What is a WBS (Work Breakdown Structure)?

A Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) is fundamentally a hierarchical decomposition of project work, which means it breaks down a project into smaller, more manageable components or deliverables. This structure is pivotal in project management as it helps establish a clear framework for organizing and defining the total scope of the project. By breaking the project into smaller parts, it becomes much easier to estimate timeframes, assign responsibilities, and track progress.

The hierarchical nature of a WBS allows project managers and team members to focus on individual components without losing sight of the project's overall objectives. It serves as a foundation for further planning activities, including resource allocation and scheduling. By using a WBS, project managers can ensure that all aspects of the project are addressed, minimizing the risk of oversight and ensuring clarity among team members regarding their specific tasks and deliverables.