The Scaled Agile Framework® is now the benchmark for the implementation of agile practices on a larger scale. If you’re a Scrum Master or Product Owner, an Agile Coach or a business manager, learning and improving your knowledge of SAFe is a great way to boost your professional career path and allow your company to thrive in an ever-changing, technologically-driven market. What exactly is the best way to learn to advance their SAFe skills? This step-by-step process will guide you through the continuous improvement and expertise within the SAFe ecosystem.
1. Master the Fundamentals
Before considering any complex job role, you must have an understanding of the fundamental concepts and structures of SAFe. Begin by gaining an understanding of Lean-Agile’s values and the seven SAFe fundamental competencies, and the configuration levels for the framework, including Essential SAFe, Large Solution SAFe, and Portfolio SAFe.
The Leading SAFe® certification is typically the initial step for professionals. It offers a basic understanding of the principles, role, practices, and roles within the Framework. This certification will enable learners to facilitate agile changes and assist agile teams and initiatives.
2. Apply Knowledge on Real Projects
The theory of learning is one thing; however, using it in the real world is where the real growth in skill takes place. Be involved with the implementation of SAFe within your company. Take part in the Program Increment (PI) planning as well as work with Agile Release Trains (ARTs) to gain experience in coordination, synchronisation and delivering value on a larger scale.
Participating in SAFe activities such as Inspect & Adapt, System Demos, and Planning in the PI Planning helps to deepen the understanding of the way theory and practice interact within dynamic team environments.
Each role has specific responsibilities in the SAFe framework. Through pursuing certifications for specific roles, they not only increase your technical expertise but also improve standing in agile companies.
3. Develop Leadership and Coaching Capabilities
When you progress in your SAFe work environment and become more senior, stepping into the role of coaching or leadership is a great contribution. Agile coaches, Release Train Engineers (RTEs) and Lean Portfolio Managers have crucial functions in the scaling of the agility of business divisions.
For instance, SAFe RTE Certification has been specifically designed for individuals who wish to develop into servant leaders and coaches in Agile Release Trains. RTEs assist in ART events and procedures and assist teams in delivering the value. The certificate allows experts to coordinate multi-team collaboration and improve value delivery on the scale needed to be a vital ability for big companies.
4. Specialise in a Role
When you’re comfortable with the basics of SAFe and have gained some actual experience, you’re now able to look into specialised roles. SAFe has certifications based on roles that will help you develop your expertise in a particular field. As an example:
- Scrum Master in SAFe (SSM)
- Product Owner/Product Manager (POPM)
- Agile Product Management (APM)
- SAFe DevOps Practitioner (SDP)
Conclusion
Enhancing your knowledge of the Scaled Agile Framework is not only a once-off task. It’s an ongoing process of growth in application and practical development of leadership, by combining the appropriate mix of experience, certifications and community involvement. It is possible to establish an enduring foundation and eventually become an essential player in the process of advancing business agility.
