I’m in the planning phase of a development project and need to create a WBS. I can decompose the project into different work packages, that’s easy. But how are the project phases respected?
E.g. I have to develop a unit which consists of 2 components, therewith my first work package is “development of component 1”, my second is “development of component 2” and my third work package is “Integration”.
In the first project phase a concept of each component and the whole unit will be developed. After the first design phase is closed the critical design of each component will be developed.
Do I need two work packages for each component in the WBS, like “preliminary development of component 1” and “critical development of component 1” or is this just one work package “development of component 1”?
You would only need the one work package. The development itself is quite iterative so the WBS item would be tied to schedule components which enable us to plan out the work. Saving Changes...
Depends on how you structure your WBS. If it is deliverable-organized, then phases may not be apparent at the control account or work package level. But if you decide to structure your WBS to be phase-centric, then the phase would be apparent at the top level.
You can use only one work package "Development of Component 1" at the top level. Saving Changes...
Stéphane ParentSelf Employed / Semi-retired| Leader MakerPrince Edward Island, Canada
Even though I've been doing project management in IT for 35 years, like Keith I prefer to do my WBS based on work packages. It is alright to have your work packages in different states in your project schedule. The use of multi-state work packages is prevalent in the PMBOK Guide. Saving Changes...
I understand that you're talking about IT project.
Work packages is an interesting option, going by phase is also an option. I would also look at the structure of the contract, consider matching the payment structure. Saving Changes...
Just think to its application in future. What would be the best option for you? The structure would have an impact on your reports, financial analysis, progress control, etc. Saving Changes...
Anonymous
Thanks to all for your comments. Very helpful. Saving Changes...
Thomas WalentaGlobal Project Economy ExpertHackenheim, Germany
You could also use different WBS approaches (e.g. phase-oriented, product component oriented, resource-oriented) and compare the resulting work packages on the lowest level for completeness. This gives you a means to combine the WPs in your specific project in a way that gives you the best control.
Main purpose of the WBS is communication! Saving Changes...
