Becoming a safe Agilist refers to becoming skilled in the Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe), which is a popular framework for implementing Agile practices at an enterprise level.

Before getting into the topic of how to become a SAFe Agilist, you need to know more about the Scaled Agile Framework.

The Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) is a comprehensive and widely adopted framework for implementing Agile practices at scale within large enterprises.
SAFe provides a structured approach to aligning teams, improving collaboration, and delivering value to customers in a complex and dynamic business environment.
It integrates Agile principles, Lean thinking, and product development flow to help organizations achieve better outcomes, faster time-to-market, and enhanced quality.

SAFe is designed to address the challenges that arise when Agile methodologies, initially meant for small teams, need to be applied across multiple teams, departments, and even entire organizations.
It provides a set of guidelines, roles, practices, and ceremonies that facilitate the coordination and synchronization of work across various levels of an organization.

The framework is structured into four levels:

Team Level: This is where individual Agile teams operate using Scrum, Kanban, or other Agile methodologies. Teams work on user stories, develop features, and ensure that work is completed iteratively and collaboratively.

Program Level: At this level, multiple Agile teams are organized into a larger entity called an Agile Release Train (ART). The ART follows a fixed cadence (usually 8-12 weeks) and delivers a solution that aligns with business goals.

Large Solution Level: When multiple ARTs are required to deliver a more complex solution, they are coordinated through the Large Solution Level. This level ensures that the various ARTs work together effectively and that the solution is cohesive.

Portfolio Level: This is the strategic level where investment decisions are made based on business objectives and the market’s needs. It involves prioritizing and funding initiatives that align with the organization’s strategic goals.

SAFe introduces several roles, including the Product Owner, Scrum Master, Release Train Engineer, and Chief Product Owner, among others. These roles have specific responsibilities that help ensure effective collaboration, continuous improvement, and alignment with the organization’s objectives.

In summary, SAFe addresses the challenges of scaling Agile across large organizations by providing a structured framework that enables teams to work collaboratively, deliver value more rapidly, and adapt to changing market conditions. Becoming a SAFe Agilist involves gaining a deep understanding of this framework, its principles, practices, and roles, and being able to effectively guide and facilitate Agile transformations within an enterprise context.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to become a SAFe Agilist:

1. Understand Agile and Lean Principles:
Gain a thorough understanding of the Agile Manifesto and its twelve principles. Recognize the importance of iterative development, customer collaboration, and responding to change. Study Lean principles, which focus on eliminating waste, delivering value, and optimizing processes.

2. Study SAFe Framework:
Dive deeper into the various levels of the SAFe framework: Team, Program, and Portfolio. Learn about the roles and responsibilities associated with each level, such as the Product Owner, Scrum Master, Release Train Engineer, and Chief Product Owner. Understand how SAFe’s ceremonies, artifacts, and practices facilitate alignment, collaboration, and value delivery.

3. Attend SAFe Training:
When attending the SAFe Agilist (SA) training course, absorb the content provided by experienced trainers. Engage in discussions, ask questions, and clarify any doubts. The training often includes interactive exercises and case studies, allowing you to apply concepts to real-world scenarios.

4. Earn SAFe Agilist Certification:
To succeed in the SAFe Agile certification exam, focus on the key areas covered in the training. This includes knowledge about SAFe principles, practices, roles, and ceremonies. Practice with sample exam questions to get a sense of the exam format and to gauge your readiness.

5. Practice and Apply:
Apply SAFe principles and practices in your work environment. Participate in SAFe implementation efforts, whether as a Scrum Master, Agile Coach, or team member. Learn how to address challenges that arise during the adoption process and tailor SAFe practices to suit your organization’s needs.

6. Stay Updated:
Follow SAFe’s official website and newsletters for updates on new versions, improvements, and case studies. Attend SAFe events, webinars, and conferences to stay informed about the latest trends and best practices in the field.

7. Collaborate and Share Knowledge:
Engage with online SAFe communities, forums, and social media groups. Share your experiences, ask questions, and learn from the experiences of others. Participate in local meetups and user groups to connect with practitioners in your area.

8. Continuous Learning:
Explore other Agile frameworks and methodologies beyond SAFe, such as Scrum, Kanban, and Lean Startup. Understand their principles, benefits, and when they might be more suitable for certain contexts.

9. Build Soft Skills:
Develop your communication, facilitation, coaching, and conflict-resolution skills. Effective interpersonal skills are essential for guiding teams, facilitating discussions, and fostering a culture of collaboration.

10. Lead Transformations:
As a SAFe Agilist, take on leadership roles in Agile transformations. Use your expertise to mentor teams, provide guidance to management, and ensure alignment between different levels of the organization. Adapt your approach based on the organization’s unique challenges and culture.

Remember that becoming a proficient SAFe Agilist requires a combination of theoretical knowledge, practical experience, and continuous improvement. Embrace a growth mindset, be open to feedback, and be willing to adapt your approach as you gain more experience in applying SAFe principles to various scenarios.

Also read: SAFe Agilist Certification Cost