Scrum vs. Kanban

Scrum and Kanban represent different approaches to agile work management, each with distinct characteristics suitable for different contexts.

Scrum:

• Structures work in timeboxed iterations (Sprints)
• Teams commit to Sprint Goals and batch work upfront
• Creates predictable rhythms but less mid-Sprint flexibility
• Prescribes specific roles and five ceremonies for the structure

Kanban:

• Employs continuous flow without required timeboxes or roles
• Work items move individually as capacity permits
• Allows changing priorities at any time
• Focuses on limiting work-in-progress and optimizing flow

Scrum tends to work well for product development, requiring cross-functional collaboration and regular checkpoints. Kanban excels for service-delivery teams handling variable incoming work types or teams transitioning from more traditional processes. Some teams create hybrids like "Scrumban," using timeboxed iterations from Scrum while applying WIP limits and flow metrics from Kanban.