Understanding Latest Updates in SAFe® 6.0 Agile Framework

The Scaled Agile Framework® (SAFe®) continues to live up to its core principle of continuous improvement with the release of its latest version, SAFe 6.0 Agile framework. This updated iteration is designed to empower teams to deliver better results at a faster pace through a suite of refinements.

Since its initial launch in 2011, SAFe® has gained widespread adoption among enterprises looking to scale their lean-agile practices and principles. Over the years, the framework has evolved through multiple iterations, and SAFe® 6.0 represents a significant overhaul that was released earlier this month.

The anticipation surrounding this latest release is well-founded, as it brings a host of upgrades that elevate the framework to new heights. It includes a comprehensive toolkit that provides practitioners and enterprises with an expanded array of tools and techniques to drive their agile transformations.

It is also testament to the relentless commitment of the framework's creators to continuously improve and adapt to the changing needs of the agile community. With its refined features and enhanced capabilities, SAFe® 6.0 Agile Framework is poised to further empower organizations on their agile journey, enabling them to deliver better outcomes with greater efficiency and speed. 

What are the key updates to take note of in SAFe® 6.0 Agile?

Quick overview of SAFe® 6.0 Agile Certification: 

SAFe® 6.0 has brought significant changes, including new practices, techniques, and content, as well as a fresh look and feel to the Big Picture. One notable update is the simplification and alignment of language across all levels of SAFe. For instance, the term 'Program' has been replaced with 'ART' (Agile Release Train), such as ART Backlog and ART Epic. Additionally, 'PI' now stands for 'Planning Interval'. The role of 'SAFe Program Consultants' has been rebranded as 'SAFe Practice Consultants', and 'PMO' has been changed to 'VMO' (Value Management Office).nnThese changes in terminology aim to streamline communication and ensure consistency throughout the SAFe 6.0 Agile Framework. By using standardized language, teams at all levels can better understand and align with SAFe concepts and practices, facilitating smoother implementation and adoption of SAFe principles across the organization.nnThe update also includes a new look and feel to the Big Picture, the visual representation of the SAFe 6.0 Agile Framework. This refreshed design provides a more modern and intuitive visual representation of the framework, making it easier for practitioners to understand and navigate the various components and relationships within SAFe.nnOverall, the changes introduced in SAFe® 6.0 Agile Framework are aimed at simplifying language, aligning terminology, and enhancing the visual representation of the framework. These updates are intended to improve the overall user experience and make SAFe more accessible and effective for organizations implementing Agile at scale. As with any major update, it is important for practitioners to familiarize themselves with the new changes to ensure they are leveraging the latest best practices and terminology in their implementation of SAFe.

The six themes of SAFe® 6.0 Agile Certification:

SAFe® 6.0 introduces significant changes through six major themes that underscore the framework, shifting the focus towards true business agility and empowering teams while improving flow across all levels of the organization.

Empowering the foundation for Business Agility:

SAFe® 6.0 highlights Business Agility Value Stream (BAVS) as a significant feature, emphasizing the journey from identifying opportunities to delivering the most suitable solutions for enterprises. The SAFe Implementation Roadmap has been revised, and the roles and responsibilities of SAFe Practice Consultants (previously known as SAFe Program Consultants) have been clarified to provide enhanced support in navigating organizational change.

Strengthening teams and clarifying responsibilities:

All roles depicted in the SAFe Big Picture have been revamped to incorporate new 'responsibility wheels', providing a concise and transparent overview of the main responsibilities associated with each role. This enables individuals to better comprehend their roles and enhance their job performance. For instance, the updated SAFe Scrum Master/Team Coach article delineates expanded responsibilities that can contribute to improved support for the organization's goals.

Speeding-up value flow:

SAFe® 6.0 further emphasizes the concept of multithreading and introduces four new elements of multithreading to the framework. These documents provide detailed guidance on how to apply flow principles at all levels of SAFe, including Portfolio, Solutions, Agile Release Training (ART), and Teams. Combined with current practices, these articles provide a roadmap for improving the way organizations work.

Boosting Business Agility within business:

Recognizing that major changes in SAFe have broader organizational implications than simple fixes, SAFe 6.0 5 introduces a corporate and technological style that works on corporate agility across the organization. These models include business-ready Agile Release Trains (ARTs), business train initiation, agile teams, use of SAFe for multiple business functions, and consolidation of operational and upgrade cost flows into balance.

Developing future with latest technologies:

Recognizing the profound changes taking place in the digital landscape, SAFe 6.0 embraces an enhanced guidance for the seamless integration of AI, big data, and cloud technologies into value streams. These technologies have become indispensable for staying competitive in both the current and future business landscape, and their inclusion in the SAFe 6.0 Agile Framework underscores their strategic significance going forward.

Ensuring better output delivery with measure, grow and OKRs:

SAFe 6.0 provides extensive advice on Objectives and Key Results (OKRs) along with improved instruments for assessing competence and flow. These refinements are designed to empower teams in delivering superior outcomes, not just in building solutions, but also in driving successful SAFe transformations.

Why Choose SAFe 6.0 Agile Framework?

SAFe 6.0 is centered on empowering teams to work with enhanced efficiency and effectiveness, leading to accelerated and superior outcomes. With a focus on prioritizing flow, SAFe 6.0 enables organizations to fully realize the benefits of business agility and embrace new opportunities and challenges in today's fast-paced market. This latest version equips you with the necessary tools to optimize the framework and maintain a competitive advantage.nnFor comprehensive guidance on SAFe® 6.0 Training with SAFe Agile Certification or to further enhance your SAFe skills, feel free to contact our experts through our online inquiry form or email us at enquiry@vinsys.com