Kanban vs Scrum: Which is Right for Your Team?
Both Kanban and Scrum are popular agile methodologies, but they work differently. Here's how to choose.
What is Kanban?
Kanban is a visual workflow management method. You visualize your work on a board with columns (like "To Do", "In Progress", "Done") and move cards across as work progresses. There are no fixed sprints — work flows continuously.
What is Scrum?
Scrum is an iterative framework where work is organized into fixed-length sprints (usually 1-4 weeks). Teams plan sprints, execute them, and hold ceremonies (standup, review, retrospective).
When to use Kanban
- Your work doesn't fit into fixed sprints
- You need to respond to changing priorities quickly
- You want continuous delivery (not batch releases)
- Your team is small (1-5 people)
- You're doing support, maintenance, or operations work
When to use Scrum
- You have predictable, plannable work
- You need fixed deadlines and milestones
- You have a larger team (5-9 people)
- You need formal roles (Product Owner, Scrum Master)
- You're doing product development with clear roadmaps
Can you use both?
Yes! Many teams use "Scrumban" — Scrum's structure with Kanban's visual workflow. KanbanBoardFree supports this perfectly with customizable columns, WIP limits, and sprint planning.
Getting started
Start with Kanban if you're unsure. It's simpler to adopt and doesn't require ceremonies or role changes. Create a free board in KanbanBoardFree and see how it feels.