Work Breakdown Structure (WBS)
The Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) is an essential planning technique predominantly used in projects that adhere to a predictive life cycle. It serves as a hierarchical decomposition of the entire scope of work that the project team needs to execute to meet the project objectives and deliver the required outcomes.
Hierarchical Structure
In its structure, the WBS is hierarchical, starting with the highest level representing the project’s end objective or product. It is then subdivided into smaller, more manageable pieces, often categorized by project phases and then further into components or deliverables within those phases. This hierarchical breakdown allows for a clearer visualization of the project scope and what it entails in terms of work and responsibilities.
Basis for Schedule and Planning
Once the WBS is constructed, it becomes the foundation for further planning activities, such as scheduling. The work packages in the WBS are sequenced, and estimates, priorities, dependencies, and constraints are mapped to each, giving a detailed insight into the path the project must take to reach completion.
Iterative Revision in Predictive Life Cycles
In the context of a predictive life cycle, the WBS is often created during the initial planning stage and is not static; it is subject to periodic revisions. These revisions typically happen at predefined points in the project life cycle, such as phase gates or milestones, where the project’s progress and alignment with objectives are assessed.
Role of Business Analysis in WBS
From a business analysis perspective, the business analyst is usually accountable for those components of the WBS that pertain specifically to business analysis tasks. This involves ensuring that the work packages, activities, and deliverables associated with business analysis are accurately defined, sequenced, and estimated. The business analyst may collaborate with the project manager and other stakeholders to integrate these tasks seamlessly into the overall project WBS, ensuring alignment with project objectives and deliverables.
The WBS serves as an essential tool for business analysts to understand the scope of their responsibilities clearly within the broader project landscape. It aids in resource allocation, estimation, and scheduling, specific to business analysis functions, thus enabling more effective planning and execution.