Kanban is a Japanese term that refers to a visual method of managing project tasks. Kanban means “signboard” or “cards you can see.”
In its simplest form, think of three columns: To Do, Doing, and Done.
Individual tasks are written on note cards or post it notes and placed under one of the three columns enabling the project manager and team members to visually track progress through the project.
To Get Started
- Create a Kanban board. This can be a physical white board for simple projects or an electronic application for more complex projects
- Create the visuals. Either write the tasks on cards or post it notes, or enter the longer list of tasks into the electronic application
- Place the tags under the appropriate column To Do, Doing, or Done to indicate the status of the work
- Move tasks between columns. Move tasks between columns as work in accomplished and new tasks are added to the board
The first rule of the Kanban framework is to “start with what you know,” then focus on four core principles:
- Visualize the work
- Limit the work in progress
- Focus on flow
- Continuous improvement
