What are the Major Differences Between CSM vs SAFE Certification?

Today businesses are complex, and business environments are extremely competitive. In this competitive nature, it is crucial for businesses as well as professionals to be Agile. There are frameworks that professionals and eventually organizations adopt to be Agile when it comes to applying Agile in business. Certified Scrum Master (CSM) and Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) certifications are two popular choices for professionals seeking to enhance their Agile knowledge and skill and add a certification to their list of accomplishments. This article analyzes an in-depth analysis of the key parameters that differentiate the CSM vs. SAFe certifications, including their definitions, prerequisites, certification bodies, eligible attendees, exam durations, training and certification fees, roles and responsibilities, and frameworks. By understanding these aspects, individuals can make an informed decision regarding CSM or SAFe, which is better suited to their career aspirations.

CSM vs SAFe [Head-to-Head Comparison]

Before diving into the detailed comparison between SAFe and Certified Scrum Master (CSM), let's explore the distinctive features and requirements of each framework to gain a better understanding of the SAFe vs CSM certifications.

Criteria	CSM	SAFe
Definition	A certification provided by the Scrum Alliance to individuals who have received training in Scrum principles, practices, and roles.	A framework that provides guidance and best practices for scaling Agile methodologies and practices across large organizations or enterprises
Prerequisites	No specific prerequisites are required for enrollment	Minimum 5 years of software development experience required
Learning Objectives	Scrum values and principles, Agile principles, roles, values, artifacts, iteration, planning, and execution	Lean thinking, embracing agility, implementing ART, constructing a portfolio, and building a SAFe enterprise
Accreditation Body	Scrum Alliance	Scaled Agile Inc.
Target Audience	Scrum Masters, Testers, Developers, Business Analysts, Architects, Team leaders, QA Managers, Project Managers, Process leaders, senior leaders, Directors, Software engineers, Program consultants	Directors, VPs or high-ranking professionals, Solution, Technical, and System Architects, Process leads, PMO and Portfolio Managers, Product Owners and Product Managers, Program Managers, Release Train Engineers
Exam Format	50 multiple-choice questions, 60 minutes duration	45 multiple-choice questions, 60 minutes duration
Passing Criteria	Score of 37/50 (74%) to pass the exam	Score of 34/45 (75%) to pass the exam
Difficulty Level	Moderate	Difficult - Practice and training required
Certification Renewal	Every two years	Every one year

Difference Between CSM vs SAFe [A Detailed Comparison]

In this section, we will delve into the distinctions between SAFe (Scaled Agile Framework) and Scrum. These two widely used Agile methodologies offer unique approaches to software development, with SAFe catering to large-scale enterprises, while Scrum remains favored for smaller, more collaborative teams. Let's explore their key differences and understand which framework might suit your organization's needs best.

1. CSM vs SAFe: Definition 

CSM certification focuses on the Scrum framework, emphasizing collaboration, iterative development, and continuous improvement. Scrum is an iterative and incremental Agile framework that enables teams to deliver high-quality products. It provides a set of guidelines, ceremonies, and artifacts to structure the work and maximize value creation. CSM certification equips professionals with the knowledge and skills to effectively implement Scrum practices within their teams.

On the other hand, SAFe certification provides a comprehensive framework for scaling Agile practices across large organizations. SAFe incorporates principles from lean thinking, systems thinking, and Agile methodologies to establish a structured approach for managing complex projects and ensuring alignment across multiple teams and departments. It introduces the concept of Agile release trains, program increment planning, and a portfolio-level view, enabling organizations to achieve business agility. 

2. CSM vs SAFe: Prerequisites

CSM certification training does not have specific prerequisites, thus making it accessible to individuals interested in Agile methodologies and Scrum practices. You can gain a deeper understanding of Scrum principles and learn the applications of Agile Scrum methodologies in your work as a beginner. If you are making a career in product engineering, project management, process frameworks or any of similar areas, Scrum certifications will help you understand the Agile practices as well as implement the same. 

On the other hand, SAFe certification may recommend prior experience in Agile or Scrum practices. This is because SAFe certification focuses on scaling Agile practices across the organization and requires a broader understanding of Agile principles and frameworks. Having prior experience in Agile project management or working with Scrum teams can provide a solid foundation for undertaking SAFe certification.

3. CSM vs SAFe: Certification Body 

CSM certification is offered by the Scrum Alliance, a globally recognized organization in the field of Scrum and Agile practices. The Scrum Alliance provides training and certification opportunities for professionals looking to enhance their Scrum knowledge and skills. The certification process usually involves attending a two-day training workshop conducted by a certified Scrum trainer and successfully completing the evaluation criteria set by the Scrum Alliance.

SAFe certification is provided by Scaled Agile, Inc. It develops the Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe). It is a leading provider of training, consulting, and certification services related to scaling Agile practices in comparatively bigger teams or organizations. Scaled Agile, Inc. provides certifications such as SAFe Agilist (SA), SAFe Practitioner (SP), and SAFe Scrum Master (SSM) amongst others. These certifications aim to cater to different roles and levels of expertise within an organization.

4. CSM vs SAFe: Eligible Attendees 

CSM certification is ideal for individuals who aspire to become Scrum Masters and work closely with Scrum teams to facilitate the adoption of Agile practices and ensure project success. Scrum Masters act as servant-leaders, supporting the team and removing any obstacles that hinder progress. They are responsible for facilitating Scrum events, coaching the development team, and ensuring the Scrum framework is implemented efficiently. CSM certification equips professionals with the necessary knowledge and skills to perform these roles effectively.

SAFe certification, on the other hand, targets a broader audience. It is designed for those who seek to implement Agile practices at an enterprise level. This includes Agile coaches, program managers, executives, members of the Agile Center of Excellence, and anyone responsible for driving the adoption of Agile principles and practices across multiple teams and departments within an organization. The SAFe certification equips professionals with the necessary knowledge to scale Agile practices, establish Agile release trains, and implement lean-Agile principles on a larger scale.

5. CSM vs SAFe: Duration of Exam 

CSM certification examination is a format of 50 multiple-choice questions which is required to be completed within 60 minutes. You are expected to correctly answer a minimum of 37 out of 50 questions within 60 minutes to get the CSM certification. The exam aims to assess your knowledge and application skills of Scrum.

SAFe certification, on the other hand, involves a multiple-choice exam with a specific time limit. The exam typically consists of 45 questions with a time limit of 60 minutes and is administered online. You must achieve a passing score by answering a minimum of 34 questions out of 45, scoring 74% to earn your certification. The exam assesses the candidate's knowledge of SAFe principles, practices and their ability to apply them in various scenarios.

6. CSM vs SAFe: Training and Certification Fee 

The training and certification fee for CSM certification may vary depending on the training provider and location. You must do a comparative study and research of the training cost across various training partners authorized by the certifying organizations. One such example is KnowledgeHut, which offers CSM certification training and is a leader in providing the best Agile training programs that cover the essential aspects of Scrum, its implementation, and the role of a Scrum Master.

Similarly, the cost of SAFe certification varies based on the level of certification and the training provider. Scaled Agile, Inc. provides official training courses for SAFe certification, and the fees typically cover both the training and the examination. It is recommended to explore the available options and select a training provider that offers comprehensive SAFe training and certification at a competitive price.

7. CSM vs SAFe: Roles and Responsibilities

With a CSM certification, you are equipped with the knowledge and skills to take on the role of a Scrum Master effectively. Scrum Masters are responsible for facilitating Scrum events, coaching the development team, and ensuring the Scrum framework is implemented efficiently. They act as servant-leaders, removing impediments and fostering collaboration. A Scrum Master's primary focus is on the success of the team and the timely delivery of high-quality products.

The SAFe certification covers a broader spectrum of roles and responsibilities required to implement and sustain Agile practices across multiple teams and departments. It prepares you to become Agile coaches, program managers, or members of the Agile Center of Excellence. These roles involve guiding and supporting teams in implementing Agile practices, establishing Agile release trains, coordinating program increments, and aligning different levels of the organization towards a common goal.

8. CSM vs SAFe: Framework

CSM certification primarily focuses on the Scrum framework. It provides a structured approach for iterative and incremental product development. Scrum consists of specific roles (Scrum Master, Product Owner, and Development Team), events (Sprint Planning, Daily Scrum, Sprint Review, and Sprint Retrospective), and artifacts (Product Backlog, Sprint Backlog, and Increment). It emphasizes collaboration, transparency, and adaptability, enabling you and your teams to respond effectively to changing requirements and deliver valuable products.

SAFe certification introduces the Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe), which is a comprehensive framework for implementing Agile practices across large teams or organizations. SAFe builds upon the principles of lean thinking, systems thinking, and Agile methodologies to provide a structured approach for scaling Agile practices. It introduces concepts such as Agile Release Trains (ARTs), Program Increment (PI) planning, and a portfolio-level view to align strategy, execution, and delivery at different levels of the organization. SAFe aims to achieve business agility by enabling organizations to respond quickly to market changes and customer needs.

How are They Similar?

Despite their differences, CSM and SAFe certifications share common objectives and principles. Both certifications aim to enhance participants' understanding of Agile methodologies, promote collaboration, and improve project success rates. They emphasize the importance of iterative development, customer collaboration, and responding to change. Additionally, both certifications acknowledge the significance of self-organizing teams, continuous improvement, and delivering value to stakeholders.

Delve into the most popular Agile Category Courses

CSM Certification	CSPO Certification	Leading SAFe Certification
PSM Certification	SAFe Scrum Master Certification	SAFe SPC Certification
SAFe RTE Certification	SAFe POPM Certification	ICP-ACC Certification

What Should You Choose Between CSM and SAFe?

Choosing between CSM and SAFe depends on various factors, including career goals, experience level, and organizational requirements. If you aim to focus on Scrum at a team level, CSM certification may be more suitable. It provides a solid foundation in the Scrum framework, enabling professionals to effectively facilitate Scrum events and ensure the successful delivery of projects. CSM certification, offered by KnowledgeHut, provides the best Agile training experience, equipping participants with valuable knowledge and skills to thrive as Scrum Masters.

If you are a senior member in your organization and your goal is to implement Agile practices at larger teams or enterprise levels, including scaling Agile frameworks and driving organizational agility, SAFe certification provides a more detailed understanding. SAFe will equip you with the knowledge and skills to establish Agile practices across multiple teams, departments, and business units, enabling them to drive organizational transformation and achieve business agility. Scaled Agile, Inc. offers a range of SAFe certifications catering to different roles and levels of expertise within an organization.

Summary

In conclusion, both CSM and SAFe certifications present unique opportunities for individuals seeking to excel in Agile project management and implement Agile practices. CSM certification caters to those aspiring to become effective Scrum Masters and focuses on the Scrum framework, while SAFe certification offers a comprehensive approach for scaling Agile practices across large organizations. Evaluating the differences between the two and considering personal career goals, experience, and organizational context is crucial in making an informed decision on which certification aligns best with individual aspirations.

Regardless of the chosen path, investing in Agile training, such as KnowledgeHut's CSM certification, ensures participants receive the best learning experience, equipping them with valuable knowledge and skills to thrive in the dynamic world of Agile project management. This article has aimed to provide detailed comparisons, helping readers gain the necessary insights to make informed decisions regarding CSM vs. SAFe certifications.