Why the Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) Is the Most Adaptable and Widely Used Agile Framework
February 16, 2025
The Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) has become the preferred approach for organisations seeking to increase agility across complex systems. Its structured yet flexible approach allows businesses to align multiple teams, streamline workflows, and drive measurable results. But what sets SAFe apart from other agile frameworks? Let’s explore the key reasons behind its widespread adoption and success.
1. Built for Scalability and Flexibility
Unlike team-level frameworks like Scrum or Kanban, SAFe is specifically designed to scale agility across entire organisations. It provides a structured approach to managing agility at program, portfolio, and enterprise levels, making it an ideal choice for large-scale transformations. Key features include:
• Planning Interval (PI) Planning – Ensures alignment across multiple teams with a shared vision for each planning interval.
• Lean Portfolio Management – Connects business strategy with execution, ensuring strategic objectives are met.
• DevOps and Continuous Delivery Pipeline – Enhances workflow efficiency, enabling faster, high-quality releases.
These capabilities make SAFe adaptable across industries—from software development to healthcare, finance, and manufacturing.
2. Widespread Industry Adoption and Proven Success
SAFe’s dominance in the agile space is backed by data. According to the 2023 State of Agile Report, SAFe is the most widely used scaling framework, with 53% of organisations with more than 50 teams choosing it over alternatives like Scrum@Scale or Large-Scale Scrum (LeSS).
Major corporations such as Cisco, American Express, and Lockheed Martin have adopted SAFe to manage large-scale operations and improve delivery efficiency. Its structured yet adaptable framework helps these companies coordinate complex systems and accelerate time-to-market.
3. Customisable to Fit Different Organisational Needs
A key reason for SAFe’s success is its flexibility. While it provides a structured framework, it can be tailored to suit an organization’s unique needs. Businesses can choose from different SAFe configurations, including:
• Essential SAFe – The core framework for organisations starting their agile journey.
• Portfolio SAFe – Designed for enterprises managing multiple value streams.
• Large Solution SAFe – Ideal for highly complex systems requiring cross-team coordination.
Additionally, SAFe emphasises continuous improvement, allowing organisations to refine their approach as market demands and technologies evolve.
4. Measurable Business Benefits
Organisations adopting SAFe often see significant improvements in key performance metrics. Case studies highlight impressive gains, including:
• 30-75% Faster Time-to-Market – Streamlined workflows and better alignment speed up product releases.
• 20-50% Increase in Productivity – Improved collaboration and structured planning drive efficiency.
• 25-75% Improvement in Product Quality – Continuous feedback loops enhance product reliability and customer satisfaction.
These data-driven benefits make SAFe a compelling choice for enterprises seeking a strong return on investment (ROI) from their agile transformation.
5. Strong Ecosystem and Training Support
A robust support system reinforces SAFe’s success. With over 1.5 million certified practitioners worldwide and certifications like SAFe Agilist (SA) and SAFe Practice Consultant (SPC), organisations can easily access skilled professionals to lead their agile initiatives.
Comprehensive training, tools, and resources help businesses adopt SAFe more effectively, reducing implementation challenges and fostering long-term agility.
The Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) is the most adaptable and widely used agile framework due to its scalability, flexibility, and measurable impact. Its proven success across industries, customisable structure, and strong support ecosystem make it the top choice for organisations pursuing enterprise agility.
SAFe offers a clear, structured, and results-driven path forward for companies looking to achieve sustainable agile transformations.