Lecture 9 - Software Project WBS Flashcards
What is a Work Breakdown Structure (WBS)?
Hierarchical description of all the work that must be done to meet the needs of the client
What can a WBS be represented as? (2)
- Tree structure
- Indented list
TF: A WBS is based on the tasks needed to create project deliverables
False. Based on Project deliverables
TF: WBS is built from the top down
True
In WBS, hierarchy partitions development activities into separate parts so that…
requirements and work activities can be assigned to different groups and different individuals
When is a WBS developed?
Early in the project, once requirements and scope have been defined
What does WBS become for the project?
Becomes a hub of information for the project
The WBS is the primary tool for…
verifying and controlling the project’s scope
What ties back to the WBS? (5)
- Risk
- Activities
- Costs
- Quality attributes
- Procurement decisions
What are the 2 Fundamental WBS Structures?
- Deliverables-based structure
- Process / phase-based structure
What does the Deliverables-based structure in WBS define?
Breaks down project into tangible components that are then divided into deliverables and work packages
What structure in WBS defines the project scope of work in terms of process steps that need to be taken to deliver each project deliverable?
Process/phase-based structure
What structure in WBS can also identify different work disciplines that are involved to work on various project deliverables?
Process/phase-based structure
What is the smallest element in a WBS?
Work packages
If you can’t assign a single owner, or you need to have additional visibility into the progress of the task in WBS, what should you do?
Break it down more
Each level of the WBS is… (2)
- Mutually exclusive (distinct and independent from the others)
- Cumulatively exhaustive (ensures no aspect is forgotten)
What are the tools used for defining activities for a WBS? (3)
- Decomposition
- Meetings
- Expert judgment
What is decomposition when defining activities for a WBS?
Practice of breaking down deliverables (product features) into progressively smaller pieces
During the decomposition of deliverables for a WBS, when do we stop breaking down the structure?
When the deliverables are small enough to be considered work packages
What is Expert judgment when defining activities for a WBS?
Using expert judgment from external sources (industry specialists) or internal sources (team, specialist, project manager) to assist in defining project activities
What is Meetings when defining activities for a WBS?
Holding meetings to get the information required to define project’s activities
What are the initial planning activities? (2)
- Develop a Work Breakdown Structure (WBS)
- Develop work packages for the tasks in the WBS
What are the 5 Activities Process?
- Activity list
- Activity attributes
- Milestone list
- PM plan updates
- Change requests
What is the Activity List?
Table that links an activity to the work package in WBS and briefly describes work required for it