WBS, Network Diagrams, Critical Path and Leadership

Introduction

In any project, the successful completion of tasks depends on the ability of the project handlers to break the tasks into manageable chunks and assigning responsibilities accordingly (Jones, 2008). Traditionally, some methods have been used to create relationship among functions. These include the Work Breakdown Structure (WBS), transformative leadership, network diagrams, and critical path approach.

Work Breakdown Structure (WBS)

This is a project management tool involves breaking tasks into manageable sections. This approach seeks to create deliverables that are then assigned team members to ensure efficient delivery (Baudin, Bonnal, Nicquevert, & Ruiz, 2013). The WBS is typically used to create precise scopes and make the tasks understandable to the project team.

Network Diagram

This is an approach used in project management where tasks are represented graphically. A typical network diagram has boxes or nodes that represent tasks while the relationships between functions are represented by the lines joining the boxes or nodes (Jones, 2008). Project managers use project diagrams to plan, assign and estimate the time required for the completion of tasks.

Critical Path

The critical path concept is used to identify the critical tasks of a given project. The identification of essential paths enables project managers to prioritize tasks that cannot be compromised if the project is to remain on course according to plans (Jones, 2008).

Transformative leadership

Transformational leadership is a leadership approach that is often used by project managers to drive change and lead teams through innovative ideas. Transformative leaders encourage people to work holistically (Baudin, Bonnal, Nicquevert, & Ruiz, 2013). Transformative leaders tend to promote people working on different tasks to accomplish together holistically, and this ensures harmony in the final project deliverables.

Conclusion

The delivery of projects depends on the ability to break down the tasks into manageable and easily understandable deliverables. Project managers use approaches such as Work Breakdown Structure (WBS), transformative leadership, network diagrams, and critical path approach.

References

Baudin, M., Bonnal, P., Nicquevert, B., & Ruiz, J. (2013). An enhanced planning and scheduling approach suited to the requirements of collaborative project management. The Journal of Modern Project Management . 1(2).

Jones, C. (2008). Moving from the WBS to a critical path schedule. Paper presented at PMI® Global Congress 2008—North America, Denver, CO. Newtown Square, PA: Project Management Institute.