Kanban

Biological Parallel

Quorum sensing in bacteria is biological kanban: individual cells release signal molecules that accumulate in the environment, and when concentration reaches a threshold, the entire population switches behavior simultaneously. Bioluminescent bacteria (Vibrio fischeri) glow only when population density signals 'pull' the response. Ant colonies use pheromone concentration as kanban cards—trail strength signals how many workers to 'pull' to a food source. Kanban mirrors nature's chemical signaling: demand triggers supply through environmental signals, not central planning.