Explain the term "Kanban" in Lean practices.

The term "Kanban" refers to a scheduling system that is integral to Lean practices, designed to manage workflow and optimize efficiency. Originating from the Toyota Production System, Kanban utilizes visual signals (often in the form of cards or boards) to represent tasks and inventory levels, enabling teams to visualize their workflow and identify bottlenecks.

This approach allows teams to limit the amount of work in progress (WIP), ensuring that they focus on completing tasks before taking on new ones. By visualizing the flow of work, Kanban facilitates communication among team members and stakeholders, leading to improved collaboration and quicker response times to changing project demands. Ultimately, this system aids in delivering value to customers more efficiently, a core principle of Lean methodology.

The other options do not accurately capture the essence of Kanban. Controlling project budgets is related more to financial management, performance evaluation tools are focused on assessing individual contributions rather than workflow, and developing marketing strategies is outside the realm of operational efficiency and process management which Kanban is designed for. Thus, understanding Kanban as a scheduling system reinforces its role in streamlining operations and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.