Scaled Agile vs Disciplined Agile

Scaled and disciplined agile are two approaches to implementing agile software development at an enterprise level. Both approaches aim to help organisations adapt to changing business needs by delivering value through rapid iteration and continuous delivery. However, some critical differences between the two approaches are worth noting.

One key difference between scaled agile and disciplined agile is the scope of each approach. Scaled agile focuses on implementing agile practices within large organisations. In contrast, disciplined agile takes a broader view of the overall enterprise ecosystem and focuses on helping organisations adopt agile practices at all levels, from individual teams to the overall enterprise.

Scaled Agile:

Scaled Agile is an approach to implementing agile software development practices within large organisations. It is based on the Agile Manifesto, a set of values and principles for agile software development. It is designed to help organisations adapt to changing business needs by delivering value through rapid iteration and continuous delivery. Scaled agile is typically implemented using frameworks such as Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) or Large-Scale Scrum (LeSS). These frameworks provide a set of practices and guidelines for organisations to implement agile at scale. These practices may include agile ceremonies, such as stand-ups and retrospectives, and agile practices, such as continuous integration, delivery, and test-driven development.

Disciplined Agile:

Disciplined agile is an approach to adopting agile practices within an organisation that takes a broader view of the enterprise ecosystem. It recognises that different organisations have different needs and may require different approaches to agile implementation. Rather than prescribing specific practices or frameworks, disciplined agile provides a set of principles and guidelines for organisations to follow as they adopt agile practices. These principles include collaboration and transparency, focusing on delivering value to customers, and adapting to change. Disciplined agile also recognises that organisations may need to adopt various approaches to implement agile effectively, encouraging organisations to be flexible and adaptable.

Another key difference is the level of rigour and formality of each approach. For example, scaled agile tend to be more formal and prescriptive, with a clear set of practices and frameworks organisations must follow to implement agile at scale. On the other hand, Disciplined agile is more flexible and adaptable, recognising that different organisations have different needs and, therefore, may require different approaches to agile implementation.

A third key difference is each approach's level of support and guidance. For example, scaled agile provides organisations with a more comprehensive set of tools, frameworks, and guidelines. In contrast, disciplined agile takes a more hands-off approach, offering guidance and principles rather than specific practices or frameworks.

Which Approach is Right for Your Company?

When considering whether to adopt scaled or disciplined agile, it is essential to consider the needs and goals of your organisation. Here are some factors to consider when deciding which approach might be the best fit for your company:

• Size: Scaled agile is specifically designed for large organisations, so if your company is on the smaller side, disciplined agile might be a better fit. On the other hand, scaled agile could be a good choice if you are a large organisation with multiple teams and a need to coordinate work across different departments and functions.
• Culture: Scaled agile might be a good fit if your organisation values structure and predictability. Its formal frameworks and practices can provide a clear roadmap for implementing agile at scale. On the other hand, if your organisation values flexibility and adaptability, disciplined agile might be a better fit, as it provides general principles rather than specific practices or frameworks.
• Goals: If your goal is to implement agile practices as quickly and efficiently as possible, scaled agile might be the right choice, as it provides a more comprehensive set of tools and guidelines. On the other hand, if you are more interested in building a culture of agility that can adapt to changing business needs over time, disciplined agile might be a better fit, as it focuses on helping organisations adopt agile practices at all enterprise levels.

Overall, scaled and disciplined agile can be practical approaches to implementing agile at the enterprise level. However, the right approach for your organisation will depend on your specific needs and goals. For example, scaled agile might be the right choice if you are a large organisation looking for a formal and prescriptive approach to implementing agile at scale. On the other hand, if you are a smaller organisation looking for a more flexible and adaptable approach to agile implementation, disciplined agile could be a good fit. Ultimately, the key is to find an approach that works for your organisation and helps you deliver value to your customers through rapid iteration and continuous delivery.

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