Leading SAFe Vs SAFe Agilist: The Difference

In the realm of agile methodologies, the Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) has become a prominent choice for enterprises looking to implement agile practices across large organizations. Two terms often come up in this context: SAFe Agilist and Leading SAFe. Although they might sound similar, they refer to different aspects of the SAFe framework. In this blog, we will explore the key differences between SAFe Agilist and Leading SAFe, highlighting the significance of each and how they contribute to successful SAFe implementation.

What is Leading SAFe?

Leading SAFe (SA) is a course that prepares individuals to become SAFe Agilist. This training provides a comprehensive understanding of the SAFe framework, its underlying principles, and how to apply them in real-world scenarios. Leading SAFe training is designed for executives, managers, and agile change agents who are responsible for leading the agile transformation in their organizations. The course covers topics such as lean-agile leadership, team and technical agility, agile product delivery, and more.

What is SAFe Agilist?

SAFe Agilist is a certification that signifies an individual’s ability to lead agile transformations using the SAFe framework. It is one of the primary certifications offered by Scaled Agile, Inc., aimed at professionals who are responsible for implementing and managing SAFe in their organizations. A SAFe Agilist has a deep understanding of the principles and practices of SAFe and can effectively lead agile teams, manage program-level initiatives, and ensure alignment across the enterprise.

Key Differences Between SAFe Agilist and Leading SAFe

1. Purpose and Focus

Leading SAFe Training (SA): Focuses on educating and preparing individuals for the SAFe Agilist certification. It provides the knowledge and skills needed to understand and apply the SAFe framework.

SAFe Agilist Certification: Focuses on validating an individual’s expertise in SAFe principles and practices. It certifies that the individual can lead and manage SAFe implementations effectively.

2. Target Audience

Leading SAFe Training (SA): Designed for individuals who are new to SAFe or are looking to deepen their understanding of the framework. It is ideal for executives, managers, agile change agents, and anyone involved in an agile transformation.

SAFe Agilist Certification: Aimed at professionals who have completed the Leading SAFe training and passed the certification exam. It is suitable for agile coaches, program managers, project managers, and executives.

3. Content and Curriculum

Leading SAFe Training: The training provides a detailed introduction to the SAFe framework, its core values, principles, and practices. It includes interactive workshops, practical exercises, and real-world case studies to help participants understand how to implement SAFe in their organizations.

SAFe Agilist Certification: The certification covers a broad range of topics, including lean-agile leadership, team and technical agility, agile product delivery, and enterprise solution delivery. It also emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and improvement.

4. Certification Process

Leading SAFe (SA) Training: The training itself does not confer certification. It is a preparatory course that equips participants with the knowledge and skills needed to pass the SAFe Agilist certification exam.

SAFe Agilist Certification: To become a certified SAFe Agilist, individuals must complete the Leading SAFe training and pass the SAFe Agilist certification exam. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions that assess the individual’s knowledge of SAFe principles and practices.

5. Benefits and Value

Leading SAFe (SA) Training: Completing the Leading SAFe training provides a solid foundation in SAFe and prepares individuals for the SAFe Agilist certification. It helps participants understand the framework, apply it effectively, and contribute to successful agile transformations in their organizations.

SAFe Agilist Certification: Earning the SAFe Agilist certification demonstrates a high level of expertise in SAFe and a commitment to agile principles. It enhances career prospects, provides recognition within the agile community, and opens up opportunities for leadership roles in agile transformations.

How to Choose Between SAFe Agilist and Leading SAFe?

Choosing between SAFe Agilist and Leading SAFe depends on your current role, career aspirations, and your organization’s needs. Here are some pointers to help you decide:

Consider Your Role and Experience

If You Are New to SAFe: If you are new to SAFe or have limited experience with the framework, starting with the Leading SAFe training will provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills to understand and apply SAFe principles.

If You Are an Experienced Agile Practitioner: If you already have experience with agile methodologies and are looking to advance your career by taking on leadership roles in agile transformations, pursuing the SAFe Agilist certification is a good option.

Evaluate Your Career Goals

For Knowledge and Skills Development: If your primary goal is to develop a solid understanding of SAFe and learn how to implement it effectively, completing the Leading SAFe training is a great starting point.

For Career Advancement: If you aim to advance your career in agile leadership, earning the SAFe Agilist certification will provide you with the credentials needed to take on higher-level roles in agile transformations.

Assess Your Organization’s Needs

Team and Leadership Training: If your organization needs to educate and prepare its leaders and teams for a SAFe implementation, investing in Leading SAFe training for key personnel is a crucial step.

Organizational Agile Transformation: If your organization is in the process of an agile transformation or planning to implement SAFe, having certified SAFe Agilist will be valuable for leading and managing the transformation.

Conclusion

Both SAFe Agilist and Leading SAFe play significant roles in the successful implementation of the SAFe framework. While the SAFe Agilist certification validates an individual’s expertise and leadership capabilities, the Leading SAFe training provides the foundational knowledge and skills needed to achieve that certification. Understanding the differences between these two can help you make informed decisions about your agile journey and contribute to your organization’s agile transformation efforts.

AgilityPAD is one of the training institutes that offer training for Leading SAFe® 6.0. If you are interested in taking training from experts AgilityPAD is at your disposal. To explore more information about the Leading SAFe® 6.0 (SA) training offered by the AgilityPAD.