What is the difference between Scrum and Kanban?
sobes.tech AI
Answer from AI
Scrum and Kanban are two popular agile frameworks used in software development, but with different approaches and focuses.
Main differences:
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Roles: Scrum has clearly defined roles (Product Owner, Scrum Master, Development Team). Kanban does not prescribe roles but may have flow managers and service owners.
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Timeframes: Scrum works with fixed time intervals - Sprints (usually 1-4 weeks). Kanban focuses on a continuous flow of work without fixed time frames for individual items.
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Increments and Deliveries: In Scrum, an increment is prepared for delivery at the end of each Sprint. In Kanban, delivery can occur continuously as soon as a work item is completed.
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Planning: In Scrum, Sprint planning occurs at the beginning of each Sprint. In Kanban, planning is more flexible and occurs "as needed," often based on reaching certain replenishment points.
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Changes: In Scrum, changes during a Sprint are not encouraged after it has started. In Kanban, changes can be accepted more flexibly, as there are no fixed time intervals for individual work.
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Metrics: Scrum uses metrics like Velocity (team speed) and Burn-down charts. Kanban focuses on flow metrics: Lead Time, Cycle Time, Throughput.
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Principles: Scrum is based on empirical process principles (transparency, inspection, adaptation). Kanban focuses on visualizing the flow of work, limiting WIP (Work In Progress), and flow management.
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Boards: In Scrum, the board is often reset at the beginning of each Sprint. In Kanban, the board is permanent and reflects the current state of the workflow.
| Characteristic | Scrum | Kanban |
|---|---|---|
| Roles | Defined (PO, SM, Dev Team) | No prescribed roles |
| Timeframes | Fixed Sprints | Continuous flow |
| Deliveries | At the end of Sprint | Can be continuous |
| Planning | At the beginning of Sprint | As needed, replenishment |
| Changes | Not encouraged during Sprint | More flexible acceptance |
| Metrics | Velocity, Burn-down | Lead Time, Cycle Time, Throughput |
| Principles | Empirical process | Visualization, WIP limits, flow management |
| Board | Reset after Sprint | Permanent |
The choice between Scrum and Kanban depends on the specifics of the project, team maturity, predictability of requirements, and desired flexibility.