Accelerating R2O Using SAFe in the NESDIS Common Cloud Framework

In recent years, NESDIS has been at the forefront in NOAA to adapt the Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) methodology to manage satellite applications from development to operations in the cloud computing environment, the NESDIS Common Cloud Framework (NCCF).

Agile principles have accelerated the research to operations (R2O) process and enabled quicker deployment of satellite applications.

Given the nature of satellite applications, new satellite data becomes available rapidly. Our goal is to promptly integrate the newly released satellite data into the application. With SAFe, we can add new satellite data or replace older or malfunctioning satellite data much quicker than before. In addition, SAFe brings greater flexibility during the R2O process for complex projects, which are split into multiple tasks/stories. If there is a delay for one of the tasks, we can readily deploy the other tasks, then deliver the delayed task when the blockers have been removed. This synchronized deployment considerably facilitates the operational implementation of satellite applications. As a result, through SAFe, we have prioritized cloud migration efforts, resulting in improved data availability for satellite applications. This has led to enhanced data-driven insights, and more accurate weather forecasting.

Furthermore, with the incorporation of user feedback via SAFe’s iterative approach, we have ensured that satellite solutions align closely with end-user needs and deliver tangible benefits. This agility has allowed us to respond to emerging environmental challenges and capitalize on opportunities for innovation in satellite applications.