How can we align to a mission in the release planning?

• A. By avoiding PI objectives
• B. By focusing on backlog items only
• C. By aligning resources after the release
• D. By using PI objectives we can align to a mission

Answer: (D)

The main concept being tested is how to tie release planning directly to the mission using PI objectives. In SAFe, PI objectives articulate the intended outcomes of a Program Increment and create a clear link between what teams plan to deliver and the overarching mission. During release planning, teams articulate PI objectives that capture the value for customers and the business, along with measurable success criteria. This provides a shared target for all teams, guides prioritization, helps surface dependencies and risks, and ensures capacity and work align with the mission from the start. That makes using PI objectives the best way to align release planning to a mission because it embeds strategic intent into the planning cadence and creates a transparent, accountable path toward delivering the mission.

Avoiding PI objectives removes the explicit alignment anchor and makes it harder for teams to coordinate around a common goal. Focusing on backlog items alone can drift from the mission if those items don’t clearly map to strategic outcomes. Aligning resources after the release is too late for cohesive planning and risks misalignment across teams.