How does SAFe suggest managing cross-team dependencies?

Managing cross-team dependencies is crucial in the Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) to ensure smooth collaboration and the efficient delivery of value across multiple teams within an Agile Release Train (ART). The framework emphasizes the importance of program coordination and backlog refinement as a means to address these dependencies effectively.

Program coordination involves various roles and activities designed to align the teams' efforts toward shared goals. This includes the Program Increment (PI) planning process, where teams come together to define their objectives for the upcoming increment, identify dependencies, and negotiate commitments. By having all teams in alignment during these planning sessions, they can work collaboratively to manage the interdependencies between them.

Backlog refinement also plays a significant role in managing dependencies, as it allows teams to clarify requirements and update priorities in their backlogs. By regularly refining the backlog, teams can identify potential dependencies early, discuss them with other teams, and address them before they become blockers to progress. This proactive approach ensures that teams are not only aware of their dependencies but are also collaboratively planning how to handle them.

Together, program coordination and backlog refinement facilitate stronger collaboration between teams, minimize delays, and enhance the overall delivery of value within the ART. This method is more structured and effective for managing dependencies than relying solely on informal