Abstract: An automated system and method for producing a work breakdown structure for a project, such as a software development project. The resulting work breakdown structure provides a common framework for communicating cost, scope and schedule information relating to the project. The system includes a function point component list which identifies the files and tables which represent the product to be developed for the project or projects. The function point component list also contains information about the elementary transactions by which each file or table is modified or maintained. The system further includes a work breakdown structure template file, in which a list of identifiable tasks and resources required to accomplish a project is maintained. Using the function point component list and the work breakdown structure template file, the system generates an electronic work breakdown structure output file in which information about the total work required to accomplish the objectives of a project is stored.