In SAFe, what does the term "Lean-Agile Mindset" refer to?

The term "Lean-Agile Mindset" in SAFe refers to a combination of Lean thinking principles and Agile practices that guides teams and leaders. This mindset is foundational to how organizations operate within the SAFe framework, promoting a culture of continuous improvement, flexibility, and respect for people.

Lean thinking emphasizes eliminating waste, optimizing processes, and delivering value to the customer efficiently. When combined with Agile practices, which focus on iterative development, collaboration, and responsiveness to change, teams are empowered to innovate and adapt quickly to evolving requirements. This mindset encourages not only a focus on delivering high-quality products but also fosters an organization-wide commitment to learning, teamwork, and adaptability.

A strict adherence to Agile methodologies does not encompass the full breadth of the Lean-Agile Mindset, as it focuses on flexibility and continuous improvement rather than rigid processes. Keeping long project timelines for optimal results contradicts the Agile principle of delivering working software frequently, promoting shorter cycles for delivery instead. Prioritizing speed over quality also undermines both Lean and Agile values, which stress the importance of delivering valuable and high-quality outcomes rather than merely focusing on fast delivery.