The Kanban Method
Visualize your workflow and optimize flow with pull-based task management
What Is Kanban?
Kanban (Japanese for "visual signal" or "card") originated in Toyota's manufacturing system in the 1940s. It was designed to improve efficiency by visualizing work, limiting work-in-progress, and creating a smooth "pull" flow of tasks.
In knowledge work, Kanban provides transparency into what's happening, identifies bottlenecks, and prevents overcommitment. The core principle: visualize your work and limit how much you work on at once.
Core Kanban Principles
Visualize Work
Make the invisible visible. See all tasks, their status, and who's working on what at a glance.
Limit Work-in-Progress (WIP)
Focus on finishing what you started before starting new work. WIP limits prevent multitasking and context switching.
Manage Flow
Optimize how work moves through the system. Identify and remove bottlenecks to keep tasks flowing smoothly.
Make Policies Explicit
Define clear rules for when tasks move between columns. Everyone should know what 'Done' means.
Continuous Improvement
Regularly review and optimize your process. What's slowing you down? How can you move faster?
How Boost's Kanban Works
Boost uses a Traffic Light Status System to make your workflow instantly clear:
To Do
Tasks waiting to be started
- • Click 'Doing' to start work
- • Use 'Start Focus' to begin Pomodoro
- • Edit priority/urgency inline
Doing
Active work in progress
- • Limit to 3-5 tasks max
- • Focus on completing, not starting
- • Move to Done when finished
Done
Completed tasks
- • Celebrate wins!
- • Review weekly
- • Archive old tasks
Why Kanban Works
Transparency
Everyone can see what's happening, what's blocked, and where focus is needed
Identify Bottlenecks
Visually spot where work piles up and address systemic issues
Focus on Completion
WIP limits encourage finishing tasks instead of starting new ones
Flexibility
Easy to adapt to changing priorities without rigid sprint planning
Kanban Best Practices
Limit WIP Ruthlessly
Keep your 'Doing' column small (3-5 tasks max). Finish before starting.
Daily Standup
Review the board daily. What moved? What's blocked? What needs help?
Regular Cleanup
Archive old 'Done' tasks weekly to keep the board clean and focused.
Track Cycle Time
Measure how long tasks spend in each column. Use data to improve flow.