Reply To: Using MS Project as an Estimating Tool

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Hi Paul.

I suspect the common thought is that MSP “is to track what you plan”.  After all, it is a project management software. 

I would agree that one purpose of MSP is to track what you plan, but I also believe MSP can be used to actually build your estimate.  I’ve actually done this in the past.

I’m a surprised how resistive estimators are to consider using it and also how unreceptive the project management community is to the idea also.

I will be pushing the concept further within our organization but I must admit purchasing a canned package estimating tool off the shelf has an attraction to it when compared to the challenge I seem to be facing in changing people’s paradigms.