Key Principles of Kanban

1. Visualizing Workflow

At the heart of Kanban lies the principle of visualizing workflow. Teams utilize Kanban boards divided into columns that represent stages of the workflow. Each task or work item is represented by a card that moves through these columns providing a transparent representation of how the .

2. Limiting Work in Progress (WIP)

A fundamental principle of Kanban is to limit the amount of work in progress (WIP). The main objective of this principle is to ensure that team members are not overwhelmed avoid multitasking and prioritize completing tasks before starting ones. By setting limits on work in progress (WIP) teams can maximize their efficiency, improve the flow of work, and speed up the delivery of outcomes.

3. Managing the Flow

The core of Kanban revolves around effectively managing the flow of work from start to finish. This involves continuously and systematically analyzing the workflow identifying any bottlenecks and making adjustments to streamline processes. By managing the flow we can achieve delivery minimize delays and optimize project performance.

4. Making Policies Clear

Kanban encourages teams to define their policies, for each stage of the workflow. These policies outline the criteria for moving tasks from one column to another providing clarity and consistency in decision making. By making these policies explicit team members share an understanding of the workflow reducing ambiguity and promoting an disciplined approach.

Kanban, which originated from manufacturing practices at Toyota has become an effective approach to project management. This article dives into the details of Kanban, explaining its core principles and highlighting its purpose in navigating the complexities of modern project environments.