In 30 seconds
- A SAFe role for large, cross-cutting initiatives.
- Writes the epic hypothesis and lean business case.
- Works with trains to deliver it in increments.
Responsibilities
- Define the epic and its hypothesis
- Prepare a lean business case, including an MVP
- Present it through the portfolio's approval process
- Work with Agile Release Trains to deliver it
Where it fits
Epics in SAFe are large initiatives that usually span several trains or Program Increments. They're managed through lean portfolio management. The Epic Owner is accountable for steering the epic, not doing the work.
Good practice
Test the hypothesis early, deliver value in slices such as MBIs, and be ready to stop the epic if the evidence says so.
Myth vs reality
Myth · The Epic Owner manages the teams.
Reality · They coordinate; teams manage their own work.
Myth · Every epic must finish.
Reality · Epics should stop if the hypothesis fails.
Myth · It's a full-time role.
Reality · Often it's part of another job.
FAQ
Who can be an Epic Owner?
Often a product manager, business owner or architect.
What's a lean business case?
A short document with the hypothesis, MVP, costs and benefits.
Is this role used outside SAFe?
The idea exists; the title is SAFe's.