Tools Used to Measure Kanban Metrics

The most effective measuring solution of metrics is Jira Software which is used to provide actionable insight which aids in the continuous delivery and also helps to track the metrics effortlessly. With the help of the following tools, such as control charts and cumulative flow diagrams, these key metrics are used to measure effectively. 

1. Control chart

Control chart refers to a diagnostic and graphical representation tool which provides stability and variability in the workflow. The control chart plots cycle time data points over a period, which shows an average time to take place to complete a particular task successfully and the variability around that average. This is important due to high variability often signals the instability of the process. Whenever the control chart is seen from closely all the thing revolves around the data points. Some of its possible interpretations are mentioned below:

• Between the chart’s upper and lower control limits, there is a widening gap which indicates the unpredictability of the cycle times.
• Away from the average line a clustering of points signals a bottle neck, where the tasks get stuck.

One can find out the errors or issues by scrutinizing these mentioned patterns. Thus, making the Kanban system more responsive and efficient.

2. Cumulative flow diagrams

In the Kanban system, a cumulative workflow is another visual tool which provides a layered view of all the main Kanban metrics. It consists of all different colored bands in which each of them represents different stages of the workflow. This Cumulative diagram allows to see the flow of tasks across the multiple stages in real time. While considering the work-in-progress layer, each layer offers these immediate insights which are mentioned below:

• When the layer of working-progress starts to expand, it’s a clear red flag that the tasks are accumulating and one can have a bottleneck.
• When the work-in-progress layer narrows, it suggest the tasks which are moving more quickly as compared to the new ones which are coming in. Thus, signaling that the team have some more bandwidth.

Cumulative flow diagram becomes more powerful tool for making decisions on time due to the ability of seeing these metrics which interacts in one place.

Kanban metrics offer a window into the team’s workflow, which is used to identify where improvements need to be made. These Kanban metrics are important because they serve as a navigation tool that initially helps to make informed decisions about the topics related to setting the deadlines and allocation of the required resources. In this article, detailed knowledge is provided about the key metrics, the important types of key metrics, and the tools that are used in the Kanban System.