This document provides a framework for organizing project tasks into five stages: initiation, planning, execution, control, and closure. It outlines the purpose of breaking down a project into manageable tasks, estimating time, assigning responsibilities, and determining costs. The project work breakdown structure template is then provided to catalog each task by stage, along with time estimates, responsibilities, and associated costs.

1. Project Work Breakdown Structure
Purpose
The purpose of this tool is to provide guidance with breaking down the project into
manageable components called tasks. For each Task, estimate how long the activity will take
to complete; document which resources will be responsible for doing the work; and determine
the costs involved.
Scope
This tool will provide a framework for organizing tasks into the 5 project stages:
1. INITIATION – involves all pre-project activities such as getting approval.
2. PLANNING – developing Project Charter, and lining up required resources.
3. EXECUTION – working through each task to achieve agreed deliverables.
4. CONTROL – ensuing requirements are being met as the project progresses.
5. CLOSURE – completing Post-Project Evaluation to document lessons learned.
Project Information
Project Title: Date:
Project Manager: Project Sponsor:

2. Project Work Breakdown Structure
Stage Task Time (hours) Responsibility Costs
1.0 Initiation
1.1 Project Request 2 Project Sponsor
1.2 Project Approval .5 Steering Committee
2.0 Planning
2.1 Project Charter 2 Project Manager

3. 3.0 Execution

4. 4.0 Control
5.0 Closure
5.1 Post-Project Evaluation 4 Project Team

5. Totals