A work breakdown structure is a visual representation of the project broken down to the basic steps (but not with too much detail). Creating a work breakdown structure helps the manager understand the full breadth of the project. Since all parts of the project are included in the diagram, this tool can help a project manager keep a project on track and avoid scope creep. Regardless of the type of WBS, the lower level elements are the deliverables needed to complete the work.

In addition to the diagram, a WBS includes a WBS dictionary, which lists out all of the elements in the diagram and adds more information, such as the responsible individual, a description, deliverables, and acceptance criteria.

Deliverable-Based WBS

A Deliverable-Based WBS breaks the project down into the main deliverables of a project and the sub-deliverables needed for each part.

Phase-Based WBS

A Phase-Based WBS breaks the project down into phases, or the steps needed to complete the project. The Level 1 elements (the teal elements in the chart below) are each phase and is made up of the deliverables needed for that phase.

Conclusion

Regardless of which type of WBS diagram chosen, a project manager can greatly benefit from having a diagram that shows an overview of the project.

Please check out the other posts in my Project Management series!