What does an organizational breakdown structure outline?

An organizational breakdown structure (OBS) is a key project management tool that illustrates the hierarchy and distribution of roles and responsibilities within a project team. By breaking down the project into distinct parts, an OBS helps to clarify who is responsible for which tasks, making it easier to assign accountability and ensure that every aspect of the project is covered. This structured approach enables project managers and teams to clearly define job roles, promote effective collaboration, and foster communication about responsibilities.

Using an OBS enhances project organization and management efficiency, as team members can see how their work fits into the larger project framework, and how their responsibilities intersect with those of others. This clarity is vital for successful project execution and helps to alleviate confusion regarding who is tasked with specific duties or decision-making authority.