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SAFe-Agilist Leading the Change Practice Question

A global retail company is in the early stages of its SAFe transformation. The Lean-Agile Center of Excellence (LACE) is identifying the first Agile Release Trains (ARTs) to launch. According to SAFe, which TWO factors are most critical when selecting the first ART? (Choose two.)

⚠ Common exam trap

The trap here is assuming that the largest or most complex group will yield the greatest impact, when SAFe actually advises starting with a group that can deliver quick wins and has strong leadership backing.

Answer choices

Why each option matters

Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.

Correct answer & explanation

✓

Ensure the group has strong leadership support and willingness to change.

When selecting the first ART, SAFe recommends choosing a group that can deliver end-to-end value and has strong leadership support and willingness to change. These factors ensure early success, build momentum, and provide a learning platform for the rest of the organization. Starting with a manageable scope that demonstrates value is more effective than tackling the largest or most complex group. Leadership support is crucial to overcome obstacles and sustain the transformation.

Answer analysis

Option-by-option breakdown

For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.

  • ✓

    Ensure the group has strong leadership support and willingness to change.

    Why this is correct

    Strong leadership support and willingness to change are essential for the first ART. Leaders must champion the change, provide resources, and actively participate. Without leadership buy-in, the ART will struggle to overcome obstacles. SAFe emphasizes that the first ART should be a proving ground, and supportive leadership is a key enabler for success.

  • ✗

    Select the largest and most complex group to maximize impact.

    Why it's wrong here

    Starting with the largest and most complex group is risky. It can overwhelm the organization and lead to failure. SAFe advises starting with a smaller, more manageable group to learn and adapt. Early success is more important than immediate scale. Complexity should be tackled later once the organization has gained experience and confidence.

  • ✗

    Choose a group that is already highly Agile and does not need coaching.

    Why it's wrong here

    While a group with Agile experience can be beneficial, the first ART should be willing to learn and adopt SAFe practices. Assuming a group does not need coaching can lead to complacency and misalignment. SAFe is a specific framework, and even Agile teams need to learn how to operate within an ART. The focus should be on willingness to change, not existing Agile maturity.

  • ✓

    Choose a group that has a clear line of business and can deliver end-to-end value.

    Why this is correct

    Selecting a group that can deliver end-to-end value is critical because it allows the ART to demonstrate tangible business results early. This builds momentum and credibility for the transformation. It also helps the ART to focus on value delivery rather than just output. SAFe recommends starting with a value stream that can show quick wins and align with strategic goals.

  • ✗

    Select a group that has minimal dependencies on other parts of the organization.

    Why it's wrong here

    Minimal dependencies might seem appealing, but SAFe is designed to manage dependencies across the organization. The first ART should be able to demonstrate how to handle dependencies within the ART and with other groups. Choosing a group with minimal dependencies may not provide a realistic test of SAFe's dependency management. However, some level of independence can be helpful, but it is not a critical factor.

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Last reviewed September 2026 · checked against the official Scaled Agile exam blueprint

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