Kanbanmenetelmän

Kanbanmenetelmän, often referred to as Kanban, is a workflow management method that helps visualize work, limit work-in-progress, and maximize efficiency. Originating from the Toyota Production System, it's a lean manufacturing technique that has been widely adopted in various industries, including software development, IT operations, and project management.

The core principle of Kanban is the visual representation of the workflow, typically using a Kanban board. This board is divided into columns representing different stages of a process, such as "To Do," "In Progress," and "Done." Tasks, or "work items," are depicted as cards that move across the board from left to right as they progress through the workflow.

A key element of Kanban is limiting the amount of work in progress (WIP). By setting explicit limits on the number of work items allowed in each stage, Kanban teams can prevent bottlenecks, improve flow, and reduce lead times. This WIP limit encourages team members to focus on completing tasks before starting new ones, fostering a sense of urgency and efficient throughput.

Kanban also emphasizes continuous improvement and adaptation. Teams regularly review their workflow, identify areas for improvement, and make adjustments to their processes. This iterative approach allows for flexibility and responsiveness to changing demands and priorities. The focus is on delivering value incrementally and making small, continuous improvements over time.