Kanban Maturity Model
What the exam tests
The Kanban Maturity Model (KMM) domain checks whether you can use the model as a diagnostic and transition guide, not as a checklist to climb. Expect questions on the seven levels (0–6) from Oblivious through Emerging, Defined, Managed, Quantitatively Managed, and Optimizing; on the distinction between practices and culture; and on “fit for purpose”-choosing practices that match context rather than the highest level.
Core rules
- KMM is descriptive, not prescriptive: it describes what good looks like at each level and offers transition guidance.
- Maturity is assessed on two dimensions: observable practices and cultural values/leadership behaviors. Practices without supporting culture regress.
- Levels describe cumulative capability, not permission slips: an organization can be at different levels in different value streams.
- “Fit for purpose” beats “highest level”: a Level 2 organization may not need Level 4 forecasting.
- KMM assessments collect evidence-artifacts, behaviors, metrics-not self-reported checklists.
- The core Kanban practices (visualize, limit WIP, manage flow, make policies explicit, implement feedback loops, improve collaboratively) are deepened at each level.
Worked example
A team has a visible board but no WIP limits and asks for Monte Carlo forecasting and service-level expectations. The coach recognizes those as Level 4 practices, assesses the team at Level 1–2, and explains the readiness gap: without stable flow and explicit policies, forecasts will be noise. The coach helps the team add WIP limits, define policies, and run a daily flow review. Forecasting is revisited once flow data is stable. Reasoning: match the intervention to the current level and evidence, not to the request.
Traps
- Treating levels as a ladder to climb and skipping Level 1–2 basics.
- Scoring maturity from practices alone while ignoring culture and leadership.
- Applying a high-level practice because a template or competitor uses it.
- Confusing the KMM with a prescriptive method or a certification checklist.