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Kanban

Definition

A visual workflow management method originating from Toyota's manufacturing system. Work items are represented as cards on a board with columns for each stage (e.g., To Do, In Progress, Done), and strict work-in-progress (WIP) limits prevent overload. PMs use Kanban when continuous flow is more appropriate than time-boxed sprints, especially for teams handling both feature work and support.

Why It Matters for Product Managers

Understanding kanban is critical for product managers because it directly influences how teams prioritize work, measure progress, and deliver value to users. PMs use Kanban when continuous flow is more appropriate than time-boxed sprints, especially for teams handling both feature work and support. Without a clear grasp of this concept, PMs risk making decisions based on assumptions rather than evidence, which can lead to wasted engineering effort and missed market opportunities.

How It Works in Practice

Engineering and product teams leverage this practice by integrating it into their regular workflow:

  • Adopt — Agree as a team on how and when to apply this practice, making it an explicit part of the team's working agreement.
  • Execute — Follow through consistently, treating the practice as a non-negotiable part of how the team operates.
  • Inspect — Regularly evaluate whether the practice is delivering the expected benefits and surface any friction.
  • Adapt — Adjust the approach based on what the team learns, keeping what works and discarding what does not.

    • The value of kanban compounds over time. Teams that commit to it consistently see improvements in velocity, quality, and cross-functional alignment.

    Common Pitfalls

  • Treating the practice as overhead rather than recognizing the quality and velocity benefits it provides.
  • Implementing the process without buy-in from the full cross-functional team.
  • Letting the process become rigid and bureaucratic instead of adapting it as the team learns and grows.

    • Related Concepts

    To build a more complete picture, explore these related concepts: Agile, Scrum, and Burndown Chart. Each connects to this term and together they form a toolkit that product managers draw on daily.

    Related Terms

    AgileScrumBurndown Chart

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is kanban in product management?+
    A visual workflow management method originating from Toyota's manufacturing system. Product managers use this concept to make more informed decisions and deliver better outcomes for users and the business.
    Why is kanban important for product teams?+
    Kanban is important because it provides structure and alignment that enable teams to ship faster, reduce waste, and maintain quality. Teams that adopt this practice consistently see improvements in collaboration, predictability, and user satisfaction.
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