Agile methodologies have become essential for organizations seeking to stay competitive and responsive to change. Two prominent frameworks, "Leading SAFe" and "Implementing SAFe," both associated with the Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe), offer guidance for enterprises looking to scale Agile practices beyond individual teams. In this guide, we will explore the key differences between Leading SAFe and Implementing SAFe, without getting lost in jargon, to help you make an informed choice for your Agile transformation journey.

Understanding Leading SAFe

Leading SAFe often referred to as SAFe Agilist (SA) certification, is primarily designed for executives, managers, and leaders at all levels within an organization. The primary goal is to equip them with the knowledge, skills, and tools necessary to lead Agile transformation effectively. Leading SAFe provides a high-level overview of the Scaled Agile Framework. It covers SAFe principles, Lean-Agile mindset, and how to apply these concepts at an organizational level. This program is particularly valuable for those responsible for strategic planning and driving the cultural change needed for Agile transformation. Successful completion of Leading SAFe leads to SAFe Agilist (SA) certification, acknowledging your understanding of SAFe principles and your ability to apply them at an organizational level. The Leading SAFe course typically spans two days and is typically delivered in a classroom setting.

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Understanding Implementing SAFe

Implementing SAFe, often pursued for SAFe Practitioner (SP) certification, is geared towards individuals who are more directly involved in Agile operations. This includes teams, Scrum Masters, Product Owners, Release Train Engineers (RTEs), and others responsible for day-to-day Agile execution. Unlike Leading SAFe, which provides a high-level overview, Implementing SAFe delves into the nitty-gritty details of Agile implementation. It offers practical guidance on how to effectively implement Agile practices, manage teams, and execute Agile Release Trains (ARTs). Completion of the Implementing SAFe workshop leads to SAFe Practitioner (SP) certification, which signifies your practical skills in executing Agile within your organization. Implementing SAFe workshops are available in both online and in-person formats, offering flexibility in choosing your preferred learning mode. Similar to Leading SAFe, Implementing SAFe typically spans two days.

Also Read: SAFe Agilist vs SAFe Practitioner

Choosing Between Leading SAFe and Implementing SAFe

The choice between Leading SAFe and Implementing SAFe largely depends on your role within the organization and your specific goals for Agile transformation.

Choose Leading SAFe If:

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Choose Implementing SAFe If:

Let us discuss each point in detail- 

Focus

• Leading SAFe:
  Leading SAFe places a strong emphasis on leadership and change agents within an organization. It targets       individuals in executive, managerial, and leadership roles who are pivotal in driving Agile transformation.
• Implementing SAFe:  
  In contrast, Implementing SAFe shifts its focus towards team and program execution. It's designed for those    directly involved in Agile operations, including teams, Scrum Masters, Product Owners, and Release Train Engineers (RTEs).

Also Read: What is OKRs in Agile?

Target Audience

• Leading SAFe:
  The primary audience for Leading SAFe includes executives, managers, and leaders at all levels of an organization. It caters to those who need to spearhead and champion Agile transformation efforts.
• Implementing SAFe:
  Implementing SAFe is tailored for individuals at the operational level. This includes team members, Scrum Masters, Product Owners, and RTEs, who are responsible for the day-to-day execution of Agile practices.

Also Read: Implementing SAFe in Lean Enterprises

Purpose

• Leading SAFe:
  Leading SAFe is designed to provide knowledge, skills, and tools for leaders to effectively lead Agile transformation efforts. It equips them with an understanding of SAFe principles and the ability to apply them strategically.
• Implementing SAFe:
  Implementing SAFe focuses on facilitating Agile Release Train (ART) execution and day-to-day Agile operations. It provides practical guidance for successfully implementing Agile practices within teams and programs.

Certification

• Leading SAFe:
  Successful completion of Leading SAFe results in the SAFe Agilist (SA) certification. This certification recognizes your comprehension of SAFe principles at an organizational level.
• Implementing SAFe:
  Implementing SAFe leads to the SAFe Practitioner (SP) certification, acknowledging your practical skills in executing Agile within your organization.

Also Read: SAFe 5.1 Vs 6.0

Content Depth

• Leading SAFe:
  Leading SAFe offers a high-level overview of the Scaled Agile Framework. It provides insight into SAFe principles, the Lean-Agile mindset, and their application at an organizational level.
• Implementing SAFe:
  Implementing SAFe delves into the detailed execution of Agile. It provides practical guidance on how to implement Agile practices effectively, manage Agile teams, and execute Agile Release Trains (ARTs).

Also Read: Four Levels Of Scaled Agile Framework

Training Format

• Leading SAFe:
• Leading SAFe workshops are typically delivered in a classroom-based format, allowing for face-to-face interactions with instructors and peers.
• Implementing SAFe:
  Implementing SAFe workshops offers flexibility in training format, with options for both online and in-person workshops to cater to individual preferences.

Also Read: Why Leading SAFe is Key For US Healthcare Industry?

Training Duration

• Leading SAFe:
  Leading SAFe workshops typically span a duration of two days, offering a comprehensive introduction to SAFe principles.
• Implementing SAFe:
  Similar to Leading SAFe, Implementing SAFe workshops are also typically conducted over a two-day period.

Prerequisites

• Leading SAFe:
  Leading SAFe does not have specific prerequisites, making it accessible to a wide range of participants.
• Implementing SAFe:
  Implementing SAFe, like Leading SAFe, does not have prerequisites, ensuring that team members and Agile practitioners can participate.

Read More: SAFe Scrum Master Interview Questions

Key Takeaways

• Leading SAFe:
  The primary takeaway from Leading SAFe is a deep understanding of SAFe principles and how to apply them at an organizational level. It equips leaders with the knowledge needed for strategic planning and cultural change.
• Implementing SAFe:
  Implementing SAFe workshops provides participants with practical skills for Agile transformation and day-to-day Agile operations. The focus is on hands-on application within teams and programs.

Applicability

• Leading SAFe
  Leading SAFe is applicable to strategic planning and leadership development. It equips leaders to initiate and sustain Agile transformation initiatives within an organization.
• Implementing SAFe
  Implementing SAFe is more applicable to day-to-day Agile operations. It is geared towards Agile teams, Scrum Masters, Product Owners, and RTEs who execute Agile practices.

Key Deliverables

• Leading SAFe:
  The key deliverable of Leading SAFe is the SAFe Agilist (SA) certification, which validates your understanding of SAFe principles and their application at an organizational level.
• Implementing SAFe:
  Completing Implementing SAFe workshops results in the SAFe Practitioner (SP) certification, which recognizes your practical skills in executing Agile practices within your organization.

Also Read: SAFe DevOps

Which is an Idea Choice, Leading SAFe or Implementing SAFe?

Your choice between Leading SAFe and Implementing SAFe should align with your role within the organization and your specific goals for Agile transformation.

Leading SAFe is Ideal If:

• You hold an executive, managerial, or leadership position responsible for strategic planning and driving cultural change.
• Your primary focus is on leadership and change management.
• You aim to attain SAFe Agilist (SA) certification, signifying your ability to lead Agile transformation at an organizational level.

Implementing SAFe is Ideal If:

• You are a team member, Scrum Master, Product Owner, RTE, or actively involved in Agile operations.
• Your focus is on executing Agile practices within teams and facilitating Agile Release Trains (ARTs).
• You seek SAFe Practitioner (SP) certification, acknowledging your practical skills in Agile implementation.

Also Read: SAFe Agilist Vs SAFe Scrum Master 

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the differences between Leading SAFe and Implementing SAFe is essential for making an informed choice in your Agile transformation journey. Leading SAFe equips leaders and change agents with the knowledge and tools needed for strategic planning and cultural change, paving the way for SAFe certification, such as SAFe Agile Certification or SAFe Agilist Certification. In contrast, Implementing SAFe provides practical guidance for executing Agile practices within teams and programs, which can be instrumental in achieving your SAFe certification goals. Both paths have their merits, and the choice should align with your role and objectives. The success of your Agile transformation depends on selecting the right approach that suits your organization's needs and your personal development goals. Whether you're leading the transformation or actively participating in Agile operations, there's a SAFe certification path, such as SAFe Agilist Certification, that's right for you. Also learn more information about SAFe implementation Roadmap.

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