As organizations continue to evolve and adopt agile practices, it’s important to understand the different frameworks and approaches available. In this post, we will compare and contrast three popular frameworks: the Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe), Scrum of Scrums, and the Spotify Model.

SAFe is a proven framework for implementing agile practices at scale. It provides a clear, scalable path for organizations to follow, allowing teams to work together more effectively and deliver better outcomes. SAFe is based on the principles of the agile manifesto and the Scrum framework, but it also includes additional elements such as portfolio and program levels to support large-scale implementation.

Scrum of Scrums is a framework that allows teams to scale their agile practices by coordinating multiple Scrum teams. It involves creating a „meta-team“ made up of representatives from each Scrum team, who meet regularly to share information and coordinate their work. Scrum of Scrums is focused on improving communication and collaboration across teams, and it can be a useful approach for organizations with a large number of Scrum teams.

The Spotify Model is a unique approach to agile development that was developed by the music streaming service Spotify. It is based on the idea of small, cross-functional teams working together to deliver value quickly and efficiently. The Spotify Model emphasizes autonomy, experimentation, and continuous improvement, and it encourages teams to learn from each other and share their knowledge.

Comparative Scenarios

Understanding the best agile framework for your organization depends on specific scenarios.

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Large Enterprise with Multiple Departments

👍🏼SAFe: Provides comprehensive structure, alignment, and scalability across large organizations.

👎🏼Scrum of Scrums: May lack comprehensive structure.

👎🏼Spotify Model: Might struggle with maintaining consistency and alignment across many teams.

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Mid-sized Company with Several Scrum Teams

👍🏼Scrum of Scrums:Enhances coordination and communication across existing Scrum teams with a simple structure.

👎🏼SAFe: Could be overly complex.

👎🏼Spotify Model: May lack the necessary structure and discipline for coordination.

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Innovative Startup

👍🏼 Spotify Model: Emphasizes speed, autonomy, and continuous improvement, fostering a culture of innovation.

👎🏼SAFe: Could be too rigid and bureaucratic.

👎🏼Scrum of Scrums: Might not provide the needed flexibility and speed.

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Traditional Company Transitioning to Agile

👍🏼SAFe: Offers detailed guidance and a structured approach to large-scale agile transformation.

👎🏼Spotify Model: Might be too radical.

👎🏼Scrum of Scrums: May lack the necessary structure for a comprehensive transformation.

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Small Tech Company Focused on Rapid Delivery

👍🏼Spotify Model: Encourages rapid delivery, autonomy, and experimentation, suitable for small, dynamic teams.

👎🏼SAFe: Could be overly complex and slow.

👎🏼Scrum of Scrums: Might not offer the required flexibility and innovation.

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Organization with Strong Culture of Collaboration

👍🏼Spotify Model: Leverages strong collaborative culture to maximize autonomy and continuous improvement.

👎🏼SAFe: Could be too hierarchical.

👎🏼Scrum of Scrums: May not fully capitalize on the collaborative culture.

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Company Needing Strict Regulatory Compliance

👍🏼SAFe: Provides structured processes and documentation essential for regulatory compliance.

👎🏼Spotify Model: May lack necessary control.

👎🏼Scrum of Scrums: Might not ensure consistent adherence to regulations.

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Distributed Teams Across Multiple Locations

👍🏼SAFe: Ensures alignment, communication, and consistency across dispersed teams.

👎🏼Spotify Model: Might struggle with coordination.

👎🏼Scrum of Scrums: May face challenges in maintaining alignment.

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9. R&D Department within a Larger Enterprise

👍🏼Spotify Model: Supports innovation, autonomy, and rapid iteration ideal for research and development.

👎🏼SAFe: Could be too structured.

👎🏼Scrum of Scrums: Might not provide enough flexibility for experimental work.

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Summary, each of these frameworks offers its own unique approach to agile development, and they can all be useful in different situations. SAFe is a comprehensive framework for implementing agile at scale, Scrum of Scrums is a way to coordinate multiple Scrum teams, and the Spotify Model emphasizes experimentation and continuous improvement. It’s important to choose the right framework for your organization based on your specific needs and goals.