Kanban, which means "Cards you can see" in Japanese, is a widely used visual workflow method in Lean. Using Kanban boards can help you keep track of the workflow and stay informed about the progress of each task. The Kanban system is a lean concept linked to Just in Time (JIT) production. It helps you determine what to produce, when, and in what quantity, based on available capacity to work. By visualising the operational workflow and the actual work being carried out in the process, Kanban helps identify bottlenecks and facilitates their resolution. This ensures the smooth flow of operations, improved throughput, and reduced delivery lead times.
Benefits of using a Kanban board
Increased transparency:
Using Kanban boards improves progress tracking, team communication, and productivity by identifying process roadblocks.
Enhanced Flexibility:
Kanban boards are practical tools for managing tasks in progress and allocating work based on capacity. One of the key advantages of using a Kanban board is that it can be implemented without disrupting existing workflows and processes that are already working well. The board is highly configurable, which allows teams to evaluate strategies and improve workflow. Additionally, the board evolves as the process evolves, making it a flexible and adaptable tool for managing work. Kanban boards are a powerful way to streamline work management and increase productivity.
Less Cycle time, increased output:
In the Kanban system, each team member is responsible for ensuring that the workflow moves smoothly from start to finish. Cycle Time in Kanban refers to the time taken between the commencement and completion of a task. By optimising the cycle time, the team can adjust their work to increase their overall productivity.
Resource Allocation and Waste Reduction:
Kanban is a lean tool commonly used for resource allocation and waste reduction.