Work Breakdown Structure (WBS)

Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) is a hierarchical decomposition of the work to be executed by the project team in order to accomplish the project objectives and deliverables. It is a visual tool that helps to organize and define the scope of the project, and break down complex tasks into smaller, more manageable pieces.

In this example, the project is building a house. The WBS is broken down into several main components: Planning, Design, Construction, Testing and Commissioning, and Project Closure. Each of these components is further divided into smaller, more specific tasks or sub-components. For instance, under the Planning component, there are several tasks such as defining project scope, identifying key stakeholders, developing project schedule, determining project budget, and obtaining necessary permits and approvals. Similarly, the Construction component is broken down.

Here are the basic steps for creating a WBS:

1.Define the project scope: The first step in creating a WBS is to define the project scope, which involves identifying the project goals, objectives, and deliverables. This will help to ensure that the WBS includes all the necessary work components.

2.Identify the major project phases: Once the project scope is defined, the next step is to identify the major project phases or stages. This will help to break down the project into smaller, more manageable components.

3.Create the first-level of the WBS: The first-level of the WBS is the highest level of the hierarchy and represents the major project phases. This level should include all the major deliverables that need to be completed for each phase.

4.Break down the deliverables: Once the major deliverables are identified, the next step is to break them down into smaller, more manageable components. These components should be specific, measurable, and achievable.

5.Assign tasks and responsibilities: Once the deliverables are broken down into smaller components, the next step is to assign tasks and responsibilities to team members. This will help to ensure that everyone knows what they are responsible for and when their tasks are due.

6.Review and refine: The final step in creating a WBS is to review and refine it. This involves making sure that all the work components are included, and that the hierarchy is logical and manageable.

Creating a WBS is an important part of project management, as it helps to ensure that the project is well-organized and manageable. The WBS serves as a roadmap for the project team, outlining the tasks and responsibilities of each team member and providing a framework for the project schedule and budget.

Numbering System in WBS

Numbering is an essential part of creating a WBS as it provides a unique identifier for each work component within the hierarchy. The numbering system used in a WBS is hierarchical, meaning that each level of the WBS is assigned a unique number that indicates its place in the hierarchy.

The WBS numbering system typically uses a combination of numbers and/or letters to identify each level and sub-level of the hierarchy. For example, the first level of the WBS is typically numbered as "1," and the second level may be numbered as "1.1," "1.2," and so on. The third level may be numbered as "1.1.1," "1.1.2," "1.2.1," and so on.

The numbering system in a WBS should be consistent throughout the entire hierarchy, with each work component assigned a unique identifier that reflects its place in the hierarchy. This makes it easy to track progress and ensure that all work components are completed as planned.

Using a consistent numbering system also makes it easier to communicate the WBS to project stakeholders, as they can quickly identify the work components they are responsible for and their place in the hierarchy.

Overall, a clear and consistent numbering system is essential for creating a well-organized and manageable WBS that helps to ensure project success.