Values in Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe)

How does Scaled Agile Framework incorporate the 4 values namely, alignment, transparency, respect for people, and relentless improvement, throughout the framework especially during PI Planning and Execution of the PI?

Most of learn the values when we learn a framework, but often leave out the values and then move on with just the framework. This article helps to understand the correlation between the values and the framework, especially in the context of Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe).

The Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) incorporates its four core values - alignment, transparency, respect for people, and relentless improvement - throughout the framework, including during PI Planning and Execution. Here’s how:

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Alignment: SAFe promotes alignment by communicating the vision, mission, and strategy from the top of the enterprise through every level, all the way to each individual contributor. During PI Planning, this is achieved by including these elements in the Business Owner briefings followed by the Product Management briefings. This ensures that the work of the Agile Release Train (ART) is consistent with the higher aims of the enterprise and the product context thereof.

Transparency: Transparency is maintained by making all work visible, debated, resolved, and transparent. This is particularly important during PI Planning and Execution, where PI Objectives and Iteration Goals are used to communicate expectations and commitments.

Respect for People: SAFe respects people by promoting a culture of decentralization, where many decisions are made by the teams themselves. This empowers teams and individuals, fostering a sense of ownership and commitment.

Relentless Improvement: SAFe encourages continuous improvement by constantly inspecting and adapting its processes. During PI Execution, this is reflected in the Inspect and Adapt (I&A) workshop, a significant event held at the end of each PI, where teams reflect on their past performance and identify areas for improvement.

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These core values guide the behaviors and actions of everyone participating in a SAFe portfolio, ensuring that the practices in the Framework deliver the intended business results. Without them, the practices in the Framework will inevitably fail to deliver the intended business results.