Greetings, Agile enthusiasts and future SAFe practitioners! Today, we’re diving deep into one of the nuances of the SAFe framework, specifically around the IP (Innovation and Planning) iteration. This topic often brings up a lot of questions during our trainings, so we thought it’d be valuable to elucidate it here.
Firstly, let’s set the stage by understanding the importance of the IP iteration. The IP iteration is a specialized iteration that allows teams to step back from the hustle and bustle of regular delivery to innovate, plan, and continuously improve. It’s also a buffer that aids in ensuring the predictability of ART (Agile Release Train) deliveries.
Given its significance, it’s crucial that we handle the IP iteration correctly. But, like all things Agile, there are anti-patterns—those patterns of behavior that seem right but can mislead us if we’re not careful.
Let’s consider a few scenarios:
Option A:
Plan work for the IP iteration during PI planning It sounds logical, doesn’t it? Planning is a phase where we decide what we’re going to do, so why not plan for the IP iteration? The subtle catch here is that the IP iteration is reserved for unpredicted work, innovation, and improvement. Planning specific work items for it goes against its very essence. If we begin to plan regular work for the IP iteration, we erode its buffer capability, diminishing our ability to accommodate unforeseen challenges, innovations, or learning opportunities.
Option B:
Allow for sufficient capacity in the program roadmap This is actually a good practice. By ensuring that there’s capacity in the roadmap, we make space for innovation, learning, and adjustments based on feedback. This capacity ensures we’re building the right things at the right time.
Option C:
Ensure all stories and teams’ PI plans are completed prior to the IP iteration Again, a best practice. This ensures that the IP iteration remains free for its intended purposes and is not used as a spillover for incomplete work.
Option D:
Minimize lost capacity when people are on vacation or holidays While it’s always good to be mindful of team capacity, the IP iteration shouldn’t be viewed merely as a ‘backup’ for when team members are unavailable. It serves a much higher purpose in the SAFe framework. From our discussion, it’s evident that the anti-pattern in question is Option A.
Planning work for the IP iteration during PI planning is a misstep that goes against the grain of SAFe principles.
Metaphorically Speaking Imagine you’re on a cross-country train journey (our Agile Release Train). The IP iteration is like a brief stopover in a serene town, giving passengers a break to stretch, explore, and relax. If, however, during the journey we keep offloading cargo (work) at this stop, it no longer remains a relaxing break. Instead, it becomes just another busy station, robbing passengers of their much-needed respite.
In conclusion, as you embark on your SAFe journey, remember the sanctity of the IP iteration. It’s a powerful tool in the SAFe framework when used correctly. Guard it, use it wisely, and let innovation flourish.
Join us for more insights into the world of SAFe. And, as always, stay Agile! Key Takeaway In your SAFe journey, remember that the IP iteration is a buffer, not a backlog for defects. Strive for continuous quality and keep your ship (ART) sailing smoothly.