The work breakdown structure is a graphic illustration of the project scope. It indicates the order in which project tasks will be performed, leading to the ultimate completion of the project. The work breakdown structure helps to break down big and complicated complex projects into small and manageable tasks. It also helps to facilitate the allocation of time and resources needed to successfully realize the desired outcome, also known as project scheduling.
The work breakdown structure is commonly presented in the form of a chart-like structure, a list, an idea map, or an outline form. The main objective is to define a project in a form that can easily be used by the project manager, the project team members, and other stakeholders. Regardless of the project scope, a one or two-page work breakdown structure can cover a summary of all the project information. For that reason, it allows the project team to impeccably appraise the project progress and results and make essential modifications.
The work breakdown structure will expand the definition of tasks and enhance the planning process. For instances where similar projects need to be managed simultaneously, the work breakdown structure can be improved at every stage and facilitate better-quality project delivery. For dissimilar projects, the work breakdown structure can help the project team to ensure that the project deliverables and work packages are complete before taking in more people in project planning. Since it provides room for work to be spread, different teams can be involved in planning at the same time, and the planning team can easily control the planning phase.