Why create a work breakdown structure?
A work breakdown structure (WBS) is a tool that can be used for projects, programs, and even initiatives to understand the work that has to be done to successfully produce a deliverable(s). The benefits of creating a WBS include:
- it defines and organizes the work required
- it facilitates the quick development of a schedule by allocating effort estimates to specific sections of the WBS
- it can be used to identify potential scope risks if it has a branch that is not well defined
- it provides a visual of entire scope
- it can be used to identify communication points
- it provides a visual of impacts when deliverables are falling behind
- it can be used to show and assign accountabilities and responsibilities
- it can show control points and milestones
- it provides a way to estimates project costs
- it ensures no important deliverables are forgotten
- it can assist with resource allocation
- it provides a proven and repeatable approach to planning projects
- it provides a tool for team brainstorming and collaboration
- it provides an opportunity to engage the team and make them feel invested in the planning
