Understanding the Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) Process for Multiple Projects and Programs

1.0 Introduction to the Structure of a WBS A Work Breakdown Structure or Work Element Pyramid is a results-oriented family tree that captures all the work of a project in an organized way. It is often portrayed graphically as a hierarchical tree, however outlined; it should organize and define the scope of the project. It can also be a tabular list of "elements" categories and tasks or the indented task list that appears in your Gantt …

…views as people in the process. The most important thing is to ensure you capture the main efforts and tasks to be accomplished and that you have stakeholder concurrence on the WBS for the project. References: Pennypacker & Dye "Managing Multiple Projects; chapter 3" 2002 "Project management production and manufacturing" online: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tree_structure "US Department of Defense (DoD) Handbook Work Breakdown Structure" online: http://www.acq.osd.mil/pm/currentpolicy.tm