How much do you know about Kanban?

What is Kanban?

Kanban was invented by Toyota Motor Corporation in the 1940's. The name comes from the Japanese word "kanban" and is mostly used in software development. It is a tool to control the production process on site in order to achieve "Just In Time" production method. Kanban applications in the software development field can be broadly divided into two categories: Kanban as a methodology and Kanban as a tool.

Kanban as a Methodology

A management method that changes as work progresses.

Principles and Fundamentals

• Start by understanding what you are doing now

• Evolve incrementally and pursue change

• Respect current processes, roles, responsibilities and positions

• Seek leadership in all positions

Core Features

• Workflow visualization

• Limit work-in-progress

• Process management

• Set clear policies

• Realize feedback rope

• Scientific improvement and development

Kanban as a tool

Kanban is a visual process management system that communicates what is to be done, when it is to be done, how long it takes to be done, etc.

Task visualization of Kanban

Task status is divided into three phases - TODO, DOING and DONE - and tasks are written on information cards or sticky notes and taped to the Kanban board.

Usage Scenarios

• Master Production Planning

• Material Requirement Planning

• Capacity Requirement Planning

• Warehouse Management

• Technical support

• Personnel Quality Requirements

Function

• Eliminate waste and overproduction

• Flexible production planning

• Rapid equipment adjustment

• Full participation in improvement activities