DEVELOP WORK BREAKDOWN

In the video, “Develop Work Breakdown Structure (WBS)” by DCOptima the Work
Breakdown Structure (WBS) is the foundation of every project. It defines in detail all the
work necessary to achieve a project’s objectives of a WBS at the level one. For example, it
indicates the project name and is reflected the objective of the project. At the level two, a
project objectives can be decomposed into several major deliverable. Therefore, we need to
accomplish all the deliverables within the deliverables are written at the level three. A
deliverable as an element of WBS can be decomposed further up to several chart level. At the
lowest level of elements in WBS, hierarchical structure are called work packages for the
software development project. Mostly, the WBS stopped at level four, however for a large
construction project the WBS can be developed up to twelve level.

In the video also explained about approaches in developing WBS. There are
component, phasing, functional-use, geographical area and many others. Firstly, components
approach is for physical output project such as airplane, construction and considered as the
best approach. Meanwhile phasing approach is appropriate for very large construction project
or can be used as well as software development project. Next,Functional-use approach is
suitable for constructing a process manufacturing like petrol chemical plant. Lastly, the
geographical area approach is good for a project in a large area coverage. But of course, there
are many other approaches including combination of them in developing WBS

In addition, to develop WBS is by having Brainstorming Technique using sticky

notes. The things that we need are flip chart paper, sticky notes and marker. To begin with,
we need to put the flip chart paper on the wall. Next, do the brainstorming with your team
about the project and each of the team need to write deliverable work package on the sticky
note. Last but not least, put in on the flip chart paper. Then, have a look and rearrange the
structure.

In WBS, we also need to include important major deliverable which is Project

Management. Project Management has to be existed in every WBS because it represents the
work to be done and managing all the processes of the elements in the project WBS.
Definitely, WBS is a necessary project management tools since it provides the basics
foundation for other activities. For instance, estimating costs, developing schedule,
identifying resources and many more. The WBS represent 100% of the deliverable to be done
in achieving project objectives. In fact, there are no other works to be done outside the WBS
to achieve project objectives. In creating WBS, we are answering ‘what’ questions and
sometimes ‘how; questions. This show that WBS is very important in every project.

In conclusion, to create WBS, do not do the WBS creation alone. Therefore, you need
to involve your core team in this process because there are many advantages by having your
core team in creating WBS. In short, do not using scheduling software immediately, because
it could limit the creativity thinking. Using sticky notes is much better because it can
stimulate the collaboration process.