The word kanban means “sign” or “signboard” in Japanese and is often used in conjunction with lean or just-in-time principles for scheduling and manufacturing. Kanban is a “pull” system, whereby product, parts, or inventory move forward based on customer demand, thus eliminating inventory, waste, and resources.

As a process control system, kanban originated about 50 years ago at Toyota as a way to enhance improvement for production. Although it was originally designed for use in manufacturing, today it is used within a wide range of industries. Kanban has proven to be so adaptable that it can be used on any software development project—regardless of the size of the team, or even if you are the only person on the project.

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