Unit 2 Assignment 1 Work Breakdown Structure

What is the work breakdown structure: is a hierarchical structure of project work phases in a logical order. It links together the project scope, schedule and cost elements. It provides the basis for reporting the project cost data. However it also provides the mechanism for tracking the project’s schedule and progress. There are many different types of WBS depending on the type of project that is being done. You may use a product base WBS for projects with tangible outcomes. In a WBS you must be able to provide the correct coding to facilitate its identification and definitions of its various levels and elements. Coding enables consolidation of reports at any level of the WBS. Project coding follows a hierarchal level of elements from top of the WBS to the bottom.
The WBS has many levels however the most important level in the WBS development are the top few levels. WBS should be developed in a hierarchal outline into separate and rational sub elements. There are two approaches you can complete the WBS one is the top down were you first distribute into major work blocks; then into comprehensive and logical sub elements. Second is the bottom up were you would first create a complete list of work activities then up to major blocks. In order to have an effective project you must have a well explain project scope and a precise WBS.

Reference:
Venkataraman, R., & Pinto, J. (2012). Project Needs Assessment, Concept, Development, and Planning. In Cost & Value Management in Projects (Custom ed., Vol. 1, pp. 19-22). Hoboken: John Wiley & Sons. (Venkataraman , 2012)