#

SAFe vs Spotify Agile Model

26 July 2025

SAFe Model

SAFe 4.5 is a lean-agile framework for working with several Scrum teams inside the same structure. It provides a comprehensive collection of tools, ranging from scrum teams to portfolio management. SAFe even offers a whole course on how to deploy the framework as well as credentials for those who want to become SAFe coaches. It's so comprehensive that it makes one wonder about the "agile" element for someone.

Below are some benefits of the SAFe:

  • Agile practises should be codified more quickly.
  • It gives practitioners a practical foundation because they can write processes without having to wait for process development training sessions.
  • This results in a 50% reduction in faults and a 35% boost in productivity.
  • The time it takes to get a product to market has dramatically grown.

SAFe is a methodology that follows the agile framework's guidelines. SAFe will be more effective in the case of large organisations that deal with large-scale and mission-critical projects because it incorporates existing lean and agile principles in a template framework.

Spotify Model

Spotify has created the Spotify model, which is a large-scale agile methodology that became well-known. In 2012, Henrik Kniberg and Anders Ivarsson discussed it, recognising that the model had already changed. However, this concept from 2012 has become a standard, and many businesses have taken inspiration from it. It provides a simple structure that does not dictate how each squad team should operate.

The Spotify model, unlike SAFe, does not intend to be a large toolset. The Spotify model provides a simple framework that emphasises the importance of creating several interactions in order to avoid the silo effect generated by squads. It will be critical to outline how each team must work in a general sense or to give each team complete autonomy. The Spotify model doesn't go into this degree of detail.

It was never meant to be presented as a framework, but rather as a general summary of how Spotify organises product development. It covers the team hierarchy, team organisation, and the type of company culture required to make everything work.

Advantages of using Spotify model can be 1) Autonomy is frequently regarded as the framework's foundation. The Squad has direct access to the stakeholders, which is a key feature. 2) There are fewer barriers Teams that operate themselves and make their own decisions can work more quickly and avoid time-consuming bottlenecks. Without too much formality or formal process, the concept facilitates spontaneous gathering and information sharing.

Have A Question?

Get In Touch

We understand the importance of approaching each work integrally and believe in the power of simple and easy communication.

ChatBot  

Hii there👋 ! How Can I Help You !!

Hi,
How Can I Help You !!