What is Kanban?

Kanban is a flow-based management method designed to help teams optimize the flow of value to customers by visualizing their work, limiting work in progress (WIP), and enhancing efficiency. Originating from Toyota’s manufacturing system, Kanban has been adapted for knowledge work, including software development and project management.

Key Components of Kanban

Visualizing Workflow

Teams use visual indicators (One of the popular ones is the Kanban board) to represent the lifecycle of their work. Work items are displayed as cards that move through columns representing different phases, such as “To Do,” “In Progress,” and “Done.” This visualization provides clarity on task status and value flow.

Limiting Work in Progress (WIP)

By setting WIP limits for each stage, teams prevent overloading and identify bottlenecks. This focus ensures tasks are completed before new ones begin, promoting a steady workflow.

Managing Flow

The goal is to achieve a smooth progression of tasks through the workflow. Teams monitor metrics like lead time (time taken from task initiation to completion) and cycle time (time taken to complete a task once work has started) to assess and improve efficiency.

Making Policies Explicit

Clearly defined guidelines, such as WIP limits and definitions of done, ensure everyone understands the process and criteria for task progression.

Implementing Feedback Loops

Regular reviews and meetings allow teams to reflect on performance and make necessary adjustments, fostering continuous improvement.

Improving Collaboratively 

Kanban encourages teams to work together in refining processes through incremental, data-driven changes.

Kanban Boards

A Kanban board is a visual tool that displays tasks across different stages of a process. It typically consists of columns representing steps like “Backlog,” “In Progress,” and “Completed.” Teams move task cards across these columns to reflect current status, providing transparency and facilitating collaboration.

Benefits for Agile and Scrum Learners

For those studying Agile and Scrum, understanding Kanban offers insights into alternative workflow management techniques. Kanban’s emphasis on visualization and flow complements Scrum’s iterative approach, providing additional tools to enhance team productivity and adaptability.

Conclusion

Incorporating Kanban principles can lead to more efficient processes, better team collaboration, and improved delivery of value to customers.