Make Value Flow without Interruptions
SAFe, a framework designed on Lean Thinking, focuses on Flow in its very design, and so, in keeping with its principle number 6; Make Value Flow without Interruptions, SAFe designed a process to ensure that this does indeed happen in enterprises using SAFe. Again, unlike other Agile methodologies that merely recommend ensuring early and continuous delivery of value, SAFe does not stop at this principle but it goes a step further, in practice, to provide a blueprint for achieving this.
SAFe recognizes that enterprises must respond quickly to market changes to remain competitive in the digital age. Consequently, delivering a continuous flow of value to customers in the ‘shortest sustainable lead time’ is the central theme of SAFe. Achieving this requires moving new system features through the development value stream as quickly as possible. Getting to a state of continuous flow requires a new way of working that eliminates the traditional start-stop-start project cycle and the Waterfall phase gates that hinder flow. The principles and practices that enable the uninterrupted flow of value in SAFe are integral to the Lean-Agile Mindset, Value Stream Management, and Lean Thinking, which can be summarized as:
- Precisely specify value by product
- Identify the value stream for each product
- Make value flow without interruptions
- Let the customer pull value from the producer
Pursue perfection
Here are a few key elements in the principle of Making Value Flow without Interruptions:
- Make Value Flow: This part of the principle highlights the central goal of any Agile framework, which is to create and deliver value to the customer. In the context of SAFe, it’s not just about completing individual tasks or projects but ensuring that value flows continuously through the entire development and delivery process.
- Without Interruptions: The principle encourages organizations to minimize interruptions and delays in the flow of value. Interruptions can come in various forms, such as waiting for approvals, dependencies on other teams, or bottlenecks in the development process. The idea is to identify and eliminate these interruptions to maintain a smooth, continuous flow of value.
In practical terms, making value flow without interruptions involves:
- Reducing Batch Sizes: Breaking down work into smaller, more manageable pieces allows for faster and more frequent delivery, reducing the risk of interruptions.
- Eliminating Delays: Identifying and addressing delays in the development pipeline, whether they are caused by manual processes, waiting for approvals, or other bottlenecks.
- Minimizing Handoffs: Streamlining the process by reducing the number of handoffs between teams or individuals can help prevent interruptions and maintain a more efficient flow.
- Improving Communication and Collaboration: Ensuring that teams are well-connected and communicate effectively helps in addressing issues promptly and avoiding delays.
- Implementing Lean and Agile Practices: Adopting Lean and Agile principles, such as Kanban, which emphasizes visualizing work and managing flow, will contribute to making value flow without interruptions.
In summary, the principle “Make Value Flow without Interruptions” in SAFe underscores the importance of optimizing the delivery process to ensure a continuous, uninterrupted flow of value to the end customer. This aligns with Agile and Lean thinking, focusing on efficiency, responsiveness, and delivering value quickly and consistently.
Feedback and questions are welcome.
For more information, visit https://scaledagileframework.com/make-value-flow-without-interruptions/