In 30 seconds
- A name used for SAFe around versions 4.6 and 5.
- Emphasizes business agility beyond IT.
- Built around core competencies of the lean enterprise.
What the name means
Scaled Agile, Inc. used "SAFe for Lean Enterprises" for its framework around versions 4.6 and 5, to stress that SAFe covers the whole business, not just software delivery. Later versions are simply called SAFe.
Core competencies
The framework was organized around competencies such as lean-agile leadership, team and technical agility, agile product delivery, enterprise solution delivery, lean portfolio management, organizational agility and a continuous learning culture.
How it relates to SAFe today
The ideas carry forward into current SAFe. Configurations remain Essential, Large Solution, Portfolio and Full SAFe.
Myth vs reality
Myth · It's a separate framework from SAFe.
Reality · It's a name for SAFe itself in certain versions.
Myth · Lean enterprise means cost-cutting.
Reality · It means flow, value and learning.
Myth · It only applies to IT.
Reality · Its point was business-wide agility.
FAQ
Which version should we follow?
The current SAFe version from Scaled Agile, Inc.
What's business agility?
The ability of a whole business to respond quickly to change.
Do certifications differ?
Certifications track current SAFe versions.