Kanban
Kanban is an agile project management methodology that visualizes work on a board with columns representing workflow stages, such as 'To Do', 'In Progress', and 'Done'. It focuses on limiting work-in-progress (WIP) to improve flow efficiency and reduce bottlenecks, enabling teams to deliver value continuously. Originating from Toyota's manufacturing system, it has been adapted for software development and other knowledge work to enhance productivity and adaptability.
Developers should learn Kanban when working in fast-paced, iterative environments where priorities shift frequently, as it provides real-time visibility into work status and helps manage workflow without fixed sprints. It is particularly useful for maintenance teams, support operations, or projects with unpredictable workloads, as it reduces cycle times and improves responsiveness to changes. By limiting WIP, it prevents overloading team members and fosters a focus on completing tasks before starting new ones.