The traffic light system and the concept of Kanban share several similarities. Both systems rely on visual signals to communicate information, whether it is the status of work items in Kanban or the instructions for drivers and pedestrians in the traffic light system.

They also limit the amount of work in progress, whether it is restricting the number of work items in Kanban or controlling the flow of vehicles at intersections through traffic lights.

Both systems utilise feedback loops to continuously improve performance, whether it is through regular check-ins in Kanban or the adaptive response of traffic lights to changing traffic conditions. Additionally, both systems aim to improve efficiency by reducing waste and optimising flow.