Quick Definition:
WIP (Work-in-Progress) Limits are constraints on the number of work items that can be in a specific stage of a process at any given time. They are a core practice of Kanban.
Why Use WIP Limits?
- Reduce Multitasking: Encourages team members to focus on finishing tasks before starting new ones.
- Identify Bottlenecks: When a stage reaches its WIP limit, it highlights a problem in the flow.
- Improve Flow: By limiting the amount of work in the system, you can actually deliver work faster (Little’s Law).
Setting WIP Limits
Start with a limit that feels slightly uncomfortable and then adjust it based on the team’s performance and flow.
