Kanban

Correct Answer: To group similar work items and track parallel workflows

In Kanban, swimlanes serve the primary purpose of grouping similar work items and tracking parallel workflows. This is fundamental because: Key benefits of the correct answer: - Allows visualization of different types of work flowing through the system - Helps identify bottlenecks specific to certain work categories - Enables teams to manage multiple parallel workflows efficiently - Makes it easier to track and analyze different work item categories Why other options are incorrect: - Time limits are managed through WIP limits and cycle time metrics, not swimlanes - Task complexity is typically indicated by card size or points, not through swimlanes - Personal workload management is achieved through capacity planning and WIP limits, not dedicated swimlanes Swimlanes primarily serve an organizational and visualization purpose, helping teams categorize and track different types of work as they move through the Kanban system.

Correct Answer: To create clear guidelines for when work items should move between stages

The primary purpose of establishing explicit policies in Kanban columns is to create clear guidelines for when work items should move between stages. This is essential because: It helps teams make consistent decisions about work progression between states It creates transparency in the workflow process It enables team members to understand when items are ready to move forward It promotes self-organization while maintaining process consistency The other options are incorrect because: Formal documentation procedures are too bureaucratic and go against Kanban's principles of flexibility and flow Rigid control mechanisms contradict Kanban's emphasis on team empowerment and adaptive management Creating rules for all possible scenarios is impractical and opposes Kanban's focus on continuous improvement and adaptation to change

Correct Answer: Red dots marked on blocked items on the board

Red dots marked on blocked items is the most effective visual indicator in Kanban for tracking workflow blockages for several reasons: 1. Visual Management: Red dots provide clear, instant visual signals that align with Kanban's core principle of visual management 2. Real-time Tracking: They allow team members to see blocked items at a glance on the actual board where work is managed 3. Simplicity: It's a simple yet powerful method that doesn't require additional tools or systems 4. Physical Presence: The dots remain visible until the blockage is resolved, serving as a constant reminder The other options are less effective because: - A separate spreadsheet removes the visibility from the actual workflow board - Sticky notes with timestamps can become cluttered and difficult to track over time - Daily email updates are not visible on the board and can get lost in communication streams The red dot system promotes transparency and helps teams quickly identify and address impediments in their workflow.