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Difference Between Kanban and Scrum

Introduction

Kanban and Scrum are two popular methodologies used in project management. Both methodologies are Agile approaches to project management, which means they prioritize flexibility, adaptability, and customer satisfaction. However, there are significant differences between the two methodologies. In this blog post, we will discuss the differences between Kanban and Scrum.

Kanban vs. Scrum

To understand the differences between Kanban and Scrum, let’s have a look at the following table.

KanbanScrum
Focus on continuous deliveryFocus on iterations
No specific rolesSpecific roles, including Product Owner and Scrum Master
Emphasizes on minimizing work in progressEmphasizes on delivering work in sprints
Work is pulled from the backlog when capacity is availableWork is planned in sprints
No specific timebox for completing workSprints are time-boxed
Continuous improvement is encouragedRetrospectives are held at the end of each sprint

Focus on Continuous Delivery vs. Focus on Iterations

The primary difference between Kanban and Scrum is their approach to delivery. Kanban focuses on continuous delivery, while Scrum focuses on iterations. In Kanban, work is delivered as soon as it is ready. There are no time-boxed iterations, and work is pulled from the backlog only when there is capacity available. In Scrum, work is planned in sprints, which are time-boxed iterations. Work is delivered in increments at the end of each sprint.

No Specific Roles vs. Specific Roles

Another difference between Kanban and Scrum is the roles involved. Kanban does not have any specific roles, while Scrum has specific roles, including Product Owner and Scrum Master. In Kanban, the team is self-organized and takes responsibility for the work. In Scrum, the Product Owner is responsible for defining the product backlog, while the Scrum Master is responsible for ensuring that the Scrum process is followed.

Minimizing Work in Progress vs. Delivering Work in Sprints

Kanban emphasizes minimizing work in progress, while Scrum emphasizes delivering work in sprints. In Kanban, the team focuses on completing one piece of work before starting another. This approach helps to prevent multitasking, which can lead to delays and mistakes. In Scrum, work is planned in sprints, and the team works to complete the work planned for each sprint.

Conclusion

In summary, Kanban and Scrum are both Agile methodologies used in project management. However, they have significant differences in their approach to delivery, roles involved, and work management. Choosing between the two methodologies depends on the specific needs of the project and the team. It is important to understand the differences between the two methodologies to make an informed decision.


Written on Notion App. Cover pic generated on craiyon.com/.

Dinker Charak

Dinker has over a decade of experience in building products across diverse domains such as Industrial Automation, Home Automation, Operating Systems, High Energy Particle Physics, Embedded Systems, Online Video Advertising, Messaging, K-12 education and Private Banking. He also founded Gungroo Software. He books '#ProMa: Product Management Tools, Methods & Some Off-the-wall Ideas' and 'The Neutrinos Are Coming and Other Stories' are available globally. He also manages adbhut.in, an Indian Sci-fi portal.