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Top-Down

Definition

In the top-down method, the total effort of a project is estimated on the basis of empirical values. The individual budgets for sub-projects and work packages are derived from this accordingly, so that the set goals are distributed from the top down, i.e. top-down, to the lower organisational hierarchies.

Advantages of the Top-Down Method

  • Planning is carried out globally, eliminating time-consuming and cost-intensive tasks
  • Detailed planning takes place in the sub-projects and can be refined

Disadvantages of the Top-Down Method

  • Management sometimes has little insight into individual departments
  • Unrealistic target specifications