In a previous column, I discussed how to write SMART Goals.  The following column dives in a bit deeper as to how we can use the SMART Goal format when writing PI Objectives and Iteration Goals. Every Program Increment (specifically at PI Planning), we craft and discuss our PI Objectives.  What about Iteration Goals?  Let’s dive into each a bit more. What is a SAFe PI Objective? It’s a summary of the business and technical goals, written in a common language for business and

Have you ever heard of Shu Ha Ri before?  No?  Well, you will now, grasshopper! Shu Ha Ri is a Japanese martial arts concept.  Remember Mr. Miyagi from the classic 1984 movie Karate Kid?  “Wax on, wax off.  Wax on, wax off.”  Shu Ha Ri describes the stages of learning to mastery.  Learning is not a linear progression!  It’s a never-ending process of continual growth and improvement.  You can easily apply these concepts in Agile. Shu Shu literally means to “obey”.  This is the

What is a SMART Goal ?  It can apply to any goal you set, not just Agile-related ones.  We write our PI Objectives in SMART goal format, but it can also be used to write better sprint goals.  A SMART Goal is scientifically proven to help teams set and achieve goals.  They excel at providing the framework to create a compelling PI Objective or Sprint Goal.  You can even use them for retrospective goals!   Let’s dive in… They give you direction.  A well-planned goal helps you m

What on earth does a Release Train Engineer (RTE) do? The Scaled Agile Framework definition states that “The Release Train Engineer (RTE) is a servant leader and coach for the Agile Release Train (ART).” That’s a mouthful! Well, there’s a lot that goes on “behind the scenes” to keep an Agile Release Train on the tracks. It’s more than just organizing PI Planning! Is it a Release Manager? No, but here’s a highlight of just a few areas that an RTE can help! ● Protec

Feedback is critical to the success of the Agile Release Train (ART). How do we know if the solution we are building is what our customers desire? Stakeholders, aka Business Owners in the world of SAFe, play a crucial role in keeping the Agile Release Train on track. This is definitely a partnership! How can you help as a partner of your Agile Release Train? Attend the PI Planning Event for the full two days (in person if possible!). Regularly attend the system demo (or sen