification<\/strong> system right from the start of the project. This encourages the development of systems thinking, and therefore of the Agile culture within the company.<\/a><\/p>\t\t\n\t\t\t

Optimising work in progress<\/h4>\t\t\n\t\t

To work effectively, agile teams<\/a> must first visualise all the stages in the process. This enables them to identify methods for optimising the work in progress. For example, reducing the volume of batches, the length of queues or avoiding overlapping tasks.<\/p>\t\t\n\t\t\t

Planning a cadence<\/h4>\t\t\n\t\t

The Scaled Agile Framework<\/strong> encourages the definition of a cadence for all tasks. For example, meetings every morning to assess the work done: what has been done well, what needs to be improved, objectives achieved, objectives not achieved, adjustments to be made, etc.<\/p>\t\t\n\t\t\t

Motivating teams<\/h4>\t\t\n\t\t

As employees are solely responsible for the implementation of an Agile methodology, SAFe encourages leaders to motivate them. This can take the form of personalised coaching, empowering teams, etc.<\/p>\t\t\n\t\t\t

Decentralised decision-making<\/h4>\t\t\n\t\t

With the Scaled Agile Framework<\/strong>, decisions no longer have to be taken by a single decision-making body. Instead, all those involved in the project’s development can contribute their knowledge and point of view to the decision-making process.<\/p>\t\t\n\t\t\t

Values at the heart of corporate strategy<\/h4>\t\t\n\t\t

SAFe is based on 5 fundamental values:<\/p>