Dependencies and dependency graph

Dependencies and dependency graph

Kitemaker lets you create dependencies between work items. This is a great way to notify team members about blocked work items or help communicate when a work item depends on completing another work item.

There are currently four different types of dependencies:

  • Dependency (hotkey - then d) means that the work item depends on completing another work item. The other work item will automatically be marked as enabling.
  • Enabling (hotkey - then e) that is the inverse of a dependency. It means that completing the work item enables another work item. The other work item will automatically be marked as having a dependency.
  • Blocked (hotkey -then x) means that the work item is blocked by another work item. The other work item will automatically be marked as blocking, and members will receive a notification about this.
  • Blocking (hotkey - then b) means the work item is blocking another work item. The other work item will automatically be marked as blocked, and members will receive a notification about this.
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Blocked work items will also be rendered with a red outline in the board and dependency graph.

Dependency graph

You can view all dependencies across the organization by opening the dependency graph. You’ll find it in the sidebar and can always access it via the hotkeys g then d

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You can use arrow keys to navigate the dependency graph, enter to open work items and use all the other hotkeys that you can use on the board. Note that the paths and work items connected to the focused work item will be highlighted to allow you to easily see the dependencies.

At the top of the screen, you can also filter the dependency graph (also available by pressing f), enabling you to focus on specific dependencies. Only work items connected to the matching work items are shown when the dependency graph is filtered.