STRATEGIES FOR THE SELECTION OF APPROACHES AND METHODS IN PROJECT WORK BREAKDOWN STRUCTURE

Abstract

Project scope definition is a critical project management process in which project managers identify and delineate the project’s various tasks and activities, thereby determining the nature and extent of the required work. The Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) technique is frequently employed in this process. However, project managers often encounter difficulties in selecting the most suitable WBS methodology from a variety of options. To address this challenge, this article synthesized recommendations from international experts in the field, aiming to enhance understanding of WBS and propose strategies for selecting appropriate WBS approaches and methods for different projects. The synthesis yielded two strategic approaches: firstly, utilizing project characteristics such as project initiation, suitable project types, project manager experience, flexibility, team participation, historical data, alignment with organizational structure, promotion of creativity, and risk to guide the selection of WBS approaches; secondly, employing project focus to determine the most appropriate WBS methods, including activity, time, object, area, specialty, and mixed methods. These strategic guidelines assisted project managers in comprehending and effectively selecting WBS methods, thereby facilitating efficient project planning and management in other areas.