SAFe
Framework for scaling Lean-Agile in enterprises
ISO 37001
International standard for anti-bribery management systems.
Quick Verdict
SAFe scales Agile for enterprise software delivery, enabling business agility via ARTs and PIs. ISO 37001 establishes anti-bribery systems for all organizations, requiring risk assessments and controls. Companies adopt SAFe for faster IT delivery; ISO 37001 for compliance and risk mitigation.
SAFe
Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe 6.0)
Key Features
- Coordinates 50-125 people in Agile Release Trains
- Aligns teams via 8-12 week Program Increments
- Applies 10 immutable Lean-Agile Principles
- Builds 7 Core Competencies for Business Agility
- Scales via Essential to Full configurations
ISO 37001
ISO 37001:2025 Anti-bribery management systems
Key Features
- Risk-based bribery risk assessments
- Third-party due diligence requirements
- Leadership commitment and policy
- Financial and non-financial controls
- PDCA continual improvement cycle
Detailed Analysis
A comprehensive look at the specific requirements, scope, and impact of each standard.
SAFe Details
What It Is
Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe 6.0) is a comprehensive framework for scaling Lean-Agile practices across large enterprises. Its primary purpose is achieving Business Agility by aligning strategy, execution, and operations in complex software and IT environments. SAFe employs a systems thinking approach, integrating Agile, Lean, and DevOps principles.
Key Components
- **Agile Release Trains (ARTs)50-125 person teams delivering value.
- **10 immutable Lean-Agile PrinciplesEconomic view, systems thinking, value flow.
- **7 Core CompetenciesLeadership, Team Agility, Portfolio Management, etc.
- **ConfigurationsEssential, Large Solution, Portfolio, Full. Voluntary adoption with certifications like SAFe Agilist.
Why Organizations Use It
Drives faster time-to-market (20-50%), quality improvements, employee engagement. Enables compliance in regulated sectors (GDPR, SOC 2). Reduces risks via alignment, boosts competitiveness through flow optimization and innovation.
Implementation Overview
Follow phased **Implementation Roadmapvalue stream mapping, leadership training, ART launches. Key activities: PI Planning, Inspect & Adapt. Suited for large enterprises in software/IT; global applicability, no mandatory audits.
ISO 37001 Details
What It Is
ISO 37001:2025 is a certifiable international standard for establishing, implementing, and improving an Anti-Bribery Management System (ABMS). It provides requirements to prevent, detect, and respond to bribery risks across organizations, using a risk-based PDCA (Plan-Do-Check-Act) approach focused on proportionality to organizational context.
Key Components
- Clauses 4-10 cover context, leadership, planning, support, operations, evaluation, and improvement.
- Core elements: anti-bribery policy, risk assessments, due diligence, financial/non-financial controls, training, reporting, audits.
- Built on ISO Harmonized Structure for integration with standards like ISO 9001.
- Optional third-party certification with audits.
Why Organizations Use It
- Mitigates legal risks (e.g., FCPA, UK Bribery Act) via evidentiary "reasonable steps".
- Enhances reputation, stakeholder trust, ESG alignment.
- Drives efficiencies (up to 15% compliance cost reduction), cultural shifts.
- Provides competitive edge in tenders, partnerships.
Implementation Overview
- Phased: gap analysis, risk assessment, controls, training, audits.
- Scalable for all sizes/sectors; 6-12 months typical.
- Certification involves Stage 1/2 audits, 3-year cycle.
Key Differences
| Aspect | SAFe | ISO 37001 |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Scaling Agile for enterprise software/IT | Anti-bribery management systems |
| Industry | Software, IT operations, enterprises | All sectors, public/private/not-for-profit |
| Nature | Voluntary agile scaling framework | Certifiable management system standard |
| Testing | PI planning, Inspect & Adapt workshops | Internal audits, management reviews, certification |
| Penalties | No legal penalties, implementation risks | No direct penalties, certification loss |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about SAFe and ISO 37001
SAFe FAQ
ISO 37001 FAQ
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