Definition
A Work in Progress (WIP) limit is a constraint on the amount of work that can be in a specific stage of a workflow at any given time. It is a core principle of Kanban and Lean methodologies designed to improve flow and reduce bottlenecks. By setting a maximum number of tasks allowed in a particular column or state, teams actively manage their capacity and prevent overburdening. This practice helps teams identify and address impediments more quickly, leading to faster delivery and higher quality outcomes. For instance, a development team might limit the 'In Review' column to three items, ensuring code is actively being reviewed rather than piling up. A common misunderstanding is confusing a WIP limit with a deadline, which is a fixed end date, whereas a WIP limit is about managing flow within a process. Understanding WIP limits is crucial for agile practitioners and appears on exams like the PMI-ACP and CAPM.