What does a kanban system rely on to manage work?

A kanban system primarily relies on visual signals for replenishment, which allows teams to manage and optimize their workflows effectively. The essence of kanban is to visualize the flow of work, helping individuals and teams understand what tasks are queued, in progress, or completed at any given moment. By using visual indicators, such as cards or boards, employees can easily see when to replenish materials or start new tasks, thereby minimizing waste and ensuring that work is processed efficiently.

This visual approach facilitates better communication among team members and helps maintain a continuous flow of work without overloading resources. In cases where tasks are completed or materials are used, the visual signals prompt immediate actions, ensuring that the necessary items are ordered or tasks are initiated at the right time.

While personal management decisions, automated inventory systems, and complex software algorithms can play roles in broader operational strategies, they do not encapsulate the fundamental principle of the kanban system, which is its reliance on straightforward and clear visual cues to manage work processes.