Episode 7 : Unraveling User Stories, Features, and Epics in SAFe
333 views
0

 Published On Mar 13, 2024

Images used are Owner by Scaled Agile
© Scaled Agile, Inc.

The video presents an in-depth exploration of user stories, features, and epics within the frameworks of generic Agile and Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe), highlighting the nuanced differences in their applications. It begins by clarifying the concept of a user story, which is a fundamental component common to both frameworks, representing a manageable segment of a requirement that an Agile team can address within a single iteration. Emphasis is placed on the user story's role, format, and lifecycle, including creation, refinement, and prioritization, primarily led by the Product Owner.

The discussion then shifts to the notion of features in SAFe, which introduces a two-tiered product backlog system distinct from the singular product backlog found in Scrum. Features in SAFe are described as larger units of work that may span multiple sprints and require the collaboration of several Agile teams for completion. These are meticulously refined, encompassing benefit hypotheses and acceptance criteria, and serve as a bridge between high-level business requirements and the granular tasks undertaken by Agile teams.

The video further distinguishes between SAFe's interpretation of epics and the broader Agile context, where epics are large, less-defined work containers that undergo thorough review and justification at the portfolio level in SAFe, underscoring the strategic decision-making process involved in undertaking significant business initiatives.

Additionally, the concept of enablers is introduced, which refers to technical or foundational work necessary to support the achievement of business goals, existing across various levels of the SAFe hierarchy from epic to user story.

This comprehensive guide aims to equip viewers with a clearer understanding of the structural and operational differences in handling user stories, features, and epics within SAFe compared to generic Agile methodologies, emphasizing the importance of refinement, prioritization, and strategic alignment in scaling Agile practices across larger organizations.

show more

Share/Embed