What is Kanban?
Kanban is a task management method evolved from Toyota's just-in-time production system. A board with "To Do," "Doing," and "Done" columns visualizes workflow as cards move left to right. WIP (Work In Progress) limits cap concurrent tasks to maximize focus and throughput.
Kanban is a visual workflow management method. Originally conceived by Taiichi Ohno for Toyota's manufacturing, David J. Anderson adapted it for software development. Its six core principles: visualize workflow, limit WIP, manage flow, make policies explicit, implement feedback loops, and improve collaboratively.
Three Core Kanban Elements
Speed Up Kanban's Inbox with Simple Memo
Kanban's weakness is the friction of adding new tasks to the To Do column. Capture tasks via Simple Memo, then drag them from email to your Trello or Notion board. No need to open the board at capture time — the workflow entrance becomes dramatically faster.
FAQ: Kanban
What is Kanban?
A visual workflow method from Toyota Production System. Boards with To Do/Doing/Done columns visualize work. WIP limits maximize focus and throughput.
Can I use Kanban for personal tasks?
Yes. Create a personal board in Trello or Notion. Setting WIP limits reduces half-finished tasks and improves completion rates.
How does Simple Memo integrate with Kanban?
Capture tasks via Simple Memo, then add email memos as cards to your board's To Do column. Separates fast capture from organized placement.
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