Measuring Outcomes in SAFe: A Crucial Step to Success

Evaluating the success of a development organisation hinges largely on accurately measuring outcomes. This crucial step helps us determine whether we're truly achieving the anticipated business benefits. Let's dive into the variety of methods and metrics that the SAFe framework uses to ensure effective outcome measurement.

KPIs and OKRs:

In the context of SAFe portfolios, Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and Strategic Themes are used to measure outcomes.

KPIs are quantifiable measures that track business results linked directly to the value streams within the portfolio. These are tailored to match the specifics of the organisation, its business model, and the nature of the solutions delivered.

Strategic Themes, defined in terms of Objectives and Key Results (OKRs), pinpoint the exact outcomes the portfolio aims to achieve in the future. These OKRs are usually measured quarterly, providing a clear pathway towards strategic goals.

Value Stream KPIs and OKRs:

Value streams within a large portfolio may have specific KPIs aligned with the portfolio's strategic themes. Specific OKRs can also be established for each value stream, aligning the goals further with strategic objectives. This approach allows individuals at all levels to see how their work directly influences key results.

Employee Engagement:

Employee engagement is a key internal metric for measuring outcomes. It assesses the level of motivation and active participation of individuals in supporting the organisation's goals and values.

High levels of employee engagement can drive productivity, efficiency, and innovation. On the flip side, lower engagement can lead to sub-standard work and a higher staff turnover rate.

Various techniques are available to measure employee engagement, such as annual surveys or Employee Net Promoter Scores (eNPS). The data gathered helps highlight areas for improvement and can shape initiatives aimed at enhancing employee engagement levels.

Iteration Goals and PI Objectives:

Iteration Goals and Programme Increment (PI) Objectives are local metrics that teams use to track their progress towards achieving outcomes.?

These metrics ensure alignment with customer and business needs, provide progress feedback, aid in prioritisation, and help with the acceptance of work.

The establishment of effective outcome metrics requires close cooperation between trains, value streams, portfolios, and business partners. This collaboration ensures that the defined metrics accurately reflect the business benefits resulting from solution investments.

By using these outcome measurement practices, organisations can collect valuable insights, track progress, and continually enhance their ability to deliver the desired business outcomes.

Stay tuned for our next article, where we will delve into the fascinating topic of measuring flow. Subscribe to our newsletter to receive updates directly in your inbox.

Source: ? Scaled Agile, Inc. https://scaledagileframework.com/business-agility/