Types of Code Files

Most projects have at least two code file structures: one structure representing the project's Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) codes and another representing the Organizational Breakdown Structure (OBS) codes.

Work Breakdown Structure (WBS)

The WBS is a product-oriented code file consisting of hardware, software, services and project-unique tasks that organize and define the product to be produced. In addition, the WBS identifies the scope of work to be accomplished. A WBS code may be an identifiable product, a set of data, or a service.

Note: Creating a standard WBS used across all projects enables cross-project reporting and provides a method for obtaining data from previous projects to help determine trends that can improve your project estimating/bidding process.

Organizational Breakdown Structure (OBS)

An OBS is a functionally oriented structure indicating organizational relationships. The OBS serves as the framework for the assignment of work responsibilities. The organizational structure is progressively detailed downward to the lowest levels of management.

Note: In Cobra, the OBS is typically a field used to identify a control account.

Resource Breakdown Structure (RBS)

Cobra uses the RBS to define the resource roll-up.

In Cobra, the RBS is the parent code of the resource file. Typically, the lowest-level codes in the RBS have calculations defined and are used to add budget, actual costs, and forecasts to your project.

Cost Breakdown Structure (CBS)

The CBS is another term used to describe the RBS.