Related: Understanding the Project Management Processes and Phases What are the benefits of using a WBS? This can increase productivity and help teams track their success. An effective work breakdown structure provides an overview of a project by stating the overall goal and breaking large tasks into smaller or more manageable deliverables. Ī project manager may use a WBS to manage, estimate, coordinate and monitor the status of a project. Project managers can also use a WBS to assign different tasks and phases of the project life cycle to each team member. It itemizes unique tasks, milestones and key elements of a project by organizing them in a hierarchical structure to illustrate which items need to be completed first. A work breakdown structure provides the foundation and guidelines for a successful project.