Hierarchical Charts
Hierarchical charts are data representation techniques that use a top-down tree structure to decompose and organize information, such as the WBS, OBS, and RBS.
Explanation
Hierarchical charts present information in a top-down tree structure where each level provides increasing detail. In project management, the most important hierarchical charts are the Work Breakdown Structure (WBS), which decomposes project scope into manageable deliverables; the Organizational Breakdown Structure (OBS), which maps work packages to organizational units; and the Resource Breakdown Structure (RBS), which categorizes resources by type and function.
The Risk Breakdown Structure is another hierarchical chart that categorizes identified risks by source or area of impact. Each of these charts serves a specific purpose but follows the same principle of decomposition, breaking complex wholes into smaller, more manageable parts.
Hierarchical charts are fundamental to project planning because they provide a comprehensive view of the project from top-level deliverables down to individual work packages. They ensure nothing is overlooked and provide a framework for estimation, assignment, and tracking.
Key Points
- •Use top-down tree structure to decompose information
- •Key types: WBS, OBS, RBS, and Risk Breakdown Structure
- •Follow the principle of decomposition from general to specific
- •Fundamental to ensuring completeness in project planning
Exam Tip
The WBS is the most important hierarchical chart. Remember it decomposes scope (deliverables), not activities. The lowest level of the WBS is the work package.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Topics
Matrix Diagrams
Matrix diagrams are a data representation technique that uses a grid format to show relationships between two or more groups of factors, commonly used for responsibility assignments and prioritization.
Mind Mapping
Mind mapping is a visual technique that organizes information around a central concept, using branches to represent related ideas and sub-topics in a hierarchical, radial structure.
Data Representation Techniques
Data representation techniques are visual methods for displaying project information in formats such as charts, graphs, diagrams, and matrices to facilitate understanding and decision-making.
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