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Lean-Agile Mindset, SAFe Core Values, SAFe Principles

Lean Agile mindset, core values, safe principles

The Lean-Agile mindset, the SAFe core values, and the 10 SAFe principles form the foundation of the Scaled Agile Framework. Too often, leaders and practitioners in organizations go through the motions of mimicking SAFe practices and using SAFe terms without internalizing and embracing the underlying values and principles that truly represent a new way of working. This ‘SAFe in name only’ approach may produce some small successes in the short term. However, in the long term, such a shallow adoption will inevitably fail to produce the real, long-lasting business results leaders hoped for when they decided to ‘go SAFe.’


Lean-Agile Mindset

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The Lean-Agile Mindset combines beliefs, attitudes, and actions based on Lean Thinking and the Agile Manifesto. Leaders and practitioners adopt SAFe principles and practices to shape a culture that promotes Business Agility. This mindset, emphasizing continuous improvement and flexibility, is essential for driving successful organizational transformations. It involves being aware of and open to changing one’s mindset, which is how we perceive and interpret the world, influenced by our experiences and learning. Changing mindsets is an ongoing topic in transitioning to SAFe; learn more about it in this foundational article.


SAFe Core Values

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SAFe, a powerful system for achieving business agility, is built on four core values: alignment, transparency, respect for people, and relentless improvement. These values guide the behavior of everyone in a SAFe portfolio, ensuring success through unity and continuous growth. These values are uniquely applicable when applying Lean and Agile at scale. Dive deeper into how these core values shape business agility and drive success in SAFe.


SAFe Principles

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SAFe is based on ten immutable, underlying Lean-Agile principles. These principles are informed by a rich body of knowledge, including Agile, systems thinking, product development, and Lean. There is no off-the-shelf solution for the unique challenges each organization faces. Not every SAFe practice will apply equally in every circumstance. This is why we work hard to ensure that SAFe practices are grounded in fundamentally stable principles. Learn how the principles guide teams towards achieving the lean goal of “shortest sustainable lead time with best quality and value.”

Last update: 15 October 2024