Why Choose Kanban University Certifications?
The most important reason is that Kanban University created the Kanban method and holds the highest authority on the subject. They also published the first Kanban books and continue to release relevant updates, ensuring that the Kanban method stays aligned with market demands.
Kanban University training is offered worldwide by its network of authorized instructors (Accredited Kanban Trainers) who have met strict criteria to qualify as trainers. As of January 11th, 2024, there were 371 accredited trainers globally.
Kanban University itself issues certificates to students. All trainings come with a participation certificate, and the criteria for certification are outlined below.
The Kanban method is also highly effective for managing remote teams, offering visual work management, simplifying metrics analysis, and improving workflow management.
The Path

Which Training Should I Start With?
You can start with either the Team Kanban Practitioner (TKP) or the Kanban System Design (KSD | KMP1), and there are a few things to consider.
Team Kanban Practitioner (TKP) is a shorter training course that lasts just 8 hours, and you earn the Team Kanban Practitioner (TKP) certification. This makes it the quickest certification to obtain. It's also the most affordable course offered by Kanban University, perfect for learning the basics of the Kanban method. This is an excellent option if you're starting and want a foundational understanding of Kanban
Another option is to start with Kanban System Design (KSD), which was previously known as KMP1 or KMPI (hence the mention of these acronyms) because it's the first step toward the Kanban Management Professional (KMP) certification. With the KSD training, you only receive a participation certificate, and you need to complete a second training to earn the full KMP certification.
The advantage of starting with KSD is that it allows you to progress more quickly toward the most sought-after and well-regarded certification in the market, KMP.
Another matter to consider is whether you have no prior knowledge of Kanban or have only been familiar with agile methods for a short time, so it's highly recommended that you start with TKP. Once you're ready to dive deeper, you can then take the KSD.
However, if you're already familiar with Kanban and have some experience with Agile, you can go straight to KSD.
Explore each certification further to determine the best starting point for you.
Team Kanban Practitioner (TKP)
The first training is the Team Kanban Practitioner (TKP), the shortest training at just 8 hours. Kanban University describes this initial course as::
"The basics of Kanban to enable a team to get started."
This training is perfect for team members who recognize the need for improvement but still face challenges in achieving results despite their best efforts.
The Kanban method can help many teams enhance their productivity, efficiency, and effectiveness
Learn the Kanban method, with practices and principles that go beyond the Kanban board. The method is used across various fields, including industry, technology, marketing, human resources, management, legal, and sales, among others.
On Synergyc's TKP training page, you can check when the next class will be available.
Kanban System Design (KSD)
As mentioned earlier, this training is also known as KMP1 or KMPI, as it is the first step toward the Kanban Management Professional (KMP) certification. Kanban University defines this training as:
“The core of Kanban practices for designing and evolving a Kanban system.”
The KSD training explains the Kanban method in depth, equipping participants to address all team-related Kanban needs. It covers practices, metrics, and various adaptation options to tailor Kanban to the specific realities of a team.
This training is recommended for team leaders and managers aiming to achieve excellent results, improve workflow, and incorporate metrics into daily processes.
Participants will also learn that Kanban practices can be applied to teams at any stage, from newly formed to well-established high-performance teams, making the method adaptable to all team levels.
On Synergyc's KSD training page, you can check when the next class will be available.
Kanban Systems Improvement (KSI)
Also known as KMP2 or KMPII, this training is the second step toward the Kanban Management Professional (KMP) certification. Kanban University defines this training as:
“Manage and evolve a Kanban initiative. Scale beyond the team level.”
In the KSI training, we dive deeper into the Kanban method, enabling its use across the entire organization and fostering greater transparency and management. This course is recommended for managers at various organizational levels who want to connect teams, align company strategy, make quick adaptations, and increase Agility throughout the business.
In this training, participants will be introduced to the Kanban Maturity Model (KMM), a powerful tool for evolving organizational culture. Although the KMM will be explored in more depth in future courses, KSI will provide a solid introduction to the model.
On Synergyc's KSI training page, you can check when the next class will be available.
Kanban Maturity Model and Kanban Coaching
These advanced training courses are perfect for those pursuing a career as an Agile Coach using the Kanban method. Kanban University defines this training as:
“A playbook to help evolve a team or organization to higher maturity levels. Coaching skills to support the Kanban Maturity Model.”
The primary focus of these courses is on the Kanban Maturity Model (KMM), enabling greater organizational development and progress. You'll already have an introduction to this model in the KSI training.
You will earn the Kanban Coaching Professional (KCP) certification after completing both training and passing an exam.
About the Certifications
The descriptions of the training provide insight into the certifications. Here's a summary of the certifications and their order:
Team Kanban Practitioner (TKP) - The first certification is obtained with a single 8-hour training that bears the same name.
Kanban Management Professional (KMP) - The most sought-after certification in the market, consisting of the KSD and KSI training. This certification demonstrates the ability to use Kanban within teams and scale it across the organization
Kanban Coaching Professional (KCP) - Advanced certification comprising the KMM and KC training, plus an exam, suitable for those pursuing a career in Agility throughout Kanban.
At Synergyc, we offer training to help you achieve TKP and KMP certifications. Visit our course page for more details