Agile Mastery in SAFe: Embracing the Eastern Wisdom of Shu, Ha, Ri
Introduction to Shu, Ha, Ri in SAFe
Have you ever wondered how martial arts philosophies could possibly relate to Agile practices, particularly in the realm of SAFe (Scaled Agile Framework)? Well, buckle up, as we embark on a fascinating journey through the stages of Shu, Ha, Ri – a concept deeply rooted in martial arts that offers a compelling framework for mastering Agile within the context of SAFe. But what exactly are these stages, and how do they apply to Agile?
Shu: Following the Rules
In the Shu stage, it’s all about learning the basics and sticking to them. Here, SAFe practitioners are akin to novices learning karate techniques. They adhere to SAFe principles and practices as they are, without deviating. This stage is crucial, as it lays the foundation.
- Understand and follow SAFe principles strictly.
- Apply SAFe practices without alterations.
- It is not possible to truly appreciate the benefits or shortcomings of a particular approach without first experiencing it
Ha: Question the Rules
Now, don’t get us wrong, questioning the rules doesn’t mean going rogue. In the Ha stage, you’re encouraged to question and adapt SAFe principles based on your experience. It’s like being a karate student who starts to experiment with different moves, and finding what works for her.
- Question the ‘why’ behind SAFe practices.
- Adapt and tailor SAFe practices to fit the specific needs of an initiative, while staying true to the SAFe principles
Ri: Transcending the Rules
In Ri, the final stage, you transcend the rules. It’s where you become a SAFe sensei, creating new practices that align with SAFe’s core principles but are unique to your context. Think of it as a martial arts master who evolves the art form.
- Innovate within the framework of SAFe principles.
- Lead and mentor others in applying SAFe creatively.
Applying Shu, Ha, Ri to SAFe Implementation
Starting with Shu: Building a Solid Foundation
The journey begins with Shu, where the focus is on gaining a solid grasp of SAFe’s principles and practices. In this phase, organizations should:
- Engage in comprehensive SAFe training for all team members, ensuring everyone has a baseline understanding of the framework.
- Implement SAFe by the book, using it as a strict guide for all Agile processes and ceremonies. If an organization has adopted a particular approach to these implementations, then of course that should be followed as defined.
This foundational period is crucial for setting the stage for future adaptation and innovation.
Transitioning to Ha: Tailoring SAFe to Your Needs
As familiarity with SAFe grows, it’s time to enter the Ha phase, where the real art of adaptation begins. This involves:
- Assessing which practices work best for your organization and which could be adjusted.
- Experimenting with tailored approaches, always in line with Agile principles, to find more efficient and effective ways of working.
This phase encourages a culture of experimentation and learning, crucial for Agile transformation.
Evolving into Ri: Achieving Mastery and Beyond
Reaching the Ri stage signifies a profound mastery of SAFe, characterized by:
- A deep, intuitive understanding of how Agile can drive organizational success, beyond the confines of any single framework.
- Guiding others through the Agile journey, sharing insights and learnings to uplift the entire organization.
FAQs on Applying Shu, Ha, Ri in SAFe
Q: Can I skip the Shu stage and jump straight into Ha or Ri?
A: It’s tempting, but mastering the basics in Shu is crucial for a solid understanding of SAFe. Skipping it might lead to misunderstandings and ineffective practices.
Q: How long does each stage take?
A: There’s no set timeframe! It varies based on individual and organizational learning curves. The key is to be patient and thorough at each stage.
Wrapping Up: The Path to SAFe Mastery through Shu, Ha, Ri
As we conclude our exploration of applying Shu, Ha, Ri to SAFe, remember that this journey is more of a marathon than a sprint. Each stage builds upon the last, leading to a profound understanding and effective application of SAFe. Stay curious, be patient, and keep evolving – that’s the spirit of Shu, Ha, Ri!
