Question 1

What is a WBS (work breakdown structure)?

Accepted Answer

A WBS (Work Breakdown Structure) breaks a project down into a hierarchy of deliverables and tasks, so you can list everything that needs to be done without gaps. It is the foundation of project planning. A WBS can be drawn as a tree diagram or as a table; this tool uses the table (outline) format that is most common in practice.

Question 2

Do I need to type WBS numbers myself?

Accepted Answer

No. WBS numbers (1, 1.1, 1.1.1...) are derived automatically from the order and hierarchy of the rows. When you add, move, indent or outdent rows, the numbering updates automatically.

Question 3

How do I change the hierarchy (indent)?

Accepted Answer

While editing a task name, press Tab to indent one level and Shift+Tab to outdent. Press Enter to add a row below. You can also use the buttons at the right edge of each row to indent, reorder, and add child tasks.

Question 4

Can I show columns such as assignee and start/end dates?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Open the display settings to toggle columns for WBS numbers, assignees, start/end dates, days, progress, and notes. The dates and progress of parent rows are rolled up automatically from their child tasks.

Question 5

Can I turn my WBS into a Gantt chart?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Click the Open in Gantt Chart button to hand your WBS over to the Gantt chart tool. The hierarchy is carried over as tasks and groups, and you can then adjust the schedule by dragging bars. Existing Gantt chart data is kept, and the WBS is added as a new chart.

Question 6

Can I import from text or export to Excel?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Import Outline converts a pasted, indented text outline into a WBS. Export CSV downloads the table with WBS numbers, tasks, assignees, dates and progress as a CSV file that opens directly in Excel.

Question 7

How can I save the chart as an image?

Accepted Answer

Click the "Download Image" button below the preview area to download your chart in PNG/JPEG/SVG format with your chosen quality. If you want to change the aspect ratio, drag the handle at the bottom-right corner of the preview frame to adjust it.

Question 8

Is there an auto-save feature?

Accepted Answer

Yes, there is. Your chart data is saved automatically to your browser's local storage. When you reload the page, or close and reopen your browser, you can restore the saved data. You can also revert to the default data by pressing the reset button at the top-right of the data input area. Local storage data is saved only in your browser and is not shared with other users. If local storage is disabled in your browser settings, the auto-save feature will not work. Clearing your browser cache will also delete the saved data.

Question 9

How do I save my data temporarily?

Accepted Answer

Click the "Save & Publish Chart" button below the preview area to temporarily save your chart. You can re-edit it later using the URL and password issued when you saved it. You can also publish the chart publicly via URL.

Question 10

How do I load saved data?

Accepted Answer

You can load a chart using the "Resume from Saved Data" button. When loading, enter the URL and password issued when you saved it.

WBS #	Task	Assignee
1
1.1
1.2
2
2.1
2.1.1
2.1.2
2.2
3
3.1
3.2

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Free WBS Builder

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q.What is a WBS (work breakdown structure)?

Q.Do I need to type WBS numbers myself?

Q.How do I change the hierarchy (indent)?

Q.Can I show columns such as assignee and start/end dates?

Q.Can I turn my WBS into a Gantt chart?

Q.Can I import from text or export to Excel?

Q.How can I save the chart as an image?

Q.Is there an auto-save feature?

Q.How do I save my data temporarily?

Q.How do I load saved data?