Two of the most common and popular Agile methodologies are Kanban and Scrum which help organize and manage work in software development and other knowledge work domains. However, the processes they follow are completely different from each other and hence are suited for different situations. Kanban is centered around visualizing tasks and continuous flow, while Scrum is more relevant to deploying timelines for each delivery cycle and assigning set roles.
In the Kanban vs Scrum debate, both have their own features and advantages. Using the combination of both can maximize the benefits you get from each. Let’s read this blog to learn more about it.
What is Kanban?
Kanban is a visual way of project management used for tracking tasks and reducing inefficiencies in a project. The USP of the Kanban way is the Kanban board, physical or digital, which divides the phases of the project into columns. The tasks are written on cards that progress from one column to the next, till the task gets completed. By using Kanban, businesses can ensure better transparency in a project as it visualizes the differences between completed and incomplete tasks. This clarity makes the delegation of resources more effective, reducing inefficiencies.
Key benefits of Kanban include improved visibility of flow and delivery speed. Also, it improves alignment between business objectives, key results, and delivery of work.
Kanban Practices:
- Visualize the workflow
- Limit work in progress
- Streamline workflow
- Establish feedback loops
- Enhance collaboratively
What is Scrum?
Scrum is an Agile methodology designed for managing challenging projects, especially the ones that need to be changed frequently. Scrum is based on short development cycles named sprints with duration varying between 1-4 weeks. The small team of scrum consists of a scrum master and a product owner while the remaining team members are a part of the development team.
Scrum uses an iterative approach for project completion. Rather than delivering a project all at once, the team completes and delivers the tasks in stages.
The pillars on which the Scrum framework is based are:
- Transparency
- Inspection
- Adaptation
Kanban vs Scrum
Go through this tabular information to learn more about Kanban vs Scrum.
| Methodology | Kanban | Scrum |
| Roles | No pre-defined roles | Scrum master, product owner, and development team |
| Delivery cycle | Continuous | The duration of the sprint cycle is from 1-4 weeks |
| Change policy | Can be deployed at any point of time | Generally, not made during the sprint |
| Artifacts | Kanban board | Product backlog, sprint backlog, product increments |
| Tools | Jira Software, Trello, Asana, Kanbanize, and SwiftKanban | Jira Software, Axosoft, VivifyScrum, Targetprocess |
| Main concepts/pillars | Effective, efficient, predictable | Transparency, quick adaptation |
More about Kanban?
Kanban can be understood through the following workflow stages:
Cadence – The cadence to complete the work is based on the columns created for workflow stages. Common stages consist of to-do, in-progress, in-review, blocked, and done. By using the Kanban method, one can easily tailor things as per the project or team’s needs and see how many tasks are completed within the time frame.
Release method — Under this method, deliverables are released on completion rather than on a particular set schedule or predetermined due date. In case a deliverable is completed early, it can be released early or even late.
Roles– Next, the entire team can access a Kanban board, while individual contributors can have their own Kanban board to segment things further. Since there are no defined roles, it promotes collaboration and collective ownership over tasks.
Metrics- Key Kanban metrics are lead time and cycle time. Other cumulative metrics can be used to see total items in each state.
Change philosophy- In Kanban land, alterations can happen anytime and cards can be removed/blocked according to the priorities. This brings better flexibility.
What is Scrum?
Scrum is further segmented into:
Cadence– It consists of a prioritized list of deliverables or features which are tackled in a series of two-week or month-long time periods known as sprints. It holds sprint planning sessions and daily stand-up meetings to keep complete the target.
Roles- The framework lays emphasis on the entire team and its operations, drives the process, and manages the project without compromising on the deadline. More emphasis is laid on the product, managing the backlog, and determining the key priorities and requirements for the project.
Metrics- Metrics is used to enhance the overall efficiency and evaluate the progress during standup meetings. Based on the time taken to complete individual tasks makes future planning easy.
Change philosophy- In Scrum, alternations and adaptations are addressed at the end of each sprint. Once the sprint is reviewed, tasks that are left incomplete will be analyzed and added to the next sprint. During the sprint retrospective, the team will discuss the ways to manage the change in the future.
Kanban vs Scrum: Which should I choose?
In Kanban vs Scrum, both Kanban and Scrum have their separate strengths and are used for different projects.
When to Choose Kanban?
Kanban improves visibility, creates a culture of continuous improvement, and boosts productivity. This Agile methodology fits in with the already existing processes—including Scrum. If you don’t want to revamp your entire work process but want to enjoy maximum benefits from the Agile process, Kanban is an ideal choice.
When to Choose Scrum?
In the Kanban vs Scrum debate, Scrum is associated with higher productivity, quick delivery, lower costs, and enhanced quality. Many project managers also see Scrum as an effective way to manage complex projects or projects that might see frequent change. Scrum can easily detect the industry that needs frequent change, and this might include industries that have frequent technology updates, or projects creating new products.
Elevate Your Project Management with Kodehash’ Assistance
Do you want to elevate your project management? Check how Kanban vs Scrum can revolutionize your team’s workflow today with Kodehash Technologies assistance. The team is experts in Agile methodologies and will help you elevate your project management today.
Whether you want to optimize efficiency with Kanban’s visual workflow or improve collaboration through Scrum’s iterative approach, our team is here to assist you in the best possible way.
Reach out to us to get started!