Yes, StrongLifts is an effective strength training program for novices. It's based on sound principles of stress, recovery, and adaptation. Because the novice lifter is able to both be stressed easily (since they are assumed to have never engaged in a serious strength training program before) as well as recovery rapidly, they have the ability to gain strength quickly. Strong Lifts, as well as programs like Starting Strength and GreySkull LP, all take advantage of this.