Kanban

What is the Kanban method?

The Kanban method is a visual work organization method that divides the workflow into three main categories: To Do, In Progress, Done. The aim is to continuously improve processes. To track progress, each project is divided into a number of tasks called "cards", which move through these categories until they are completed.

Meaning "label" in Japanese, the term Kanban was coined by Taiichi Ohno in the 1940s. Originally designed to optimize industrial production processes, this method is now adopted by a wide range of organizations, notably in the digital sector, to improve the organization, distribution and planning of tasks.

The benefits of the Kanban method

Organizations often use a Kanban board divided into columns to visualize their workflow. This board is a real tracking tool, enabling employees to keep an overview of projects. By moving each card from one column to another, teams can actively and dynamically track the progress of tasks.

As an agile method, Kanban favors an incremental approach, allowing collaborators to complete tasks and projects step by step. Columns help to prioritize tasks, so that we don't end up working on too many things at once, without finishing any of them. This progressive approach is a fundamental principle of successful Kanban implementation.

How do you implement it?

To effectively implement the Kanban method, certain practices are recommended:

• Gradual implementation: Integrate Kanban in stages to avoid resistance to change among employees.
• Leadership at all levels: Encourage responsibility to improve everyone's work and make the organization more agile.
• Respect existing workflow: Adapt the Kanban method to the current process without seeking to radically transform it.
• Visual usability: Add colors to differentiate tasks according to priority or the people involved, to boost productivity.

Other best practices

• Adding metrics: Include as many metrics as possible on your maps to make them easier to track and observe over time.
• Feedback loops: Incorporate regular feedback into the strategy to involve all employees and maintain a dynamic of continuous improvement.