The Foundation of Project Management

A Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) comprises the heart of the project planning and execution effort. It is more than just an element of the project plan – it is the framework on which the project is built and subsequently executed, controlled, and reported. No realistic project plan is possible without first developing a WBS that is detailed enough to provide meaningful identification of all major project tasks that must be accomplished. When decomposed to greater levels of detail, it reflects the basic agreement between the Project Manager and the performing Task Manager. The performing entity is committed to perform the work within the cost and schedule constraints provided by the extension of the basic WBS. This presentation will examine and discuss a proven process for the development of a meaningful WBS, then review the various ways in which a WBS supports project plan development, project execution, and project control and reporting.

Michael E. Thorn

A Senior Project Manager for Information Systems, Mike Thorn has extensive experience in the related areas of program management, information systems, systems integration, business development, and education and training for organizational transformations in a wide variety of arenas, ranging from the federal government to private enterprise. An adjunct professor in Business Administration, Information Systems, and Project Management for major universities, he has a strong track record in the successful management of life cycle development and implementation of complex management, control, and information systems. Mike has been a finalist for the IIL Kerzner International Project Manager of the Year Award and speaker for the 2007-08 PMI National Congresses. He was also the leader of the effort designated a PMI Distinguished Project Award for 2008.