Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) Architect Practice Test

In Agile, what further investment is necessary to extend the architectural runway?

1. Technical debt management

2. Implementation of enablers

3. Completion of user stories

4. Refactoring legacy code

The correct answer is: Implementation of enablers

Extending the architectural runway in Agile involves making necessary investments in the underlying architecture to better support future features and functionalities. This is where the implementation of enablers plays a crucial role. Enablers are types of work that support the architecture, infrastructure, and compliance aspects of a system. They can include anything from technical spikes, which are research or exploration tasks, to the building of foundational systems that will accommodate upcoming user stories. By focusing on enablers, teams proactively create a robust technical foundation that can handle upcoming demands for more complex features, effectively extending the architectural runway. This foresight not only aids in maintaining system stability as new features are added but also minimizes future technical debt, promotes better performance, and ensures alignment with business goals. While technical debt management, completion of user stories, and refactoring legacy code are important practices within Agile, they do not directly correspond to the strategic investments aimed specifically at extending the architectural runway in the same way that enablers do. Thus, the implementation of enablers is the most aligned approach for achieving this goal.