SAFe Lean Portfolio Management (LPM) and SAFe POPM are both valuable SAFe certifications, but they focus on different levels of the organization. LPM is executive-level portfolio management, while POPM is program-level product management.
Certification Overview
SAFe Lean Portfolio Management (LPM)
LPM is an executive-level certification focusing on portfolio strategy, investment funding, lean governance, and portfolio flow. It prepares you for portfolio management and executive leadership roles.
SAFe Product Owner/Product Manager (POPM)
POPM is a program-level certification focusing on product strategy, backlog management, and value delivery within Agile Release Trains. It prepares you for Product Owner and Product Manager roles.
Key Differences
| Aspect | LPM | POPM | |--------|-----|------| | Level | Portfolio/Executive | Program/Product | | Focus | Portfolio strategy, investment funding | Product strategy, backlog management | | Target Audience | Executives, portfolio managers | Product Owners, Product Managers | | Salary Range | $145,000-$200,000+ | $97,000-$155,000 | | Duration | 2 days | 2 days | | Career Path | Portfolio Director, VP Product, C-Level | Product Manager, Senior Product Manager |
Which Certification Should You Choose?
Choose LPM if: - You're an executive or portfolio manager - You want to work at the portfolio level - You're interested in portfolio strategy and investment funding - You want executive-level SAFe expertise - You have 10+ years of experience
Choose POPM if: - You're a Product Owner or Product Manager - You want to work at the program level - You're interested in product strategy and backlog management - You want product management career paths - You're building product management skills
Career Progression
Many professionals start with POPM to build product management skills, then progress to LPM as they advance into executive roles. However, LPM can also be pursued directly if you're already in an executive position.
Training Options
Agile36 offers both LPM and POPM certifications with expert instruction and comprehensive exam preparation. Our courses prepare you for success in either role.
Ready to advance your agile career? Explore our [SAFe LPM](/safe-lpm) and [SAFe POPM](/safe-popm) courses to find the right certification for your career goals.