What is Kanban Methodology?
Kanban is a visual workflow management methodology aimed at improving efficiency in software development and other project management environments. Originating from Japan, Kanban translates to "visual signal" or "card" and emphasizes continuous delivery without overloading the team. Key principles include visualizing tasks, limiting work in progress (WIP), and managing flow.
At the heart of Kanban is the Kanban board, a visual tool that displays each stage of work, represented by columns such as "To Do," "In Progress," and "Done." This visualization allows team members to see the entire workflow at a glance, facilitating communication and collaboration. Teams can quickly identify bottlenecks or areas needing attention.
Another essential aspect of Kanban is the WIP limit, which restricts the number of tasks in progress at any given time. This helps to maintain focus, reduces context switching, and accelerates the completion of tasks. Teams can adapt and optimize their processes based on performance metrics, leading to ongoing improvements.
Overall, Kanban supports an iterative approach, enabling teams to respond flexibly to changing priorities while continuously delivering value. This makes it a suitable methodology for dynamic and fast-paced environments, particularly in the realm of agile software development.