SAFe
Framework for scaling Lean-Agile practices enterprise-wide
RoHS
EU regulation restricting hazardous substances in EEE.
Quick Verdict
SAFe provides voluntary scaling for enterprise Agile in software/IT, while RoHS mandates hazardous substance limits in EEE for EU market access. Companies adopt SAFe for agility gains; RoHS to avoid fines, ensure compliance, and enable sales.
SAFe
Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe 6.0)
Key Features
- Organizes 50-125 people into Agile Release Trains
- Delivers value through 8-12 week Program Increments
- Applies 10 immutable Lean-Agile principles enterprise-wide
- Builds agility via seven interconnected core competencies
- Scales via four configurable levels: Essential to Full
RoHS
Directive 2011/65/EU (RoHS 2)
Key Features
- Restricts 10 hazardous substances at homogeneous material level
- Open scope: all EEE unless explicitly excluded
- Time-limited exemptions via delegated acts
- Requires technical file and EU Declaration of Conformity
- Tiered verification: XRF screening and IEC 62321 testing
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. It integrates Agile, Lean, and systems thinking to align strategy, execution, and operations, focusing on Business Agility in software and IT environments through configurable levels from Essential to Full.
Key Components
- **Agile Release Trains (ARTs)50-125 cross-functional teams delivering via Program Increments (PIs).
- **10 Lean-Agile PrinciplesImmutable foundation like economic view and value flow.
- **Seven Core CompetenciesIncluding Lean-Agile Leadership, Team Agility, and Continuous Learning Culture.
- **Roles and EventsRTEs, PI Planning, Inspect & Adapt; no formal certification but training via Scaled Agile Academy.
Why Organizations Use It
Drives faster time-to-market (20-50%), productivity gains (30-75%), and quality improvements. Enables compliance in regulated industries (GDPR, SOC 2) via embedded governance. Builds stakeholder trust through predictable delivery and dual operating system balancing hierarchy with agility.
Implementation Overview
Phased roadmap: Value stream mapping, leadership training (SAFe Agilist), ART launches. Suited for large enterprises in IT/software; 18-24 months typical with SPC coaching, tools like Jira Align.
RoHS Details
What It Is
RoHS (Directive 2011/65/EU, recast as RoHS 2) is an EU regulation restricting hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment (EEE) to protect health and environment during waste management. It applies an open-scope approach to all EEE unless excluded, using homogeneous material concentration limits (0.1% for most substances, 0.01% for cadmium).
Key Components
- Restricts 10 substances (Pb, Hg, Cd, Cr(VI), PBB, PBDE, DEHP, BBP, DBP, DIBP) in Annex II.
- Time-limited exemptions in Annexes III/IV, amended via delegated acts.
- Requires technical documentation, EU Declaration of Conformity (DoC), and CE marking.
- Compliance via IEC 63000 documentary methods and IEC 62321 testing.
Why Organizations Use It
- Mandatory for EU market access; prevents fines, recalls.
- Reduces supply chain risks, improves recyclability with WEEE.
- Builds stakeholder trust, ESG advantages, level playing field.
Implementation Overview
- Phased: scoping, gap analysis, supplier controls, testing, documentation.
- Applies to manufacturers/importers of EEE globally selling to EU.
- Risk-based, no central certification; 10-year technical file retention.
Key Differences
| Aspect | SAFe | RoHS |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Scaling Agile for enterprise software/IT | Hazardous substances in EEE materials |
| Industry | Software, IT operations globally | Electronics manufacturing, EU-focused |
| Nature | Voluntary scaling framework | Mandatory EU product regulation |
| Testing | PI metrics, audits voluntary | XRF/ICP-MS material testing mandatory |
| Penalties | No legal penalties | Fines, recalls, market bans |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about SAFe and RoHS
SAFe FAQ
RoHS FAQ
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