Definition: Kanban

Meaning "visible record" in Japanese, it is a system of notification from one process to the other in a manufacturing system. Kanban cards, which may be multicolored based on priority, are stored in a bin or container that holds the items. They describe the parts, supplier and quantity. When the bin is emptied, the Kanban is used to order more. A two-card Kanban system uses "move" cards to relocate items from one workplace to another and "production" cards to replace the material when it is used or sold.