Kanban, from a Japanese word for visible card or record, was developed by Taiichi Ohno at Toyota and refers to the use of visual management tools. Kanban is a communication tool often used in the just-in-time production and inventory control systems that displays production or movement.

For example, a small card or signboard (or any other authorizing device) attached to boxes of specific parts in the production line signifying the delivery of a given quantity.