Choosing the right SAFe Training and Certification option can be a daunting task. The Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) has grown increasingly in popularity over recent years, becoming an integral part of many organizations’ operating frameworks. It helps guide teams on how to deliver complex projects more efficiently and effectively than ever before. However, with multiple types of training and certifications available from different providers all claiming to offer the best course for you, selecting one can seem like a herculean effort.

To help make this decision easier, we’ve broken down the features that set each type of SAFe certification apart so you can decide which is best for you.

Different types of SAFE (Scaled Agile Framework) Agile certifications

The Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) is a framework developed to help organizations adopt an Agile approach at scale. It is most often used by large organizations that have multiple teams or departments working on different projects and require an overall system for successful collaboration.

SAFe offers several certifications to recognize individuals with the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to promote or lead successful agile transformations within their organization. The different types of SAFe Agile Certifications are designed to recognize individuals with an in-depth understanding of the entire SAFe methodology and its related components, roles, ceremonies, and artifacts.

Let’s have a look at the certifications.

Certified SAFe® Program Consultants (SPC) Certification

This certification recognizes professionals who have in-depth understanding of the entire SAFe methodology, including Lean-Agile principles, practices, values and competencies needed for Business Agility at Scale.

Obtaining a Certified SAFe® Program Consultant (SPC) Certification offers many advantages for businesses and individual professionals. It provides an understanding of the Scaled Agile Framework, which allows organizations to effectively set up and manage safe program implementations at the enterprise level.

Individuals with this Certification gain credibility in their workplace and the opportunity for greater job growth within their organization. Those individuals can understand complex customer needs and provide added value throughout the entire program lifecycle. Finally, an SPC Certification adds the extra assurance that projects will be on track all the time, ensuring successful outcomes with every integration or launch.

SAFe Release Train Engineer (RTE)

This certification recognizes professionals who can effectively plan and manage the flow of value delivery within an Agile Release Train.

The role of a Release Train Engineer (RTE) is critical in the field of IT, offering the opportunity to be a key player in product delivery. RTEs are responsible for the overall program execution of Agile Release Trains (ARTs), balancing the demands of stakeholders and managing interdependencies between teams.

Their leadership enables them to keep communication between parties and ensure that high-quality products are delivered on time. They must have strong problem-solving abilities, an excellent understanding of Agile methodology, and advanced technical skills. If you relish working in a fast-paced environment and possess these core competencies, consider pursuing a Release Train Engineer career.

SAFe® 6.0 Scrum Master (SSM) Certification

This certification recognizes professionals who have a deep understanding of Agile principles, practices, and values and how to apply them in a team setting.

The SAFe® 6.0 Scrum Master (SSM) certification is a highly-regarded professional qualification within the agile industry. SSM-certified professionals are trained to perform the essential functions of a scrum master, such as facilitating communication between product owners and development teams, prompting identified needs, and helping to ensure product delivery times and goals are met.

Beyond the core skills, SSM-certified professionals will also be able to look at holistic solutions, understanding the capabilities needed in a larger enterprise environment and how they relate to each other. Relationship management is also an important skill emphasized during training which ensures that all stakeholders learn and cooperate effectively. The SAFe® 5.1 Scrum Master (SSM) certification is one of the best ways to ensure you have the necessary expertise in agile software management.

Sustainable Green Printing Partnership (SGP) Certification

The Sustainable Green Printing Partnership SGP Certification is a valuable asset to printing companies of all sizes looking to reduce their environmental impacts. This certification allows for businesses to carefully assess their procedures by verifying compliance with applicable laws and regulations, operating responsibly in regard to recycling and waste management, along with promoting a responsible use of energy.

It can also lead to reduced costs in terms of raw materials, labor, and energy utilization. Furthermore, customers that are eco-minded will be given the peace of mind knowing exactly what goes into the production of their printed goods, providing them a greater level of trust when doing business with an organization that holds this certification.

Certified SAFe® DevOps Practitioner (SDP) Certification

SAFe DevOps Practitioner certification recognizes professionals who understand how to integrate development and operations to improve product delivery process efficiencies.

The Certified SAFe® DevOps Practitioner (SDP) Certification is an important asset for any aspiring IT professional. This certification recognizes individuals who demonstrate the ability to implement DevOps practices and apply Lean-Agile principles at scale. Those individuals with the SDP certificate are equipped with a strong knowledge base to provide expertise in advanced DevOps practices, continue to build upon their skillset, and remain competitive within today’s rapidly evolving IT landscape.

The certification benefits professionals by providing them with the tools necessary to increase organizational agility, performance, and business value while eliminating waste. Earning this certification provides essential assurance that stakeholders have the confidence they need in their teams in order to ensure successful projects.

Architectural Registration and Certification Host (ARCH) Certification

For anyone passionate and dedicated to the art of architecture, earning an Architectural Registration and Certification Host (ARCH) certification is a great first step toward becoming recognized as an outstanding professional. Developing your skills with this certification can help make you stand out amongst other colleagues in the industry and equip you with critical knowledge in building codes, structural design, and health-and-safety regulations.

Staying on top of these regulations will also help designers stay updated on current trends and allow them to create new ones. Pursuing ARCH certification demonstrates dedication to continuously enhancing professional qualifications in architecture – ensuring you have a competitive edge over others.

Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Certification

This certification recognizes professionals who understand the principles of software engineering and the various techniques necessary to design mission-critical applications using Agile methods.

The Automotive Service Excellence ASE Certification is the gold standard for automotive technicians in North America. National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certifies and tests automotive technicians to ensure they possess the knowledge and skills necessary to perform at a higher level of service.

Obtaining ASE certification can greatly benefit you as an automotive technician since certification gives consumers confidence in knowing they are receiving professional service. Furthermore, having an ASE Certification shows that you are willing to go the extra mile and be committed to excellence in your profession. Becoming ASE certified not only demonstrates your technical proficiency and expertise but proves that you can meet industry standards set forth by ASE.

Certified SAFe® Advanced Scrum Master (SASM) Certification

This certification recognizes professionals with advanced understanding of Agile practices and principles, including Lean Thinking, Product Ownership, Lean User Stories and Backlog Refinement.

Earning the Certified SAFe® Advanced Scrum Master (SASM) certification can be a rewarding experience with numerous benefits. It is reliable proof that one has acquired an advanced understanding of Scrum master roles and responsibilities and the ability to apply the framework effectively. Obtaining this certification involves intensive study and serious commitment, yet given its recognition, the effort is well worth it.

Being certified as an Advanced Scrum Master allows professionals to demonstrate their expertise in leading agile teams while leveraging on effective implementations of SAFe processes. Enhanced credibility also goes hand in hand with this certification and offers outstanding value for anyone looking to excel in their career.