Kanban is a methodology implemented in different fields to help the team become more efficient and drive down costs. It gives the companies flexibility to empower their team to accomplish more by improving and visualizing their workflows. In this article, we will be discussing what Kanban is and why it is so easy to use.
What is Kanban?
In simple terms, Kanban is a visual system used to manage work. It visualizes the workflow processes and the work passing through these processes. Its aim is to identify potential bottlenecks in the process and fixing them so that the work can flow at an optimal speed and cost-effectively. There are three basic elements in this system:
1. Board – The Kanban board encapsulates the workflow or the project. In a traditional project management tool, this will be called a “workspace.”
2. List or Lane – This contains a set of cards, usually from the same stage of the process, on a Kanban board in a column. It would be called a “to-do list” in a traditional project management tool.
3. Card – This is an item related to the list and board, such as a product to be made or a task to be completed. A traditional project management tool will call this a “task.”
Why is it so easy to use Kanban?
Thanks to technological development, Kanban has improved continuously, reaching a point where using it has become extremely easy. The digital Kanban solutions have made the work a lot easier, especially for the remote teams, and here is why:
1. Easy access – Teams today have members from all over the world, which has rendered the use of physical whiteboard moot. At times like this, Kanban has provided a digital solution to create a board that helps everyone get on the same track. These solutions are easily accessed by all from any device and at any time.
2. Flow analytics – Kanban digital boards usually come with sophisticated analytical processes that are easy to use and help you track performance, identify bottlenecks, and apply the required changes.
3. Integration – Digital boards can be easily integrated with other systems to provide a valuable perspective of the process, increase efficiency, and save time.
When you employ a Kanban board, you have limitless possibilities. You can even use different boards for different projects simultaneously. Some companies blend the ideals of Kanban with scrum. However, if you are just starting out with such methodologies, it is best to stick with one and get fancy later.