Work Breakdown Structure WBS 1 WBS Definition n

Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) 1

WBS Definition n Creating a Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) involves subdividing the major product deliverables into smaller, more manageable components, generally referred to as work packages. n The WBS should: n n n Describe “what” work needs to get done and not be concerned with who, when or how. Capture 100% of the known work. Work not describe in the WBS is outside the scope of the project. Expand over time as new work packages are identified (i. e. , progressive elaboration). n While sequencing the WBS is not important, it may be organized based on the selected project life-cycle process, which has implied order. 2

WBS Examples WBS Option 1 – by Phase First (My Preference) Kitchen Remodeling Design Purchase Install Appliances Fixtures Cabinets Appliances Rewiring Plumbing WBS Option 2 – by Component First Kitchen Remodeling Fixtures Cabinets Design Purchase Install Rewiring Plumbing 3

WBS Decomposition n The planned work contained within the lowest level WBS n n n components are called work packages, which can be scheduled, budgeted, assigned, and controlled. Work packages are broken down (decomposed) into activities that must be completed to create the deliverable. Each level represents further breakout of the work definition. The number of levels identified will depend on the size and complexity of the project. New work packages are identified over time (i. e. , progressive elaboration) and old ones are closed out (archived). Be worded as a noun that describes a specific product deliverable or a process to be executed within the project. Every work package should have no predecessors or successors (only tasks should be linked). 4

WBS Example (OSI Framework) This WBS was built based on the Office of Systems Integration’s (OSI) Project Life Cycle Framework 5

WBS Example (Cont. ) 11/3/2020 6

Task Definition n Work package tasks will vary based on the type of deliverable. n All tasks should start with a verb (e. g. , develop, modify). n All tasks should have at least one successor. n All tasks should have a least one named resource or role assigned. n The last task associated with a deliverable should be a milestone. n A milestone is zero duration since it is a point in time and not an activity. n All milestones should be entered to identify the deliverable or event (e. g. , data model) and use past tense verbs (e. g. , delivered, completed, approved). n A milestone task does not have any resources assigned to it. 7

WBS Chart Pro n WBS Chart Pro is an excellent tool for building and diagramming a WBS. n It integrates seamlessly with MS Project. 8