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What is PI in PI Planning?

Published in Agile Planning 2 mins read

PI in PI Planning stands for Program Increment.

PI Planning is a crucial event in the Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) where Agile Release Trains (ARTs) align on a shared mission and vision. The Program Increment represents a specific timeframe (typically 8-12 weeks) during which the ART will deliver incremental value. Think of it as a mini-project for an entire train of agile teams.

Understanding the Program Increment

A Program Increment has several key characteristics:

  • Time-boxed: It has a defined start and end date, creating a rhythm for planning and delivery.
  • Value-Driven: The goal is to deliver demonstrable value to the end-user or customer during each PI.
  • Aligned: All teams within the ART work toward a common set of objectives for the PI.
  • Measurable: Progress is tracked and measured throughout the PI, allowing for adjustments as needed.

The Role of PI Planning

PI Planning is a two-day (typically) event that brings together all members of an ART to:

  • Define the PI Objectives: Determine what the ART will accomplish during the PI.
  • Plan Sprints: Each team plans their individual sprints within the PI timeframe.
  • Identify Dependencies: Teams identify and address dependencies between their work and the work of other teams.
  • Assess Risks: Identify and mitigate potential risks that could impact the PI.
  • Create a PI Roadmap: A visual representation of the planned work for the PI.
  • Build Team Alignment: Foster communication and collaboration among team members.

In summary, the Program Increment (PI) in PI Planning represents a time-boxed period for delivering value, and PI Planning is the collaborative process that aligns all teams within an Agile Release Train to achieve shared objectives during that increment.