PM World/Agile / Scrum / Kanban

Agile / Scrum / Kanban

Agile is the philosophy. Scrum and Kanban are specific implementations. Scrum uses time-boxed sprints (usually 2 weeks) with defined roles (Product Owner, Scrum Master, Dev Team) and ceremonies (standups, retrospectives, planning). Kanban uses continuous flow with WIP (Work In Progress) limits and visual boards. Neither is universally better — the choice depends on your team, product, and context.

Methodology Comparison

Scrum

Fixed sprints, defined roles, predictable velocity, best for product development

Kanban

Continuous flow, WIP limits, flexible priorities, best for ops/support

Scrumban

Hybrid approach combining sprint cadence with Kanban flow and WIP limits

Real-World Example

Spotify famously evolved beyond pure Scrum into their "Squad" model — small cross-functional teams (Squads) grouped into Tribes, with Chapters and Guilds for knowledge sharing. This shows that mature organizations adapt methodologies rather than following them rigidly.