In a SAFe context, how important is stakeholder engagement during PI Planning?

Stakeholder engagement during Program Increment (PI) Planning is very important for alignment within a SAFe framework. Effective PI Planning brings together various teams, aligning their objectives with the broader goals of the organization. When stakeholders are actively involved, they provide crucial insights and feedback that ensure that the teams' work aligns with business priorities and customer needs. This engagement fosters a sense of ownership, empowers teams to make informed decisions, and enhances collaboration, ultimately leading to a more cohesive and strategic approach to delivering value.

Including stakeholders ensures that the planning process is transparent and that all parties understand the envisioned outcomes and constraints. It also helps the teams to identify dependencies and mitigate risks early, leading to better planning and execution of the initiatives agreed upon during the PI Planning event. Therefore, their involvement is essential to facilitate effective communication and alignment across different teams and functions.