Chapter 2 – Testing Throughout the SDLC
Work-in-Progress (WIP) Limit – ISTQB Definition
Last Updated: July 12, 2026 · SoftwareTestPilot QA Team
Official ISTQB Definition
A constraint on the maximum number of work items allowed in a given state of a Kanban workflow.
In simple words
The rule that says ‘no more than N items in this column’, forcing focus.
Exam tip
Lower WIP limits usually improve flow and shorten cycle time.
Related terms
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