Pronunciation: [kˈanbən] (IPA) 
"Kanban" is a Japanese term used in manufacturing and management systems. The spelling of this word is phonetically represented as /ˈkɑːnbɑːn/. The first syllable "kan" is pronounced with a hard "k" sound followed by a short "a" sound. The second syllable "ban" is pronounced with a long "a" sound followed by a nasal "n" sound. The correct spelling of this term is important for clear communication and understanding in the industry.
Kanban is a Japanese term that refers to a lean manufacturing or production management system. It is used to streamline and improve the efficiency of workflow in order to minimize waste and enhance productivity. The term "kanban" literally translates as "visual card" or "signboard" in Japanese.
In the context of production management, kanban utilizes visual cues, such as cards or boards, to represent work items or tasks. These visual indicators are used to communicate information about the progress and status of work, as well as to trigger the replenishment of materials or supplies needed for production.
The kanban system operates on the principles of lean manufacturing, focusing on just-in-time production and continuous improvement. It aims to create balanced flows of work, ensuring smooth and uninterrupted production cycles. By limiting work-in-progress, kanban helps prevent overproduction and excessive inventory, leading to cost savings.
The core idea behind the kanban system is to promote transparency and visibility in workflow management. It enables teams to visualize their work, understand the flow of tasks, and identify bottlenecks or inefficiencies. The use of kanban boards or cards allows team members to easily track progress, identify task dependencies, and prioritize work accordingly.
Kanban is widely used across various industries and sectors beyond manufacturing, including software development, project management, and service-oriented environments. Its simplicity, flexibility, and focus on continuous improvement make it a popular approach for enhancing efficiency, reducing waste, and optimizing workflows.
The word "kanban" has its origins in Japan. The term consists of two Japanese characters: "kan" (看) and "ban" (板). "Kan" means "visual" or "card", while "ban" refers to a signal or board.
The concept of kanban emerged from the Toyota Production System (TPS) in the 1940s and 1950s, which aimed to improve efficiency and reduce waste in manufacturing processes. Taiichi Ohno, a key figure in the development of TPS, introduced the kanban system as a visual signaling method for controlling production in real-time.
In this system, cards or visual cues were used to signal the need for specific materials or products at different stages of production. These kanban cards were used to communicate information regarding quantities, storage, and movement of items throughout the production process.
