Create WBS

September 30, 2025
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What is Create WBS?

Create WBS is a project management process that involves breaking down the total scope of work into smaller, more manageable components. WBS stands for Work Breakdown Structure. This process is part of scope management and helps define and organize the project’s deliverables and work packages in a hierarchical structure. The Project Manager typically carries out this activity after defining and approving the project scope.

The primary purpose of this process is to provide a clear and detailed view of what needs to be done to complete the project. By structuring work into smaller pieces, project teams can assign responsibilities, estimate costs and durations, and monitor progress more effectively. A well-developed WBS supports better communication, reduces ambiguity, and sets the foundation for planning and control throughout the project lifecycle.

Key Points

  • The project manager uses the Scope Management knowledge area to guide the Create WBS process within the Planning Process Group.
  • The WBS typically uses a deliverable-oriented format, organizing work based on project outputs.
  • Each descending level in the WBS represents increasingly detailed definitions of the project work.
  • The project manager uses the lowest-level work packages to estimate, schedule, and assign resources.
  • The WBS Dictionary often accompanies the WBS to provide detailed descriptions of each element.
  • Create WBS improves clarity and control over project tasks and deliverables.
  • This process benefits all project sizes and types and adapts to suit various industries.

Related Terms

  • The Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) is the output of the Create WBS process, providing a visual representation of the project’s work.
  • The Scope Statement is a key input to the process, helping to define what work is included or excluded from the project.
  • The WBS Dictionary supports the WBS by providing a detailed description of each component.
  • The Decomposition technique is used during this process to break down high-level deliverables into smaller work packages.
  • The Project Scope Management Plan outlines how the project team will define, develop, and control the scope, including the approach to building the Work Breakdown Structure (WBS).

Create WBS: Example

A construction company starts a new residential housing project. To manage the work, the project manager uses Create WBS to divide the project into major deliverables, including site preparation, foundation, framing, roofing, plumbing, and electrical work. The project manager then breaks down each of these deliverables into smaller work packages, such as pouring concrete, installing pipes, and wiring outlets. This structure helps the team understand their roles, estimate resources, and track progress effectively.

Create WBS: Best Practices

  • Involve team members and stakeholders to ensure the structure reflects all required work.
  • Focus on deliverables rather than individual activities to maintain a results-oriented WBS.
  • Use consistent levels of detail to promote clarity and avoid confusion.
  • Keep the WBS flexible but controlled through formal change management.
  • Maintain alignment between the WBS and the project scope, ensuring the project team overlooks nothing and adds nothing unnecessarily.

Additional Resources

Create WBS - A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK Guide)     Create WBS - Practice Standard for Work Breakdown Structures

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