In this rapid digital transformation across all industries, organizations are turning increasingly to using the Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) for greater agility in designing and delivering complicated solutions. It is recognized as the most effective framework for scaling agile practices using lean principles, SAFe continues to see an increasing number of people adopting it, which is driving a rapid increase in the need for certified specialists.

As per the recent project estimation, over 100,000 brand new issued SAFe accreditations are expected to be granted worldwide by 2025, which indicates the potential for individuals looking to build their career within the field of agile. Completing the Leading SAFe (SAFe Agilist) Certification, can be a strategic move for those looking to remain competitive and relevant in the new business landscape.

What Is SAFe Agilist Certification?

The SAFe Agile certification is granted to professionals who successfully complete the leading SAFe training and then complete the examination. It confirms your proficiency in the SAFe framework which incorporates Agile, Lean, and DevOps principles to enhance efficiency across all enterprises.

If you are a SAFe certified Agilist, it is a way to prove your competence to:

• Leverage Agile transformations within large companies
• Assist departments and teams in achieving the same vision and plan of action
• Facilitate Lean-Agile program execution
• Continuously improve and focus on customer delivery

If you’re a Scrum Master or Product Owner, a Project Manager or an Executive in the senior ranks this certification will allow you to successfully implement SAFe at your workplace.

Benefits of SAFe Agilist Certification

1. Career Advancement

SAFe Agilist certification gives your resume a competitive edge. As more businesses adopt SAFe, professionals who have been certified are popular in diverse industries like finance, IT manufacturing, and telecom. The certification demonstrates that you can manage complex projects and collaborate in multi Agile teams. This is an essential quality in the modern workplace.

2. Better Earning Potential

Professions with a SAFe Agilist Certification typically earn more in comparison to those who do not have the certification. According to different industry reports Certified SAFe Agilists have a higher salary because of their strategic importance when it comes to Agile Transformation initiatives.

3. Global Recognition

The framework of SAFe is utilized by a multitude of companies around the world. The SAFe accreditation indicates that your expertise is recognized and valued globally and is a great advantage when you intend to work in teams across the globe or pursue work overseas.

4. Enhanced Collaboration and Leadership

This certification will help you build your skills in Agile leadership. You will learn how to bring different Agile teams to achieve common goals in business, helping you become a better leader and participant within Agile settings.

Understanding SAFe Agilist Certification Cost

A key aspect that professionals take into consideration is one of the most important aspects to consider is SAFe Agile certification cost. Costs can differ depending on the provider of training and location, however in general, the expense to obtain SAFe Agilist certification typically varies from $529-$1200 dollars. It includes:

• An instructor-led two-day training course
• Study materials and digital workbooks
• Membership for one year with Scaled Agile Community
• The exam fee is applicable to the initial attempt

If you do not clear the examination on your first attempt, retake costs typically range from $50.

Although the initial cost may appear high, the benefits in terms of education recognition, advancement in your career can be far greater than the expense in the long term.

Who Should Consider SAFe Agilist Certification?

This certificate is perfect to:

• Project and Program Managers
• Product Managers and Owners
• Scrum Masters
• Agile Coaches and Consultants
• Senior executives and leaders are part of the Agile change

If you’re involved in a position in which expanding Agile practices is essential to success, or if you’re involved in an SAFe Implementation, this certificate can be extremely valuable.

Is It Worth the Investment?

In short, for many professionals, the SAFe Agilist certification is well worthwhile. Here’s why:

• Rising Demand: more businesses are embracing SAFe to handle the various challenges associated with expanding Agile. SAFe certified professionals are seen as essential enablers in this process.
• Skills gap: This program equips the user with evidence-based techniques and instruments to manage huge-scale Agile implementations, which is very different from the team-level Agile techniques.
• More Job Opportunities: You can be certified for positions like the Release Train Engineer (RTE) or Agile Program Manager or the Enterprise Agile Coach.
• Learning Expansion: You will gain a thorough understanding of Lean-Agile’s concepts, customer-centric thinking and an understanding of the SAFe House of Lean.

But, if you’re in a small organization that has no plans for scaling Agile beyond just a handful of teams, or you’re still in the beginning of the Agile development, this certificate may not be your top most important thing to do.

Conclusion

In a time where agility defines the success of a business, being in the forefront of innovation isn’t merely a matter of choice, but a requirement. While the SAFe Certified Agile costs may seem expensive at first but the benefits it offers with regards to skills as well as opportunities for career development makes it an attractive decision for professionals of all levels.

If you are in the field of the management of Agile change at a large massive scale, SAFe Agilist Certification may help you find your next job.