Business Agility Now Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

“I think there is magic in SAFe, and it’s called Inspect and Adapt because it’s such an important moment for an [Agile Release] train at a company to inspect the product delivered.” In this episode, Adam talks to Gerben Kollaard, Release Train Engineer (RTE) at the Dutch Tax Authority. The two discuss Gerben’s experience switching from the commercial insurance industry to a government context where Inspect and Adapt (I&A) workshops were not being done regularly or effectively. Gerben highlights the challenges of defining and identifying customers at a government organization and how that impacts the Agile mindset and practices. He also shares some of his favorite facilitation techniques for problem-solving workshops, including the 50-percent solution mindset. Like what you hear? Connect with Gerben on LinkedIn where you’ll also find his I&A blog series. Explore SAFe courses here.

A lot of changes happen when companies organize and reorganize around value, which can feel overwhelming. In this episode, SAFe® Fellow and SPCT Eric Willeke from Shaping Agility shares his tips for what to focus on and when, as well as four key things to do to achieve flow throughout your portfolio. Like what you hear? Connect with Eric on LinkedIn. Explore SAFe courses here.

If you’re an indirect leader, for example, a Release Train Engineer (RTE) or business owner, how can you ensure your intent is accurately communicated to the people doing the work? In this episode, Carl Starendal, SAFe® Fellow, shares proven science from Sweden about giving orders from an indirect leadership position. Hint: it involves the how, the what, and the why. Like what you hear? Connect with Carl on LinkedIn. Explore SAFe courses here.

Have you heard the news? 2023 is the year of the product manager. Well, it is according to Eduardo Alvim, senior trainer/consultant and SPCT. In this episode, he and Adam dive into why product management will be front and center this year—and what that means. They also discuss the five types of product managers and the importance of storytelling in product management.

Is design thinking just a buzzword? In today's episode, Adam explains what design thinking is and how you can start using it right now to make your job a little easier.

Today's question is about The Open Group Architecture Framework (TOGAF). While SAFe acknowledges TOGAF, how do the different roles in that framework map to SAFe roles? Adam discusses what roles related to TOGAF are and aren't in SAFe, and why.

You're probably familiar with the term NFRs but do you know how they can impact your backlog, and your life? In today's episode, Adam explains what NFRs are and suggests some ways you can use them to your advantage.

Today's topic tackles a common question: I'm a certified SPC. What training should I take next to advance my career? In addition to the easy answer, "it depends," Adam offers tactical advice and suggestions on ways to answer that question yourself.

You may know SPCT and SAFe® Fellow Carl Starendal for his work around the RTE role, but did you know he has a Norwegian Grammy Award? And that a lot of what he learned about project management and group dynamics happened on a tour bus? In this episode, Carl and Adam discuss parallels between SAFe and the music business, leadership behaviors, and how to modify cultural patterns.

Deciding how to build teams is complicated, especially when reporting structures and workplace politics are involved. In today's episode, learn about a more productive approach designed to help you organize teams effectively around delivering value in your organization.