Abstract

Finding expert advice on all the subjects a government manager encounters during a normal day is challenging at best. Finding relevant information that is readily accessible and useful has been unheard of—until now. The Government Manager’s Essential Library is a series of easy-to-use, subject-specific guides on issues that every government manager faces. When you’re dealing with mission-essential duties, you need information you can trust from experts who speak your language. You need complete answers written so that you understand and can act on the information. You need The Government Manager’s Essential Library. Filled with helpful tips and practical guidelines, each book contains a wealth of information on a particular subject that is geared specifically for you as a government manager. Together the volumes make a truly essential library for every government manager. The Government Manager’s Guide to the Work Breakdown Structure The work breakdown structure (WBS) is a cornerstone of managing any project. Every government manager should understand how to construct a WBS in the project or program lifecycle. This quick reference presents the fundamental WBS principles, pragmatic steps for the government manager to follow in developing a project WBS, and a checklist for the project manager to use in reviewing a WBS. In addition, DOD recommendations for avoiding pitfalls in constructing a WBS are highlighted. Contents: Introduction to the Work Breakdown Structure • Work Breakdown Structure Fundamentals • WBS Details • Use of the WBS in Managing Government Projects • Lifecycle Planning: Programs and Phases • WBS Principles, Steps, and Checklist • Acronyms and Abbreviations About the Author Gregory T. Haugan, PhD, PMP, is vice president of GLH Incorporated, which specializes in project management consulting and training. He has more than 40 years of experience as a government sector official and a private sector consultant in the planning, scheduling, management, and operation of projects of all sizes and in the development and implementation of project management and information systems.