In the Project Management Institute's (PMI) Body of Knowledge the Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) Dictionary is created as part of project scope Management. It forms part of the scope baseline along with the WBS and the scope statement. Change requests may prompt updates to the WBS and the WBS Dictionary. The WBS and WBS Dictionary are the basis for creating the final Activity List.

What is a WBS Dictionary?

The WBS dictionary provides detailed information about each component in the Work Breakdown Structure (WBS). stakeholdermap.com

The WBS dictionary is part of the Project Management Plan, and with the Work Breakdown Structure and the project scope statement it forms the scope baseline for the project.

What is in a WBS Dictionary?

• detailed description of the work required to deliver the component
• assumptions and constraints
• responsible person or organization
• the milestones
• any dependencies on other deliverables
• resources required
• cost estimates
• quality criteria and acceptance criteria
• references to any technical or design documentation
• any contractual agreements

The dictionary can be created after the work breakdown structure or alongside it, but is more likely to be developed concurrently during planning as the project team iteratively develop the work breakdown structure.

It will be the basis for the completion of the final activity list. The dictionary may be updated to reflect approved change requests that have an impact on the project scope.

This template includes all of the areas you need to cover, with includes useful hints and tips to help you complete each section.