In the world of agile project management, two big players stand out: Disciplined Agile® (DA) and the Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe®). But which one is right for your team? Let’s look at the main differences between Disciplined Agile vs. Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) and find out what’s best for you.
Are you curious about what makes these two agile leaders unique? We’ll explore their beginnings, core ideas, and how they work in real life. This will help you choose the best fit for your team.
Key Takeaways
- Disciplined Agile and Scaled Agile Framework are two top agile methods that use lean-agile thinking and practices.
- DA started in 2011 by Scott Ambler and Mark Lines, while SAFe was introduced by Dean Leffingwell in 2012.
- Both offer detailed guidance and structure to make agility work at the program and enterprise levels.
- SAFe is good for big projects with 50-125 team members1, while LeSS works for up to eight teams or a few thousand members1.
- The DA framework has 10 roles, some main and others secondary, based on size1. SAFe has structured scaling with roles, ceremonies, and artifacts for work across teams1.
Introduction to Disciplined Agile and Scaled Agile Framework
In the fast-paced world of software development, two key frameworks stand out: Disciplined Agile (DA) and the Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe). They guide organizations towards agile transformation and enterprise agility. Each offers a unique way to achieve these goals.
Definition and Overview of Disciplined Agile
Disciplined Agile is a flexible approach that lets teams choose the best agile practices for them. It’s not about following a strict method. Instead, it focuses on tailoring the agile journey to fit each team’s needs.
It uses “process blades” to describe common business capabilities. Teams then pick the practices that match their specific goals. This way, they can achieve enterprise agility in a way that works for them.
Definition and Overview of Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe)
The Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) helps organizations grow agile practices across the whole company2. It offers guidance at different levels, from Team to Portfolio. This ensures everyone is working towards the same goals2.
At the heart of SAFe is the Agile Release Train (ART). It’s a team of 75-125 people working together on a common goal. They follow a 2-week cycle and a 10-week Program Increment (PI) cycle2.
Both Disciplined Agile and the Scaled Agile Framework help organizations scale and become more agile. The right choice depends on the organization’s specific needs and goals.
Origins and Development of the Frameworks
The Disciplined Agile (DA) and Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) started at Rational Software and IBM3. DA was created in 2011 by Scott Ambler and Mark Lines, using Scott’s Rational Software experience3. SAFe was introduced by Dean Leffingwell in 2012, also from Rational Software’s legacy4.
DA and SAFe came about a decade after the Agile Manifesto. They aimed to expand lean-agile thinking and include Scrum, Kanban, and DevOps practices3. DA is a mix of practices from SAFe and others, offering advice on how to use them5. SAFe is a detailed guide for big organizations to adopt agile, perfect for complex projects with many teams5.
In 2019, PMI bought the Disciplined Agile framework, boosting its agile offerings3. Today, DA and SAFe keep growing, giving companies ways to scale agile and boost business agility.
| Framework | Focus | Suitability |
|---|---|---|
| Disciplined Agile (DA) | Hybrid toolkit, adopting practices from existing sources | Medium-sized companies |
| Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) | Comprehensive knowledge base for large-scale Agile adoption | Large organizations |
| Large Scale Scrum (LeSS) | Scrum adaptation for big projects, ensuring consistent communication | Small to medium-sized organizations |
The stories of DA and SAFe show how agile methods keep evolving. They help companies adapt and grow with software development’s demands354.
Key Principles and Methodologies
Lean-Agile Thinking and Scrum, Kanban, and DevOps Practices
Disciplined Agile (DA) and Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) both rely on lean-agile thinking. They use Scrum, Kanban, and DevOps to tackle complex issues and boost business agility67.
DA lets teams mix different agile methods to fit their needs. SAFe, on the other hand, gives detailed steps to scale agile practices across the company7.
Comprehensive Guidance and Documentation
DA and SAFe are seen as frameworks or toolkits, not strict rules. They offer detailed guidance and documents to aid in agile transformation and lean-agile practices67.
These frameworks are open source, with all info available to the public. This helps teams and organizations understand and apply them well6.
“Both frameworks are comprehensive, with hundreds of pages of detailed documentation, to support teams and organizations in their agile transformation and adoption of agile practices.”
| Disciplined Agile (DA) | Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) |
|---|---|
| Methodology-agnostic, allowing teams to blend various agile approaches | More prescriptive, offering detailed guidance and structure to scale agile practices |
| Emphasizes flexibility, adaptability, and customization in agile practices | Provides standardization and consistency, appealing to large enterprises |
| Blends Scrum, Kanban, and Lean for a context-driven approach | Offers specific roles, ceremonies, and artifacts for clear guidelines |
| Suitable for organizations valuing flexibility and adaptability | Suitable for organizations valuing structure and predictability |
Both DA and SAFe work well in different ways. The right choice depends on a company’s needs and culture. It’s important to pick the approach that best fits the organization’s goals67.
Disciplined Agile vs. Scaled Agile Framework
Disciplined Agile (DA) and the Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) are two frameworks for achieving enterprise agility8. Teams rarely use both at the same time. Yet, they can learn from each other to improve continuously8.
DA focuses on practical, context-based scaling. It lets teams adjust their processes to fit their needs9. SAFe, on the other hand, offers a structured way to transform agile. It guides teams and sets a common pace for working together10.
SAFe has different setups for various sizes and complexities8. For example, Essential SAFe is for managing 5-12 agile teams. It includes a big planning event every quarter for everyone to get on the same page8.
DA, however, is more flexible. It lets teams decide their processes, making it easier to adapt to changes9. This is great for big organizations that might find SAFe too strict or expensive9.
Both frameworks provide detailed guidance, roles, and certifications for agile transformation8. But, starting out, the amount of information can feel overwhelming8.
Choosing between DA and SAFe depends on an organization’s needs and culture9. Knowing the strengths and weaknesses of each helps leaders make the best choice for their goals and agility10.
Scaling Agile: SAFe Configurations and Disciplined Agile Process Blades
Organizations are moving towards enterprise agility. The Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) and Disciplined Agile (DA) help with this. SAFe was created in 2012 by Dean Leffingwell. It has four configurations for different needs11. DA, made in 2011 by Scott Ambler and Mark Lines, is more flexible. It uses “process blades” for agile adoption11.
SAFe Configurations: Essential, Large Solution, and Portfolio
The Essential SAFe is for managing 5-12 agile teams. It helps them work together11. As teams grow, they can move to Large Solution and Portfolio. These levels help manage more teams and use Lean Portfolio Management11.
Disciplined Agile Process Blades and Value Streams
Disciplined Agile supports many agile methods, like Scrum and Kanban11. It uses “process blades” for common enterprise skills. This helps in adopting agile ways of working11. These blades support continuous delivery and delight customers, even in areas like Legal and Finance.
| Framework | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) |
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| Disciplined Agile (DA) |
|
“Scaling is necessary to respond to dynamic market conditions, achieve a minimum viable bureaucracy, align on priorities, manage cross-team dependencies, reduce duplication, maintain quality, speed to markets, maximize flow, increase performance, operate sustainably, and accelerate customer feedback loops.”12
Both SAFe and Disciplined Agile help scale agile practices in enterprises. SAFe is structured, while DA is flexible. Organizations should choose based on their needs and maturity.
Implementation and Adoption Approaches
Adopting agile frameworks like SAFe and DA needs a clear plan. SAFe sees agile transformation as a big change, not just new practices11. It uses a 12-step roadmap based on John Kotter’s 8-step model for leading change11.
The first step is training change agents and executives in lean-agile mindset and SAFe practices. Strong leadership support is key for success11.
DA, on the other hand, is more flexible and fits the context11. It offers a toolkit for teams to choose the best development lifecycle for their project11. DA’s motto is “Start where you are, do the best that you can, and always try to improve.”11 It’s designed for those overwhelmed by complex frameworks, offering a simpler path11.
SAFe’s Holistic Agile Transformation and Change Management
SAFe focuses on a complete approach to agile transformation and change13. It’s based on Lean/Agile principles like taking an economic view and assuming variability13. These principles guide SAFe’s structured 12-step roadmap for effective change11.
Disciplined Agile’s Pragmatic and Context-Driven Approach
DA is more flexible and context-driven in its approach11. It believes context matters and teams should make smart choices11. DA starts by picking the right development lifecycle for the project11.
Then, teams evaluate their environment and decide on processes using DA’s tools11. DA knows each organization faces unique challenges, so it offers a tailored solution11.
“Start where you are, do the best that you can given the situation you face, and always strive to get better.”
– Disciplined Agile (DA) mantra
| Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) | Disciplined Agile (DA) |
|---|---|
| Holistic Agile Transformation and Change Management1113 | Pragmatic and Context-Driven Approach11 |
| 12-step Implementation Roadmap11 | Toolkit of Process Goals, Decisions, and Options11 |
| Emphasizes Alignment, Transparency, Respect, and Relentless Improvement13 | Recognizes Unique Challenges and Constraints11 |
Agile Release Train and Program Increment in SAFe
The Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) focuses on the Agile Release Train (ART). It’s a team of 75-125 people working together on a 2-week cycle14. This team helps plan and deliver work across the enterprise15.
The ART starts a 10-week Program Increment (PI) with a 2-day planning event15. This event includes four 2-week development Iterations and 2 weeks for Innovation & Planning (IP)15. The IP Iteration is a buffer for teams to finish work, prepare for release, and plan for the next PI15.
| SAFe Framework Elements | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Agile Release Train (ART) | |
| Program Increment (PI) |
The PI Planning event is key for setting goals and managing work with other teams15. Scrum of Scrums and Product Owner syncs happen weekly or more. System Demos are biweekly for feedback and team integration15.
Inspect and Adapt marks the end of each PI, focusing on improvement for the next15.
Solution Trains in SAFe have extra events like Pre- and Post-PI Planning for coordination15. They also have a Solution Demo for showcasing progress15. Solution Train Inspect and Adapt events are held at the Large Solution Level, following a similar format to ART-level events15.
Certifications and Training
The Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) and Disciplined Agile (DA) offer various certifications. These usually need a 2-day class and passing an exam17. SAFe’s journey often begins with the Leading SAFe class, teaching foundational concepts17.
SAFe also has courses for specific roles like scrum masters and architects. There are advanced certifications for Program Consultants, Trainers, and Portfolio Managers17.
SAFe Certifications: Leading SAFe, Role-Based, and Advanced
The Leading SAFe class is a starting point for many. It assumes knowledge of Scrum and Kanban17. Advanced certifications, like for Program Consultants, require deeper knowledge17.
Disciplined Agile Certifications: DASM, DASSM, and Advanced
The Disciplined Agile Scrum Master (DASM) covers Scrum, Kanban, and DA tools17. The Senior Scrum Master (DASSM) needs 2 years of experience and DA knowledge17. DA also has Coach and Value Stream Consultant certifications for deeper learning18.
DA’s DASM doesn’t need prior agile experience17. Getting ready for DASSM is like preparing for the PMP exam18. DASSM is good for many professionals, including entrepreneurs and IT managers18.
| Certification | SAFe | Disciplined Agile |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level | Leading SAFe | DASM |
| Intermediate | Role-Based Certifications | DASSM |
| Advanced | Program Consultant, Trainer, Portfolio Manager | Coach, Value Stream Consultant |
| Prerequisites | Working knowledge of Scrum and Kanban | No prior agile experience required for DASM |
| Exam Format | 2-day class and exam | 2-day class and exam |
Both SAFe and DA certifications need a 2-day class and a tough exam17. Daily learning retention is about 15%, but can hit over 50% with review18. The DASSM exam is on the Pearson VUE platform18.
“Agile certifications show a practitioner’s dedication to learning and growth, key in the fast-changing world of enterprise agility.”
Choosing SAFe or Disciplined Agile certifications can boost your knowledge and career in agile frameworks and enterprise agility6.
Conclusion
Disciplined Agile (DA) and the Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) are two key agile methods. They help scale agile practices in big companies19. Both use Lean-Agile thinking, Scrum, Kanban, and DevOps, but they differ in structure and flexibility20.
Companies can pick the best framework for their needs. DA is more flexible and context-driven, while SAFe is more structured for agile change21. Both can help an enterprise become more agile and scalable21.
Choosing between DA and SAFe can help companies succeed in agile transformation21. This choice can lead to better customer satisfaction, faster product release, and lasting business growth21.
FAQ
What is the difference between Disciplined Agile (DA) and the Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe)?
Disciplined Agile (DA) is flexible and supports various lifecycles like Scrum and Kanban. The Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) is more detailed and focuses on scaling agile across the whole company.
What are the core principles and methodologies of Disciplined Agile and SAFe?
Both use lean-agile thinking and include Scrum, Kanban, and DevOps. They help teams solve complex problems and improve business agility.
How did Disciplined Agile and SAFe originate and develop?
Disciplined Agile started in 2011 by Scott Ambler and Mark Lines. SAFe was introduced by Dean Leffingwell in 2012. Both frameworks built on lean-agile thinking and Scrum, Kanban, and DevOps.
How do Disciplined Agile and SAFe approach scaling agile across the enterprise?
Disciplined Agile focuses on practical, context-based scaling. SAFe offers a structured way to scale agile practices. SAFe has different configurations, while Disciplined Agile uses “process blades” for agile adoption.
What are the key implementation and adoption approaches for Disciplined Agile and SAFe?
SAFe has a 12-step roadmap for implementation, based on Kotter’s change model. It stresses the need for strong leadership. Disciplined Agile is more flexible, encouraging improvement and starting with the current situation.
How do the certifications and training offerings differ between Disciplined Agile and SAFe?
Both offer certifications. SAFe has foundational, role-based, and advanced courses. Disciplined Agile provides entry-level, senior, and advanced certifications for Scrum, Kanban, and DA.
