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Example of a product breakdown structure of a computer.

In project management, a product breakdown structure (PBS) is an exhaustive, hierarchical tree structure of components that make up an item, arranged in whole-part relationship.

A PBS can help clarify what is to be delivered by the project and can help build a work breakdown structure.

The PRINCE2 project management method mandates the use of product based planning, part of which is developing a product breakdown structure.

[edit] Example

PBS of a computer (see image on right):

• Main unit
  • Housing
  • Motherboard
    • CPU
    • RAM chips
    • ...
  • FDD
  • HDD
  • Video card
  • Sound card
  • Network card
  • LPT port card
• Monitor
  • CRT
  • Housing
  • Electronic components
• Mouse
  • Body
  • Marble
  • Cable
• Keyboard
  • ...

[edit] See also

• list of project management topics
• product management
• production, costs, and pricing
• product (business)
• project management
• product (project management)
• Work breakdown structure