Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) Lean Portfolio Management Practice Exam

Value stream mapping is an essential tool in Lean Portfolio Management because it visualizes the entire workflow involved in delivering value to the customer. By creating a visual representation of the process, teams can clearly identify bottlenecks or areas where delays and inefficiencies occur. This understanding allows organizations to focus their improvement efforts on these problem areas, thereby enhancing productivity and ensuring that value flows smoothly through the system. The goal of value stream mapping is to optimize the process, eliminate waste, and ultimately deliver better value to customers more efficiently.

The other choices do not align with the principles of Lean Portfolio Management. For instance, obscuring the workflow contradicts the fundamental goal of visibility and improvement. While direct customer feedback is valuable, it is not the primary focus of value stream mapping. Lastly, enforcing strict deadlines may lead to increased pressure and does not foster an environment for continuous improvement and learning, which is core to Lean practices.