Kanban vs Scrum: Which Is Right For Your Development Team

When it comes to project management for software development, there are two main contenders: kanban and scrum.

Both have their own benefits and drawbacks, so it can be difficult to decide which is right for your team.

Kanban definition

Kanban is a Japanese word that roughly translates to “visual signal” or “board.” The kanban system was created by Taiichi Ohno as part of the Toyota Production System.

It is often compared to the Scrum framework, but there are several key differences. At its core, kanban is a visual management system that allows for a continuous flow of work and limits the amount of work in progress (WIP) at any given time.

This helps to prevent bottlenecks and allows for better focus and improved clarity.

Scrum definition

So, what is scrum? The Scrum Guide describes it as “a framework within which people can address complex problems, while maximizing productivity and creativity.”

It’s a lightweight process that can be adapted to any project, team size or development environment. The keystone of scrum is the daily scrum meeting, also known as the stand-up.

This meeting is where team members report in on what they’ve done since the previous day’s meeting, what they’re working on today, and any blockers they’re facing.

What are the benefits of Kanban?

Kanban is a visual project management tool that can be used for software development and other process-oriented work.

With kanban, you limit the number of tasks in progress to ensure that each task is completed before starting the next one. This helps to prevent bottlenecks and keeps your team focused. In addition, kanban provides several benefits:

-It helps to visualize the workflow and identify bottlenecks.

-It allows for real-time communication of capacity and full transparency of work.

-It prevents overloading of team members.

-It allows for more flexible planning.

What are the benefits of Scrum?

The benefits of Scrum are many. Here are some key points:

– Allows for more visibility into the project as a whole

– Helps with estimation and forecasting

– Encourages team collaboration

– Creates a sense of urgency and motivation

What happens when you try to weave Kanban and Scrum together?

When it comes to kanban and scrum, there is a bit of a love-hate relationship. Many people try to use the two together, but it’s not always the most effective solution. In fact, it can often lead to more confusion and complexity.

The two frameworks are designed to work in very different ways, so trying to merge them can be challenging. What usually happens is that people tend to stick to one or the other method instead of trying to mesh them together.

If you’re interested in using kanban and scrum together, be sure to thoroughly understand how each one works and how they can be combined. There are definitely benefits to using both frameworks, but it takes a lot of effort to get them working well together.

So, what’s the verdict? Kanban or scrum? In truth, the answer is it depends. What is your team’s individual makeup and preferences?

What are your deadlines and goals?

What tools and processes do you have in place?

There is no single right answer, but careful consideration of all of these factors will help you make the best decision for your team.