Integration of WBS and Organizational Breakdown Structure

Correct Answer: Create a responsibility assignment matrix at each intersection point of WBS and OBS

A responsibility assignment matrix (RAM) at WBS-OBS intersection points is the most effective approach for resource allocation because: Strengths of this approach: - Creates clear accountability at each work package level - Integrates both organizational and work breakdown perspectives - Provides visibility of resource assignments across the entire project - Enables efficient tracking and control of resources - Minimizes resource conflicts and overlaps Why other options are inadequate: Using only OBS for resource assignment is too limiting and fails to consider work package requirements and dependencies. Developing departmental resource plans first and then cascading them down creates potential bottlenecks and may not align with work package needs. A cross-functional resource pool system, while flexible, lacks the structured accountability and clear delineation of responsibilities that a RAM provides at intersection points.

Correct Answer: A control account with specific work package responsibilities

When a Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) and Organizational Breakdown Structure (OBS) are integrated in a project management matrix, their intersection points represent control accounts with specific work package responsibilities. This is a fundamental concept in project management. A control account is a management control point where scope, budget, actual cost, and schedule are integrated and compared to earned value for performance measurement. The intersection represents where responsibility for specific work packages is assigned to organizational units. The other answers are incorrect because: - A resource allocation matrix is a different tool used for showing how resources are distributed across project activities - A coordination point for communication channels is managed through communication plans and stakeholder registers - Milestone checkpoints are tracking points in the project schedule and are not related to the WBS-OBS intersection points

Correct Answer: It establishes clear cost responsibility at specific control points in the project.

The primary role of WBS-OBS integration in project cost control and reporting is establishing clear cost responsibility at specific control points in the project. This is the most accurate answer because the integration of Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) and Organizational Breakdown Structure (OBS) creates intersection points known as Control Accounts or Cost Account Points. These points define exactly who is responsible for managing specific costs in the project. The other answers have flaws: Detailed tracking of all expenses through a matrix structure is too broad and misses the key point of responsibility assignment. Monitoring resource allocation and budget variances in real-time is more related to project monitoring and control systems, not specifically WBS-OBS integration. Defining hierarchical structure of cost centers is only part of OBS and doesn't capture the integration aspect with WBS for responsibility assignment.