Kanban

Kanban is a pull-based production control system developed by Taiichi Ohno at Toyota in the 1950s that uses visual signals (traditionally cards or bins) to trigger production and movement of materials based on actual demand rather than forecasts. The Japanese word 'kanban' means 'visual card' or 'sign,' and the system operates on the principle that work should flow in response to downstream requirements. Kanban is a foundational element of the Toyota Production System and lean manufacturing, enabling just-in-time production, reduced inventory, and improved flow efficiency.