Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) - Assignment

A project manager is developing the Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) for a large infrastructure project. Which of the following best describes the primary purpose of the WBS?

• To assign roles and responsibilities to team members

• To establish cost baselines for each activity

• To decompose the project scope into manageable work packages

• To identify risks and response strategies

Answer explanation

The WBS is used to break down the total scope of the project into smaller, manageable components known as work packages. This allows for better planning, tracking, and assignment of tasks.

Which principle ensures that no work in the project is omitted and there is no overlap between work packages in the WBS?

• RACI Matrix

• PDCA Cycle

• MECE Principle

• Monte Carlo Simulation

Answer explanation

The MECE Principle (Mutually Exclusive, Collectively Exhaustive) ensures that all work is accounted for (collectively exhaustive) and no overlap exists (mutually exclusive) between components of the WBS.

During a WBS review, a stakeholder notes that several tasks appear to be too broad to effectively estimate time and cost. Which WBS characteristic is most likely being violated?

• Definable

• Estimable

• Independent

• Measurable

Answer explanation

The "Estimable" characteristic of the WBS ensures that each work package is detailed enough to accurately estimate time, cost, and resources. Broad tasks violate this characteristic.

In the WBS for a housing project, “Install electrical systems” and “Install plumbing systems” are listed under the same work package. What issue might this present?

• Lack of MECE compliance

• Redundant documentation

• Poor sequencing of the project

• Improper use of dashboards

Answer explanation

Grouping unrelated tasks like electrical and plumbing under one work package may result in an overlap or unclear scope, which violates the MECE principle that requires tasks to be mutually exclusive.

Which of the following best explains why a well-defined WBS is critical for managing stakeholder expectations?

• It replaces the need for a scope statement.

• It allows stakeholders to approve the risk register.

• It visually demonstrates the project schedule.

• It clearly communicates the scope and deliverables.

Answer explanation

A well-defined WBS provides transparency and clarity regarding what is included and excluded from the project scope, which helps align and manage stakeholder expectations.

A construction team is reviewing a three-level WBS for a new airport terminal. The team notes that each phase includes defined work packages like “Install HVAC” and “Lay concrete slab.” What benefit does this provide the team?

• Supports iterative prototyping

• Enables agile transformation

• Enhances clarity and assignment of responsibilities

• Replaces the need for a communication plan

Answer explanation

By detailing work into clear and manageable work packages, the team can assign responsibilities more effectively and ensure everyone understands their tasks.