Kanban Method | TL;DR
The Kanban method is defined as - an alternative path to agility - a method for organizational adaptation and improved business agility.
kanban with a small “k” can have different meanings depending on the language (Japanese), such as “signal”, “signal card”, “visualization board”, etc.
The Kanban method is applicable to any work environment that seeks efficiency, transparency and continuous improvement.
The Kanban method uses Kanban boards and Kanban systems as a “feature/tool” to achieve a specific goal. If you want to learn more about Kanban boards, read our article about Kanban boards!
Read on to gain more insights!
Kanban Method | An Introduction
Known for its visual workflow management and focus on continuous improvement, Kanban has transcended its manufacturing roots to empower diverse teams across industries. But with all the buzzwords surrounding Kanban, you may be wondering: what is Kanban, and is there a difference between Kanban boards, Kanban, and the Kanban method?
Understanding the differences | Kanban method, boards and systems
David J. Anderson defines the Kanban method as - an alternative path to agility - a method for organizational adaptation and improved business agility.
This method emphasizes evolutionary change over revolutionary transformation and enables individuals and teams to adopt the principles and practices at their own pace while experiencing the benefits of increased efficiency and adaptability.
In contrast to the Kanban method - kanban with a small “k” can have different meanings depending on the language (Japanese), such as “signal”, “signal card” or “visualization board”.
The Kanban Method (or capital C “Kanban”) uses Kanban boards and Kanban systems as a catalyst for change to achieve a specific outcome that helps a company be sustainable, service-oriented and viable.
In this article, we will focus on the Kanban method to provide an understanding of what it consists of and where it can be applied.
Kanban Method | Principles and general practices
Change principles
Change management is approached through an evolutionary approach that encourages incremental improvements and adapts existing work processes rather than radical overhauls. This encourages leadership at all levels and empowers teams to contribute to the continuous improvement process.
Principles for service delivery
Service delivery is guided by three core principles: focusing on customer needs and expectations, managing work efficiently to avoid overloading the system, and continuously evolving policies to improve customer and business outcomes. By adhering to these principles, teams can ensure transparency, efficient service delivery, and continuous adaptation to changing customer needs.
General practices
Common practices within Kanban emphasize visualizing workflow using Kanban boards and cards, limiting work in progress (WIP) to improve efficiency, and managing work flow to avoid bottlenecks. Additionally, making policies explicit ensures clarity and consistency, while implementing feedback loops encourages continuous learning and improvement.
By combining these principles and practices, Kanban empowers teams to achieve greater efficiency, transparency and responsiveness in their work, thereby creating a sustainable, service-oriented and viable business.
Kanban Method | Application & Benefits
Where and when can the Kanban method be used? And what are the benefits? Remember: The core principles of Kanban can be adapted to any work environment seeking improved efficiency, transparency and continuous improvement.
So the answer is simple: you can use Kanban whenever you strive for continuous improvement, increased efficiency, effectiveness and adaptability through sustainable evolutionary change.
Advantages of the Kanban method
It is a great way to balance demand and capacity.
Provides guidance with the principles and common practices for moving toward business agility.
It helps increase efficiency and predictability by focusing on improving flow, reducing waste, limiting work in progress (WIP), and more.
Creates transparency and promotes shared understanding through the visual nature of Kanban boards, which makes the team's work and progress transparent to all stakeholders.
Contains feedback loops that drive continuous improvement, adaptation and overall success.
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