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Work Package

Work Package (WP)

EVM Terms Reviewed by forProject Technology - updated Sep 2026
Quick definition: A Work Package (WP) is a natural subdivision of the tasks within a Control Account, and the point at which work is planned, progress is measured, and earned value is computed.

A Work Package represents a definable unit of work performed at whatever level is normal for program management. It might be a design job, a build-to-package, a shop order, or another task assignable to a single organizational element. Each one has clear start and completion dates and, where applicable, interim milestones marking physical progress. A single Earned Value Method is assigned to each Work Package, which determines how its Budgeted Cost for Work Performed (BCWP) is calculated — so how a Work Package is defined and scoped directly governs how its progress can be measured.

What this means for you

The Work Package is where earned value actually gets measured day to day, making it the foundation that all higher-level cost and schedule performance rolls up from. If Work Packages aren't well defined and distinct from one another, the earned value numbers built on top of them won't be reliable either.

Also known as
N/A
Used in
Control Account structuring; Earned Value Method application

FAQ

What can a Work Package actually be, in practice?
It varies by company — it might be a design job, a shop order, a purchase order, or any other definable task at the level where control is normally exercised.
Can a Work Package span multiple organizations?
No. It must be assignable to a single organizational element.
Definition maintained by forProject Technology.
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