Final answer:
The Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) is an output of the Scope Management knowledge area in project management. It is used to break down project deliverables into smaller parts, facilitating planning, scheduling, cost control, and clear communication with stakeholders.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) is a key project management tool and an output of the Scope Management knowledge area. The purpose of the WBS is to divide the project's deliverables and work into smaller, more manageable parts. When creating a WBS, the project team breaks down the scope of the work into multiple levels, ultimately resulting in specific tasks that can be assigned and tracked.
According to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK), which is published by the Project Management Institute (PMI), the WBS is an essential part of the project scope management process. This process is focused on ensuring that the project includes all the work required, and only the work required, to complete the project successfully. Creating a WBS helps project managers and teams to avoid scope creep, provide a clear basis for planning and scheduling, establish a structure for controlling costs, and communicate project details with stakeholders.