3.4 Create WBS - 3.4 Create WBS - 3.4 Create WBS
Creating a Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) is a fundamental process in project management that involves breaking down the project scope into smaller, more manageable components. The WBS provides a clear and structured approach to planning, executing, and controlling the project's work. It ensures that all project deliverables and tasks are identified and organized, making it easier to manage the project effectively.
Key Concepts
1. Deliverable-Oriented Hierarchical Decomposition
The WBS is a deliverable-oriented hierarchical decomposition of the project. This means that the project is broken down into major deliverables, which are then further divided into smaller sub-deliverables and tasks. The hierarchy helps in organizing the project work in a logical and systematic manner.
Example: For a construction project, the major deliverables might include "Foundation," "Structural Frame," and "Roofing." Each of these deliverables would then be broken down into smaller tasks such as "Excavation," "Pouring Concrete," and "Installing Steel Beams."
2. Control Accounts
Control Accounts are management control points where scope, budget, schedule, and resources are integrated and managed. They are placed at various levels of the WBS to provide a framework for tracking and controlling project performance.
Example: In a software development project, a Control Account might be set up for the "User Interface Design" deliverable. This account would include all tasks related to designing the user interface, such as "Wireframing," "Prototyping," and "User Testing."
3. Work Packages
Work Packages are the lowest level of the WBS where the project work is planned, executed, and controlled. Each Work Package represents a specific task or set of tasks that can be assigned to a team member or a group of team members. Work Packages are the basis for detailed planning and cost estimation.
Example: In an engineering project to design a new product, a Work Package might be "Design Component A." This package would include all tasks necessary to complete the design of Component A, such as "Conduct Design Review," "Create CAD Model," and "Perform Stress Analysis."
4. WBS Dictionary
The WBS Dictionary is a document that provides detailed information about each element of the WBS. It includes descriptions of the work packages, assigned resources, schedule milestones, and other relevant details. The WBS Dictionary ensures that all stakeholders have a clear understanding of the project's scope and deliverables.
Example: For a marketing campaign, the WBS Dictionary would include detailed descriptions of each Work Package, such as "Design Advertisements," "Create Social Media Content," and "Conduct Market Research." Each entry would specify the tasks involved, the responsible team members, and the expected completion dates.
5. Zero-Level, First-Level, and Subsequent Levels
The WBS is structured in levels, starting with the Zero-Level, which represents the entire project. The First-Level includes the major deliverables, and subsequent levels break down these deliverables into smaller components. This hierarchical structure helps in organizing and managing the project work effectively.
Example: In a project to develop a new software application, the Zero-Level would be the entire project, the First-Level might include "Front-End Development," "Back-End Development," and "Testing." Subsequent levels would further break down these deliverables into specific tasks and Work Packages.