Best SAFe Books for Beginners and Advanced Learners

Scaled Agile Framework, often abbreviated as SAFe, is a collection of core values that delineate an organization's culture and the ones that the leadership is expected to foster.  It throws light on the mandatory code of conduct that employees within a large-scale organization should follow.

For the effective use of this framework, employees and leadership should limit their behavior within said culture imposed upon them. To have a detailed understanding of SAFe before implementing it in a growing business, there are several SAFe Agile books you can refer to. These Scaled Agile Framework books can also come in handy for aspirants looking to become certified SAFe Agilist.

What is SAFe?

The Scaled Agile Framework® (SAFe®) is a compilation of workflow and organizational patterns used for the incorporation of agile practices in a large-scale enterprise. This framework works like a hub of information that offers orderly guidance based on roles, responsibilities, time management, and core values that an employee is expected to uphold. With a successfully implemented Scaled Agile Framework, operational work efficiency is bound to increase because it not only promotes alignment and collaboration but also large-scale delivery across agile teams.  To progress your career in Agile, enroll in KnowledgeHut Agile courses. SAFe is built around three main bodies of knowledge, namely:  

• Agile software development 
• Lean product development 
• Systems thinking

SAFe offers a structured approach to scaling agile for growing businesses. The four configurations that promote numerous levels of scale in SAFe are:

• Essential SAFe 
• Large Solution SAFe 
• Portfolio SAFe 
• Full SAFe

Top 4 SAFe Books for Beginners

A well-regarded SAFe framework book is bound to offer you an in-depth understanding of the Scaled Agile Framework®, how it works, the values it promulgates within an organization, and how to use it effectively. If you are looking for a reliable Scaled Agile Framework book for beginners, here is a SAFe Agile book list for beginners that we have consolidated for you to help you learn the right way to implement SAFe® in an organization. 

SAFe® 5.0 Distilled

Achieving Business Agility with the Scaled Agile Framework  

Author Name

Richard Knaster and Dean Leffingwell

Source

Year of Release and Version  

The SAFe 5.0 book release was on the 5th June 2020. 

Goodreads Rating  

This book has a 3.6 out of 5 rating on Goodreads.  

Publisher Info 

Addison-Wesley is based in America and specializes in publishing textbooks based on computer literature. As an imprint of the renowned global publishing company Pearson PLC, Addison-Wesley has gained fame in distributing tech titles via the e-reference service called O'Reilly Online Learning. 

Book Info 

The detailed information of this book has been listed below:- 

• Copyright 2021 
• Pages: 320 
• Genre: Non-fiction 
• Price: $31.99 (eBook) 
• Language: ‎ English 

Overview of What is Covered in the Book 

If you are looking for the best book on Scaled Agile Framework is the choice you need to go for. With this book, you will learn how to make your business “SAFe®.” It was co-written by the creator of this framework and having it in your possession can come in handy especially if you plan to implement it in your organization. As a holistic resource of knowledge about this framework, ‘SAFe® 5.0 Distilled’ is a must-read. You will learn key values and noteworthy application tips. The framework goes through periodic updates every few years. The 5th edition of this book has the newest additions related to competencies, principles and themes. 

Key Benefits and Takeaways 

The 320-page publication will answer the following most commonly SAFe questions in detail:

• What is SAFe? 
• What are the advantages of SAFe? 
• What are the core principles of the SAFe framework? 
• How to implement SAFe in an organization? 
• What is a Lean-Agile Mindset? 
• What are the main competencies of the Lean Enterprise? 

Some of the Key Takeaways 

• Understand the SAFe business case, its advantages, and what problems it addresses 
• Learn about the competencies related to the organization, leadership and the technical aspects that are required for business optimization 
• Learn about customer centricity with an approach to design thinking  
• Learn to align strategy and execution better with the help of Lean Portfolio Management  
• Develop leadership skills required in this digital age  
• Improve consistency when it comes to delivering value to customers with the help of value stream networks

The ART of Avoiding a Train Wreck

Practical Tips and Tricks for Launching and Operating SAFe® Agile Release Trains  

Author Name

Em Campbell-Pretty and Adrienne L.Wilson

Source

Year of release and Version

This book was first published on the 2nd October 2019. 

Goodreads Rating

This book has a 4.33 out of 5 rating on Goodreads. 

Publisher Info

This book was published under an inspirational book writers’ retreat program called SpiritCast Network, an initiative first launched by David Thompson, an author, and producer. It is known to have published 17 books to date, with 5 active authors launching their books with their game-changing launch sequence.  

Book Info

Detailed information about this book is listed below:

• Pages: 394  
• Genre: Non-fiction 
• Price: $34.99 (Paperback) 
• Language: English

Overview of What is Covered in the Book 

One can face multiple challenges while aligning an Agile Release Train with multiple teams. To understand this concept better, this book is considered one of the best SAFe Agile books. It is a reliable source of knowledge for those looking to implement this framework in their operating system. Written by two of the most famous practitioners of SAFe, the credibility of this book is unparalleled. With this book, you will learn in detail about how to implement Agile Release Train in reality.  

Key Benefits and Takeaways 

This book is one of the most reliable sources of knowledge and acts as an instruction manual for implementing Agile Release Train. With helpful tips, numerous anecdotes, and entertaining language, you will easily be able to learn the following information:- 

• How to acquire a ticket on the SAFe railway 
• How to load cargo onto your train 
• How to set the timetable 
• How to SAFely board the train 
• How to make sure the train stays on track.  

Accelerate

Building Strategic Agility for a Faster-Moving World 

Author Name  

John P.Kotter

Source

Year of Release and Version  

The first edition of this book was released on the 25th February 2014.  

Goodreads Rating 

This book has a 3.59 out of 5 rating on Goodreads. 

Publisher Info 

This book was published by the renowned Harvard Business Review Press a top-notch media company educated to offer high-grade publishing services tailor-made for every writer. They specialize in publishing books, magazines, digital articles, podcasts, audiobooks, videos, eBooks, events and even tools. 

Book Info  

Detailed information about this book is listed below:

• Pages: 220 
• Genre: Non-fiction 
• Price: $24.99 (Hardcover) 
• Language: English

Overview Of What is Covered in the Book 

Large-scale businesses are more likely to face several challenges when managing projects in an Agile way. However, to make things easier for you, John Kotter’s book, Accelerate elucidates an organizational structure that streamlines Agile in scale rather than making the process more challenging. It is termed a Dual Operating System by the author which paves the path for restructuring a company to facilitate growth.

Key Benefits and Takeaways 

This is undoubtedly one of the best SAFe scaled Agile books that are a must-read for Agile aspirants. You will learn about:- 

• How traditional hierarchies in businesses limit growth and how to prevent this. 
• Various areas you can consider for improvement 
• Five principles  
• Eight accelerators. 

With handy tips from Kotter, you will learn about implementing large-scale structural changes via Q&A. 

Agile Software Requirements

Lean Requirements Practices for Teams, Programs, and the Enterprise 

Author Name

Dean Leffingwell

Source

Year of Release and Version

This book was first published on the 1st December 201. 

Good Reads Rating

This book has a rating of 3.86 out of 5 on Goodreads. 

Publisher Info

This book was published by Addison-Wesley Professional, a well-known American publishing brand that has released numerous tech books related to computers and software.

Book Info

Detailed information about this book is listed below:

• Pages: 518 
• Genre: Non-fiction 
• Price: $54.92 (Hardcover) 
• Language: English 

Overview of What is Covered in the Book 

Coming up with new-age software requirements optimized to provide maximum efficiency can be challenging in the repetitious Agile framework, especially for large-scale operations.  Dean Leffingwell’s book helps overcome these challenges with handy ideas, extensive knowledge and actionable advice. 

Therefore, it has been regarded as one of the choicest SAFe® books directed toward businesses that deal with software development. It is ideal for developers and executives who need proper guidance in developing robust Agile Software Requirements in an enterprise. 

Key Benefits and Takeaways

Agile Software Requirements is divided into four parts that offer a step-by-step detailed guide about this field:

• Part I elucidates the holistic process model for Agile requirements at several levels such as project teams, portfolios and programs in a large organization.  
• Part II elucidates in detail the model useful for Agile project teams to manage requirements 
• Part III delves into details about how to develop Agile requirements for complicated systems handled by more than one team. 
• Part IV offers guidance in the development of Agile requirements for large-scale application suites, “systems of systems,” and product portfolios

Advanced SAFe Books

The best books on SAFe Agile are ideal for not only owners of growing businesses looking to implement an agile framework to manage a bevy of projects, but also for aspirants who want to become certified agilists. If you are looking for a good Scaled Agile Framework book for advanced, here is a list of SAFe Agile books we have consolidated for you. 

Lean Product and Process Development

Author Name

Allen C.Ward and Durward K.Sobek II

Source

Year of Release and Version  

The first edition of this book was published on the 31st December 1899. The latest edition was published on the 11th July 2007. 

Good Reads Rating 

This book has a rating of 4.30 out of 5 on Goodreads.  

Publisher Info 

This book was published by the Lean Enterprise Institute, Inc. which is a non-profit institution dedicated to adopting lean thinking and lean practice that is rooted in a purpose, the process, and the people involved.  

Book Info 

Detailed information about this book is listed below:

• Pages: 349 
• Genre: Non-fiction 
• Price: $70.00 (Hardcover) 
• Language: English 

Overview Of What is Covered in the Book 

The fundamental understanding of the application and importance of lean in enterprises has delved further because of the demand for operational efficiency in organizations when it comes to performing core tasks. Product development happens to be one of the most crucial tasks. To help streamline this sector, this book was published by The Lean Enterprise Institute. Authored by one of the pioneers of lean product development, Allen Ward, this book provides a detailed and holistic view of lean development and its principles. 

Key Benefits and Takeaways 

This book is aimed at those looking to venture into product development. It acts as a detailed guide and the key takeaways from this book have been listed below:

• A clear understanding of essential issues like the purpose and the value added in product development. 
• Identifying “knowledge waste” that thwarts development. 
• Identifying the four main cornerstones of product development and how they differ from traditional practices. 
• Learning how to establish your own lean development process via practical recommendations offered.  

Unleash your potential with project management online classes and certification. Empower your career and attain success with validated expertise and understanding in project management.

Unlocking Lean Six Sigma

A Competency-Based Approach to Applying Continuous Process Improvement Principles and Best Practices 

Author Name 

Dr. Wesley E. Donahue

Source

Year of Release and Version  

This book was first released on the 18th January 2021 

Good Reads Rating 

This book has a 4.09 out of 5 rating on Goodreads.  

Publisher Info 

This book has been independently published by the author Dr. Wesley E. Donahue. 

Book Info  

Detailed information about this book is listed below:

• Pages: 221 
• Genre: Non-fiction 
• Price: $34.95 (Hardcover) 
• Language: English 

Overview Of What is Covered in the Book 

Lean Six Sigma is a book that acts as a guide for project management teams when they identify problems and think of ways to incorporate operational improvements with Lean Six Sigma. Irrespective of any background or industry, one can easily make use of these principles and tools. You will learn in detail how you can use the Lean Six Sigma methodology for waste reduction, consistency in improvement, and quality control. 

Key Benefits and Takeaways 

This book is a reader-friendly competency-based guide that can be used for personal learning and if you are part of a project team. The key concepts are described in detail and will help you develop a comprehensive understanding of the Six Sigma method because of the following benefits of having the books:

• Worksheets for self-development 
• Illustrations elucidating how you can approach with the help of tools. 
• Charts and other visuals for maximum retention. 
• Links to professional resources like videos and websites 
• Case scenarios for process improvement highlighting how to use ideas and their real-time use cases 
• To-do tips for further understanding 
• Practice questions

SAFe PI Planning: A Step-By-Step Guide

Author Name

Liam Kane

Source

Year of Release and Version  

This book was first released on 12th July 2018. 

Good Reads Rating  

This book has a 3.80 out of 5 rating on Goodreads.  

Publisher Info 

This book was published independently by Agile One Media LLC. This renowned workforce solutions provider aims to offer creative services that streamline and automate operations, optimize communications, and the like.  

Book Info  

Detailed information about this book is listed below:

• Pages: 136 
• Genre: Non-fiction 
• Price: $29.99 (Paperback) 
• Language: English 

Overview of What is Covered in the Book 

This book is a detailed step-by-step instruction manual dedicated to PI Planning which is an integral element of the SAFe framework. With this book, you will get an in-depth and comprehensive understanding of PI Planning as well as the essentials of PI Planning.  

Key Benefits and Takeaways 

The key benefits of reading this book have been listed below: 

• You will have a detailed understanding of how to set any event up for success by making sure that the prerequisites have been met.  
• You will be able to ensure that both business stakeholders and delivery teams are on the same page when it comes to the feature deliverables and the objectives at the end of the event.  
• You will learn in detail about the critical Agile Program Practices that help keep the program on track during the PI execution.  
• You will learn how to measure success.

Preparation Tips for SAFe

As a Certified SAFe Agilist, you are expected to possess the prerequisite skills, experience and in-depth knowledge to execute tasks in a SAFe working environment with the highest operational efficiency. This additionally means that by passing the Product Manager/Product Owner exam, you are eligible to be assigned the role of a SAFe Product Owner. You cannot become a SAFe Agilist just by sitting for the classes and being willing and engaging in the course. In actuality, you need to pass the Scaled Agile exam successfully. Some tips to succeed in this endeavor have been listed below: 

• Study the SAFe materials properly. 
• Pinpoint your weaknesses and work towards improving them. 
• Engage with SAFe content with a creative approach by conducting case studies, attending classes with engaging peers 
• Taking a SAFe approach when it comes to your own work. 
• Take the exam until you pass it with success.

Unleash your potential with project management online classes and certification. Empower your career and attain success with validated expertise and understanding in project management.

More Ways to Learn SAFe

Aside from the list of the Scaled Agile Framework best books, another foolproof way of learning about SAFe and how to implement it in an organizational structure is by taking up a reliable Agile course. There are several Agile courses to choose from that aim to offer you the best Agile certifications.

With these courses, you will be able to master Agile Methodology and move towards innovation and progress via experiential learning (case studies and simulations), and customizable immersive courses on this methodology that are curated by industry experts and leaders. You will additionally acquire a Scaled Agile certification from the premier accreditation bodies so you can showcase your Agile expertise.

Conclusion

With the growth of a business, the workforce is also expected to grow in numbers. This calls for SAFe implementation into the organizational structure to enhance operational efficiency. The aforementioned list of the best SAFe books to read will not only introduce you to the world of Scaled Agile Framework but also help you understand how it works.

In conclusion, we can say that the best way to implement a SAFe framework within a large organization is by having in-depth knowledge about the values that it stands for. You can become a certified SAFe Agilist by taking up a reliable training course like the KnowledgeHut certified SAFe Agilist course.