Kanban:
Definition | Examples | Synonyms
Kanban comes from the Japanese “看板”, which translates literally to “signboard.” Originally, these were real cards that companies used to make the production process more efficient. They attached paper cards to their products and only returned the cards to the production line after selling the products. This meant that it was always clear when they had to produce new items. By doing this, they allowed production to be controlled by actual demand, avoiding overproduction.
The Kanban principle has evolved from the physical production of products and has now found its way into software development. Many organizations now use this working method in project management and project portfolio management (PPM).
You can make notes of tasks, orders, or project ideas on Kanban cards. You or members of your team will then move the cards through various phases on the board. These phases are also known as state gates. You can define them individually as required. Each project must pass through one phase at a time.
In this way, the Kanban method helps you visualize the phases that a project goes through before and during implementation. Kanban can also help to visualize progress, identify bottlenecks, and increase efficiency. Furthermore, Kanban promotes continuous improvement and flexibility in working methods. It helps to achieve complete transparency of tasks and encourages clear communication in real time.
A Practical Example
Markus works in the sales department of a large software company. His job is to process customer inquiries, make offers, and generate sales. He and his colleagues organize all inquiries and potential sales using cards on a Kanban board. This allows everyone to keep track of the order portfolio and to cover for each other when needed – like if someone gets sick. The colleagues who ultimately implement the orders can also find all the details here.
On Monday morning, Markus receives a new request. He creates a new card with the customer’s name and other important information and files it in the “New Requests” column of the Kanban board. He also enters himself as the person responsible so that his coworkers know who is responsible for the inquiry. Then, he makes the customer an offer and moves the card to the “Quotation Created” phase. Now it’s time to wait for feedback from the customer. Once he hears back, Markus will then move the card to either “Won” or “Lost.”
Synonyms and Abbreviations
There are no synonyms for Kanban. The pull principle is often mistakenly used as a synonym for Kanban. Although Kanban works according to the pull principle (i.e., products or information are only provided when they are actually requested), it is a separate concept.
There are no abbreviations for Kanban.