This document provides an overview of a work breakdown structure (WBS) which is a key project management tool. A WBS breaks a project down into hierarchical levels including: Level 1 which identifies the overall project, Level 2 which lists the major deliverables, Level 3 which identifies sub-components of the deliverables, and Level 4 which defines specific work packages that comprise the lowest level tasks. Together these levels define all critical elements of a project and how they relate to the final output or goal.

1. A QUICK GUIDE
TO A WORK
BREAKDOWN
STRUCTURE
Miro Medvedec

2. INTRODUCTION
An experienced professional in the fields of project
management, technical training, and equipment sales, Miro
Medvedec has worked for several manufacturing
corporations, including DME Company in Madison Heights,
Michigan. In this role, Miro Medvedec managed the entire
customer base of DME in Ohio and provided sales and
project management support to the team.
An important concept in project management is called the
work breakdown structure. A work breakdown structure
(WBS) is essentially the map of the project that defines all
the critical elements in a hierarchical framework and
establishes the relationships to the result or output. The
WBS is divided into several levels.
Level 1 - Project
The WBS starts with identifying the completed project or
desired outcome. A WBS has one intended project, and all
the work that follows will contribute to the completion of
this output.

3. WORK BREAKDOWN
STRUCTURE
Level 2 - Deliverable
The second level of the WBS comprises a partial list of deliverables
required for the project. The deliverables can be the essential parts
or components that make up a product or the list of features of a
website application.
Level 3 - Sub-deliverable
The sub-deliverable represents the subcomponent of a deliverable.
For example, an internal memory unit is a sub-deliverable of a
microprocessor, which, incidentally, is a deliverable of creating a
personal computer. Some sub-deliverables require additional sub-
deliverables. In this particular example, an internal memory unit
has two lower sub-deliverables including read-only memory (ROM)
and random access memory (RAM).
Level 4 - Work Package
The work package is the lowest level of the WBS. The work
packages are short-duration tasks made up of start and end
points, cost structure, and a list of technical requirements. A
manager is assigned to oversee each work package and to make
sure it adheres to the deadline, budget, and technical
specifications.