Scrum and Kanban are both Agile frameworks, but they have distinct approaches to managing work. Here’s a clear comparison to help you understand their differences. ?
1. Basic Definition
| Scrum |
Kanban |
| An iterative framework where work is completed in fixed-length Sprints (1-4 weeks). |
A flow-based system that focuses on continuous delivery without fixed iterations. |
2. Structure & Planning
| Aspect |
Scrum |
Kanban |
| Iterations |
Uses Sprints (fixed timeboxes). |
Workflows are continuous, with no fixed iterations. |
| Work Commitment |
The team commits to completing a Sprint Backlog. |
Work is pulled as needed based on capacity. |
| Roles |
Has defined roles: Product Owner, Scrum Master, Developers. |
No required roles—teams can self-organize. |
| Work Prioritization |
Prioritized in the Product Backlog and selected during Sprint Planning. |
Prioritized in the Kanban Board and pulled as per priority. |
3. Workflow & Flexibility
| Aspect |
Scrum |
Kanban |
| Work in Progress (WIP) Limits |
No WIP limits; team commits to a Sprint's workload. |
Strict WIP limits control the number of tasks in each stage. |
| Changes During Execution |
Not allowed mid-Sprint; changes must wait until the next Sprint. |
Allowed anytime—work items can be reprioritized instantly. |
| Delivery Approach |
Work is delivered at the end of each Sprint. |
Work is delivered continuously as soon as it's ready. |
4. Meetings & Ceremonies
| Aspect |
Scrum |
Kanban |
| Daily Standup |
Required (Daily Scrum - 15 min). |
Optional but recommended for team sync. |
| Sprint Planning |
Required (Defines the Sprint scope). |
Not required; work is continuously prioritized. |
| Sprint Review & Retrospective |
Required to inspect work and improve. |
Optional; improvements happen continuously. |
5. Best Use Cases
| Scrum |
Kanban |
| Best for teams that work on complex projects with evolving requirements. |
Best for continuous work like support, maintenance, and DevOps. |
| Suitable for teams that prefer fixed schedules and iteration-based work. |
Suitable for teams that require flexibility and flow-based work. |
Which One Should You Use?
Use Scrum if :
* You need structured Sprints and defined roles.
* Your project benefits from regular planning, review, and retrospectives.
* Your team works on complex product development.
Use Kanban if :
* Your team handles ongoing tasks, maintenance, or support work.
* You need a continuous flow of work without fixed deadlines.
* You want flexibility in changing priorities anytime.
