LESSON 3-1: Building a Work Breakdown Structure

This lesson describes:
• work breakdown structure or WBS
• how to create work breakdown structure or WBS
• how to add a WBS node

[MUSIC PLAYING]

1. work breakdown structure or WBS
The work breakdown structure or WBS is the foundation of the project. It organizes the project into logical groups for planning and control. Each element represents a deliverable, such as a product or service, that is produced during and by the project. The project is the root node of the WBS and branches out to children and siblings.

2. Create WBS
This hierarchical structure enables you to roll up values. For example, viewing costs for all activities in a project. Now let's create a work breakdown structure. Begin by opening a new project in this schedule app. The schedule does not yet have any activities. The WBS is created on the WBS page. 

3. Add a WBS node
The project represents the top node of the WBS. The WBS for this project is already partially built. To add a WBS node, click the plus sign. Type code and name for the node directly in the grid columns, or use the fields in the general detail window.
Also, type a description of the node if you wish. The user creating the WBS node is manager by default. But you can select another user if you choose. Use the context menu to indent child nodes. You can also use the context menu to copy and paste nodes to build your WBS more quickly.