2.
Work Breakdown Structure (WBS)
The Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) is a hierarchical decomposition of the project into deliverables
and tasks. Here’s a step-by-step guide to completing this section effectively:
Key Components of the WBS
1. Level 1: Project Title
o This is the overall project name or goal.
2. Level 2: Major Deliverables
o Break the project into 4–6 major categories, representing key phases or workstreams.
3. Level 3: Sub-deliverables/Tasks
o Decompose each major deliverable into smaller tasks.
o Each task should be clear, actionable, and mutually exclusive.
4. Level 4: Work Packages (Optional)
o If necessary, further decompose tasks into work packages with specific assignments or
outputs.
Example of a WBS
Level 1: Project Title
Launch of an E-commerce Website
Level 2: Major Deliverables
1. Project Planning
o Task 1: Develop the project charter.
o Task 2: Identify stakeholders.
o Task 3: Create a project plan.
2. Design
o Task 1: Wireframe the website layout.
o Task 2: Create UI/UX designs.
o Task 3: Develop brand assets.
3. Development
o Task 1: Set up hosting environment.
o Task 2: Code the website front-end.
o Task 3: Build the back-end functionality.
4. Testing
o Task 1: Conduct unit testing.
o Task 2: Perform integration testing.
o Task 3: Gather user feedback for revisions.
5. Deployment
o Task 1: Migrate site to production.
o Task 2: Monitor initial site performance.
o Task 3: Resolve post-launch bugs.
Visual Presentation
1. Hierarchy Chart:
o Create a diagram showing the hierarchical breakdown of tasks (e.g., a tree structure).
o Tools: MS Project, Lucidchart, Canva, or manual drawing tools.
2. Tabular Format (Alternative): Use a table like the one below:
Level WBS Code Task
1 1.0 Launch of an E-commerce Website
2 1.1 Project Planning
3 1.1.1 Develop the project charter
3 1.1.2 Identify stakeholders
3 1.1.3 Create a project plan
Evaluation Criteria for 10 Points
1. Completeness: Does the WBS cover all major deliverables and tasks? (4 points)
2. Clarity: Are tasks and deliverables clear and actionable? (2 points)
3. Structure: Is the hierarchy logical and easy to follow? (2 points)
4. Presentation: Is the WBS visually organized or formatted professionally? (2 points)