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What Is Kanban for Software Development?

What is Kanban for software development?

Kanban for software development is a visual workflow management method that uses boards with columns representing work stages, cards for tasks, and WIP (work-in-progress) limits to prevent overload. GitScrum implements Kanban with configurable columns, 1-15 task WIP limits per column, auto-assign rules, and real-time collaboration [Source: Agile Alliance 2024].

Core principles of Kanban for developers

PrincipleDescriptionGitScrum Implementation
Visualize workflowSee all work in progressBoard columns, cards
Limit WIPPrevent overload1-15 tasks per column
Manage flowIdentify bottlenecksCumulative Flow Report
Make policies explicitClear rulesColumn descriptions
Feedback loopsRegular reviewsTeam Standup dashboard
Improve continuouslyIterate on processRetrospective notes

How to set up Kanban board for development:

  1. Create columns for your workflow - Backlog → Ready → Development → Review → Done
  2. Set WIP limits per column - Start with 2× team size for Development
  3. Add task types as labels - bug, feature, tech-debt, chore
  4. Configure auto-assign rules - Assign reviewers when entering Review column
  5. Enable auto-archive - Archive completed tasks after 7-30 days
  6. Review Cumulative Flow weekly - Identify where work stalls

Why Kanban works for development teams

  • Continuous flow - No sprint boundaries, ship when ready
  • Reduced context switching - WIP limits force focus
  • Visual bottlenecks - See where work piles up
  • Flexible priorities - Reorder backlog anytime
  • Less ceremony - No sprint planning meetings required

Kanban vs Scrum comparison

AspectKanbanScrum
IterationsContinuous flowFixed sprints
PlanningAs neededSprint planning
WIP limitsCore featureOptional
RolesFlexibleDefined roles
CeremoniesMinimalStructured
Best forContinuous deliveryPredictable releases
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