What is the main purpose of developing an Organizational Breakdown Structure (OBS)?

The primary purpose of developing an Organizational Breakdown Structure (OBS) is to identify the people and organizations needed to complete the project. An OBS visually represents the project's organizational framework, outlining the roles and responsibilities of various team members and organizations involved. It helps clarify who is accountable for different aspects of the project, facilitating better communication and coordination among team members and stakeholders.

By clearly defining the organizational components, the OBS supports effective resource allocation and ensures that all necessary individuals and teams are engaged throughout the project lifecycle. This ultimately enhances project execution and management, allowing for improved oversight and alignment with project objectives.

While determining project deliverables, creating scheduling timelines, and outlining project risks are also essential elements of effective project management, they are not the primary focus of the OBS. The OBS is specifically geared towards understanding the organizational structure rather than the deliverables, timelines, or risks associated with the project.