Project structure plan

Project structure plan: structure and benefits

The project structure plan (PSP) is an indispensable tool in project management for dividing a project into smaller, manageable sections. It ensures that the entire scope of a project is presented transparently and comprehensibly, which enables better planning, resource allocation and control. Learn more about the definition, structure, and benefits of a PSP below.

What is a project structure plan?

The project structure plan, also known as a work breakdown structure (WBS), is a hierarchical model that divides the overall scope of a project into individual work packages. These work packages are small, independent tasks or activities that can be completed by one or more people. The PSP can be displayed both graphically as a tree diagram and in tabular form.

Using the project structure plan

The main goal of a project structure plan is to reduce the complexity of a project by breaking it down into manageable components. This enables the project team to identify the dependencies between tasks, plan the required resources, and define clear responsibilities. A PSP also serves as a basis for cost and time planning as well as risk assessment.

What belongs in a PSP?

• Overall project: The top level forms the entire project.
• Subprojects or phases: The entire project is divided into larger units, such as project phases or sub-projects.
• Work packages: Each phase is further divided into detailed work packages, which include specific tasks or activities.

This division should be logical and project-based to ensure that all tasks are covered and assigned to the goals of the project.

Preparation of a project structure plan: step-by-step

The project structure plan (PSP) is an essential tool in project management for efficiently planning, managing and monitoring the process and individual work steps of a project. The structured approach makes it possible to divide complex projects into smaller, manageable units.

• 1. Project definition and goals 📋: First, the goals and scope of the project must be clearly defined to set the framework for the PSP.
• 2. Division into sub-projects 🔗: The project is then divided into sub-projects or phases, which are further subdivided depending on their complexity.
• 3. Preparation of work packages 🗂: Each phase is divided into individual work packages that focus on specific tasks.
• 4. Allocation of resources 🛠: The necessary resources and responsibilities are defined for each work package.
• 5. Scheduling ⏳: Last but not least, the work packages are scheduled, including the setting of deadlines and buffer times.

All benefits at a glance

A project structure plan (PSP) is an essential tool for efficiently organizing and successfully carrying out projects. It helps project managers both to reduce the complexity of a project and to maintain an overview of all relevant aspects. This has the following advantages, among others:

• Transparency: The PSP provides a clear overview of the entire project and all tasks to be completed.
• Efficient resource planning: Structuring into work packages enables precise planning and distribution of resources.
• Clarify responsibilities: The clear allocation of tasks helps to define responsibilities within the team and to promote collaboration.
• Risk management: By breaking down the work packages in detail, potential risks can be identified and reduced at an early stage.
• Progress monitoring: The PSP serves as a basis for monitoring project progress and enables timely adjustments.

conclusion

A well-prepared project structure plan is a central component of successful project management. The clear division into work packages, the precise allocation of resources and the transparent presentation of project progress ensures that projects can be carried out efficiently and in a targeted manner. The PSP provides the basis for structured planning, management and monitoring to ensure the success of every project.