Weighted Shortest Job First (WSJF)
Weighted Shortest Job First (WSJF) is a prioritization model used in SAFe that calculates priority by dividing the Cost of Delay by the job size, ensuring the highest-value, smallest items are done first.
Explanation
WSJF is based on economic theory and the principle that sequencing work by the cost of delay divided by duration optimizes economic outcomes. Cost of Delay is composed of three factors: user-business value (how much value the item delivers), time criticality (how urgently the item is needed), and risk reduction or opportunity enablement value (how much risk is reduced or what future opportunities are enabled).
The formula is: WSJF = Cost of Delay / Job Size. Items with the highest WSJF score are prioritized first because they deliver the most value per unit of effort. This approach prevents teams from always doing the largest or most exciting items first and instead focuses on economic optimization.
In practice, WSJF uses relative sizing (often Fibonacci numbers) rather than absolute values. The team estimates Cost of Delay components and job size relative to other items in the backlog. WSJF is a key practice in SAFe for prioritizing Program Increments and features.
Key Points
- •Formula: Cost of Delay divided by Job Size
- •Cost of Delay includes business value, time criticality, and risk reduction/opportunity enablement
- •Higher WSJF score means higher priority
- •Uses relative estimation, not absolute values
Exam Tip
WSJF prioritizes by economic value per unit of effort. Remember: WSJF = Cost of Delay / Job Size. Higher scores get done first.
Frequently Asked Questions
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