Work Breakdown Structure
There are multiple work breakdown structure formats and each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Project managers select a type of WBS based upon the specifics of the project they are managing. Each WBS format emphasizes different aspects of a project. These varied perspectives may each be appropriate, depending upon what information a project manager needs.
In this Discussion, you analyze different WBS formats and evaluate whether they meet basic criteria for clarity.
To prepare:
- Explore the Work Breakdown Structure Formats document included in this week’s Learning Resources. The document presents a scenario and three corresponding WBS formats that pertain to the scenario. (SEE ATTACHED PDF FILE)
- Consider the advantages and disadvantages of each WBS format included in the document.
- Think about the level of detail dedicated to task information in each WBS format. Evaluate the formats based on the following criteria for clarity:
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- The task has a measurable status or completion.
- The task has defined start and end events.
- The task has a deliverable.
- The task’s time and cost are easily estimated.
- The task can be completed without interruption and additional input after its start.