In project management, what is the primary purpose of a work breakdown structure (WBS)?

The primary purpose of a work breakdown structure (WBS) is to outline project tasks and deliverables. A WBS is a hierarchical decomposition of a project into smaller, more manageable components, which allows project managers and team members to clarify the scope of the project clearly. By breaking the project down into these manageable sections, the team can better understand the individual tasks necessary to complete the overall project, making it easier to assign responsibilities, estimate time and resources required, and identify deliverables at each level. This clear structure enhances communication and helps ensure that all aspects of the project are accounted for and executed effectively, fostering successful project execution and management.