Guide to Understanding Work Package in Scope Baseline for PMP
A Work Package is a key concept in the Project Scope Management knowledge area as outlined in PMBOK Guide Seventh Edition. It is the lowest and most detailed level of the Work Breakdown Structure (WBS).
Why is it Important?: A work package provides the basis for estimating costs, setting a schedule, assigning resources and risk management. This level of detail aids in monitoring and controlling the project.
What is it?: A work package is essentially a task or a set of tasks that can be assigned to an individual or a team. It is large enough to manage and track progress and small enough to assign to a single owner.
How it Works?: Each work package within a WBS represents a series of tasks that achieves a particular milestone in the project. It provides clear assignments to team members and forms the link between the scope of work and the schedule and cost elements.
Exam Tips: Answering Questions on Work Package: When answering questions about work package on the exam, remember the following:
1. It is the lowest level of the WBS.
2. It is the basis for estimating costs, setting a schedule, assigning resources and risk management.
3. It can be managed and tracked effectively.
4. Questions often pose real-world scenarios where you have to apply your knowledge of how a work package functions in practice. Practice questions and case studies to familiarize yourself with this approach.
Understanding the Work Package concept is fundamental to project scope management and achieving success in PMP.