Becoming a SAFe® Practice Consultant: What You Need To Know!

In today's fast-paced business environment, agile methodologies have become increasingly popular among organizations seeking to stay ahead of the curve. The Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe®) is a popular approach to agile that provides a framework for implementing agile methodologies at scale. One key role in SAFe® is the SAFe® Practice Consultant (SPC), previously known as the SAFe® Program Consultant, who plays a critical role in implementing and managing agile programs. In this article, we will explore what an SPC is, how to become one, the cost of certification, and the differences between an SPC and a SAFe® Agilist.

What is a SAFe® Practice Consultant?

A SAFe® Practice Consultant (SPC) is a professional who has been certified by Scaled Agile, Inc. to provide guidance and support for organizations seeking to implement SAFe® methodologies. The SPC is responsible for leading the planning, execution, and delivery of large-scale agile programs, as well as coaching teams on agile practices and principles. They are experts in the Scaled Agile Framework and work closely with teams to ensure successful adoption and implementation of the framework.

How do I become a SAFe® Practice Consultant?

To become a SAFe® Practice Consultant, you must first be a certified SAFe® Agilist, SAFe® Practitioner, or SAFe® Scrum Master. You will also need to have at least five years of experience in software development, testing, business analysis, or project management. Additionally, you must have experience with agile methodologies, including Scrum, Kanban, and Lean. Once you meet these requirements, you can attend a four-day SAFe® Practice Consultant certification course, which covers the skills and knowledge necessary to become a certified SPC.

The SAFe® Practice Consultant certification course covers topics such as program execution, coaching, lean-agile leadership, and continuous improvement. The course is taught by experienced SPCs who have deep expertise in the Scaled Agile Framework and agile methodologies. Upon completion of the course, you will need to pass an exam to earn your certification.

What is the cost of SAFe® Practice Consultant Certification?

The cost of the SAFe® Practice Consultant certification course varies depending on the training provider. Typically, the cost ranges from $3,495 to $4,495, which includes the four-day course, exam fee, and one-year membership to the Scaled Agile community platform. Some providers also offer discounts for early registration or group rates.

What is SAFe 5 Program Consultant?

SAFe 5 Program Consultant is the latest version of the SAFe® Practice Consultant certification. It is designed for professionals who want to specialize in the latest version of the Scaled Agile Framework, SAFe 5. The SAFe 5 Program Consultant course covers topics such as SAFe 5 principles, practices, and roles. It also covers the latest developments in agile practices, including agile product development, continuous delivery, and DevOps.

How many SAFe® Practice Consultants are there?

As of September 2022, there were around 18,193 certified SAFe® Practice Consultants worldwide. This number is constantly growing as more organizations adopt agile methodologies and seek guidance from certified SPCs.

What is the difference between SAFe® Agilist and SAFe® Practice Consultant?

The SAFe® Agilist and SAFe® Practice Consultant are both roles within the Scaled Agile Framework, but they have different responsibilities. The SAFe® Agilist is responsible for leading agile teams, implementing agile practices, and promoting agile principles within an organization. They work closely with teams to ensure that agile methodologies are being followed, and they act as a bridge between the development team and stakeholders.

On the other hand, the SAFe® Practice Consultant is responsible for implementing SAFe® at scale within an organization. They work closely with stakeholders to ensure that the framework is being implemented correctly, and they provide guidance and support to teams throughout the implementation process. They are also responsible for leading program-level agile ceremonies, such as Program Increment (PI) planning and Inspect and Adapt (I&A) workshops.

The SAFe® Practice Consultant has a more strategic role compared to the SAFe® Agilist. They have a broader view of the organization and are responsible for ensuring that all teams are aligned with the organization's goals and objectives. They also play a key role in driving continuous improvement across the organization and in ensuring that the SAFe® implementation is sustainable and scalable. The SAFe® Practice Consultant is also a critical role for organizations seeking to implement agile methodologies at scale. They have a strategic role and are responsible for ensuring that the SAFe® implementation is successful and sustainable. 

In conclusion, the SAFe® Practice Consultant certification is a valuable credential for professionals seeking to specialize in agile methodologies and lead large-scale agile programs. By becoming a certified SPC, you will be equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to help organizations implement and manage SAFe® at scale. Remember, becoming an SPC requires hard work, dedication, and extensive knowledge of agile methodologies. But with the right training and preparation, you can achieve this certification and take your career to the next level.