In the world of Agile, continuous improvement is the name of the game. It's about adapting to change, learning from experiences, and enhancing processes to deliver better value, faster. The Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) is no stranger to this ethos. The recent transition from SAFe 5.1 to SAFe6.0 brings with it a set of fine-tuned adjustments aimed at streamlining operations and embracing modern technological advancements. Let's dive into what has changed, and what remains the cornerstone of this popular Agile framework.
A Fresh Linguistic Coat: Terminology Updates
Language is pivotal in ensuring clear communication within a framework. SAFe 6.0 has fine-tuned some terminologies to better reflect the framework's essence. The term "program" has now given way to "ART" (Agile Release Train), bringing along a cascade of related term alterations. For instance, "Program Backlog" morphs into "ART Backlog," "Program Board" transforms to "ART Planning Board," and "Program risk" evolves into "ART risk." These changes not only align with the framework's nomenclature but also pave the way for clearer, more precise communication.
Trimming the Excess: Content Slim-Down
In a bid to make the learning curve less steep, SAFe 6.0 has pared down some content from its predecessor. The trimming primarily occurred in Lesson 1, where slides discussing business agility competencies have been omitted. This content slim-down aims at removing redundancy and focusing on the crux of the framework's principles.
Leaning Towards Efficiency: A Shift in Focus
While SAFe 5.1 had its gaze fixed on the SAFe House of Lean in Lesson 2, its successor, SAFe 6.0, shifts the focus towards lean thinking principles. These principles, although present in the previous version, now take center stage, driving home the essence of delivering value efficiently.
Fine-Tuning the Framework: Minor Adjustments
SAFe 6.0 isn't just about subtractions; it also introduces some new elements. For instance, a slide related to Kotter’s 8-step process finds its place in the new version. Additionally, some content has been refactored to enhance its flow and coherence, making the learning journey more seamless for practitioners.
Bolstering Business Agility: A Step Up
One of the hallmarks of SAFe 6.0 is its emphasis on strengthening the foundation for Business Agility. This new version identifies six primary themes geared towards enhancing agility in the business landscape, setting the stage for organizations to thrive in the digital age.
Embracing the Future: Integration of Advanced Technologies
SAFe 6.0 also accelerates the adoption of cutting-edge technologies like AI, Big Data, and Cloud, by expanding guidance on integrating these technologies into value streams. This sets the stage for future guidance on key technologies that can keep organizations competitive.
In Summary
The leap from SAFe 5.1 to 6.0, although not monumental, reflects a conscious effort to refine the framework, making it more robust and attuned to modern organizational needs.
