Book excerpt: The Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) serves as a guide for defining work as it relates to a specific project's objectives. This book supplies project managers and team members with direction for the preliminary development and the implementation of the WBS. Consistent with A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK® Guide)-Sixth Edition, the WBS Practice Standard presents a standard application of the WBS as a project management tool. Throughout the book, the reader will learn what characteristics constitute a high-quality WBS and discover the substantial benefits of using the WBS in every-day, real-life situations.