The WIP Report can be used to track the number of tasks or work items under implementation by a Kanban Team at any given time. This report helps the team manage its workload by setting a limit on the number of items that the team can work on, based on the availability and complexity of the work. The metrics that can be used for WIP are current WIP, average WIP, WIP age, and WIP limits. Current WIP refers to the number of work items or tasks currently in various stages of implementation. Average WIP is the average number of work items or tasks under implementation at a specific time or over a specified duration. WIP age refers to the period of time that a work item or task has been under implementation. WIP limits refer to the maximum number of tasks or work items that can be worked on by the team at a specific time or over a specified duration.
The WIP Report can be visually represented using cumulative flow diagrams (CFDs), charts, and graphs. When using a CFD, teams can determine how tasks or work items accumulate and move through the workflow by depicting the number of work items or tasks in progress at each stage of the workflow. Whether using CFDs, charts, or graphs, the WIP Report helps the team maintain flow efficiency by identifying and removing impediments, balancing workload, and improving cycle time.