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Kanban practice:
Efficient work thanks to clear priorities

Illustration: learn, practise, improve

Kanban practice:
Efficient work thanks to clear priorities

Prioritizing tasks is a constant challenge in a hectic working day. As a decision-maker in particular, you are faced with the daily question: Which tasks need to be completed first and which can wait? The Kanban method offers an effective solution here.

The right order

A well-known approach to prioritization is: "Eat that frog". This method recommends completing the most unpleasant or complex task right at the start of the day. Why? Because the mental load is reduced and you can then devote yourself more productively to the remaining tasks. This approach is not only useful in day-to-day business: it can also help with weekly planning using Kanban to schedule complex tasks early on in order to avoid bottlenecks. This increases efficiency in the long term.

Unpleasant tasks first

We often tend to prioritize simple and pleasant tasks. But this is precisely where the trap lies: complex and unpleasant tasks are left undone, pile up and become a burden in the long term. By making a conscious decision to complete difficult tasks first, you create space for more efficient work and can devote yourself to easier tasks without stress.

Working with service classes

The Kanban method not only offers a visual representation of tasks, but also the option of defining different service classes. These classes help you to categorize tasks according to their priority and urgency. Typical service classes include "Expedite" for urgent and critical tasks, "Fixed Date" for time-bound activities, "Standard" for regular tasks and "Intangible" for long-term improvements.

By dividing tasks into these classes, you can see at a glance which activities require immediate action and which can be scheduled. This allows you to maintain an overview even in stressful phases and react to changes in a targeted manner.

Successful prioritization with Syscovery

Use the advantages of the Kanban method to make your organization more efficient and productive. In our Kanban training courses, you will learn how to identify and sustainably eliminate bottlenecks. Contact us to find out more about the possibilities!

May 19, 2025
This article is part of a series on Kanban, a method for controlling and optimizing work processes that focuses on improving the flow of work, reducing throughput times and increasing efficiency in companies.