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Scaled Agile Framework is relatively a new approach compared to other mechanisms used previously for software development. But this “new kid on the block” has penetrated as an effective management framework for other industries too. Typically used for software development, this technique actually focuses on user requirements, a collaboration between teams, centralized decision making, and deliverance. The agile framework makes it a faster and more organized process.
This methodology breaks the project into phases or tasks. The teams or train as they are called, are assigned the task as per their expertise and members. Frequent reassessment and adaptation of plans make it possible to manage the project development. The key point to understand here is that Agile is a philosophy of project management and under this umbrella, there are different methods like Scrum, eXtreme Programming, The crystal Method, etc.
What is SAFe 5?
The SAFe framework came out in 2011. Previously it was called Agile Enterprise Big Picture. The entire SAFe knowledge base is free and it is currently the most popular Agile Framework available. SAFe 5.0 is the latest update of the framework that focuses on making the company into an Agile business enterprise. It is compatible with the older version SAFe 4.6 making transferring to the newer version easier.
SAFe 5 focuses on seven core competencies as milestones towards business agility. The two new competencies are called Organizational Agility and Continous Learning Culture. As per them, you can focus on business improvement by creating a synced integrated culture and execution engine. The seven core competencies that are SAFe 5 features are:
Enterprise solution delivery
Lean portfolio management
Agile product delivery
Organizational agility
Team and technical agility
Lean-Agile leadership
Continuous learning culture
Pros of SAFe 5.0:
It has built-in quality assurance practices ensuring fast and effective results as compared to slow and sloppy performances of teams when not using agile frameworks. Low quality work will require excessive re-attempts to complete the job wasting the most precious resource called time.
It is most suitable for larger projects rather than small work. Complex projects involving multiple teams where you have to juggle a lot of aspects and also keep an eye on the bigger picture are best handled by SAFe.
Agile Frameworks create a team-centric environment where the teams are cross-functional and self-organizational. This open communication and transparency encourage a positive relationship between teams and their members, helping them to thrive and achieve goals.
The biggest benefit of using this framework is that it brings efficiency and efficacy to your business. And this is true for every aspect of the business including development, collaboration, and marketing.
Cons of SAFe 5.0:
It doesn’t offer flexibility to the developers as some other agile platforms do. It has layers of administration and coordination oversights that make it more like the old waterfall methodology. Where it definitely helps larger enterprises by managing multiple projects simultaneously, but it takes the freedom of developers away. Freedom of identifying and solving problems arising due to different system dependencies.
It does not include the three main players of software development; the developers, testers, and customers from the decision-making process. They have no role in deciding how the project should move ahead. This can obstruct their understanding of the project and development strategy.
The Final Thought:
SAFe 5.0 brings a new organized and well-collaborated business management solution for you. Handling projects and software development becomes more centralized and planned. We all know that software development is a long and tedious process that involves a number of frontline players. Agile frameworks make this process controlled, fast, and according to the requirements of the customers. There are a few drawbacks but they can be managed and overcome. SAFe is the most sought out agile framework for software development and project management. But choosing it depends on how well you understand your options and requirements of the organization.

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