Managing a Project Schedule - Running head: MANAGING A...

Running head: MANAGING A PROJECT SCHEDULE 1
Managing a Project Schedule
CPMGT/300
May 29, 2017

MANAGING A PROJECT SCHEDULE 2
Managing a Project Schedule
When heading a project, a manager must look at an overall picture and plan each step and
task to ensure the completion of the project is efficient and successful. By doing this they will
need to create a work breakdown structure (WBS). The WBS is important because it ensures that
the project scope is delivered on time within the budget. There are differences from a list of
project requirements from the WBS. If done correctly the WBS can contribute to the success of a
project. Within the project the PM must ensure that all resources are leveled throughout the
project. If the PM wants to fast track the project they will need to understand the pros and cons
that come with this method.
Importance of a WBS
When establishing a plan a project manager will group work together or set apart tasks to
be completed. This process can be shown in a Work Breakdown Structure, or WBS. “…a WBS
itemizes all those tasks that must be done to complete the project—to produce its deliverables.
Those tasks are laid out in a hierarchy of larger jobs to get done, the smaller tasks needed to do
those larger jobs, and so on in more and more detail until one gets to the most detailed tasks
needed.” (Cobb, 2012, "THE WORK BREAKDOWN STRUCTURE AND ITS PROJECT
ROLE"). Many would read this and assume we are discussing creating a list of tasks. Though
this is true, a work breakdown structure is far more developed and professional with detailed
timeline and work scope for all tasks.
Differences of Project Requirements from a WBS
When a list of items is thought about, it’s just that, a list. A list itemizes things that need
to be done or things that need to be gotten, like a grocery list or a chores list. A company can
utilize a list and itemize all of the project’s requirements, whereas a work breakdown structure
can itemize and elaborate on specifics. “Laying out the scope of project tasks that need to be