What is your process for updating MS Project?

[Scott Roberts]

Does anyone out there have a documented process they use for managing project plans using MS Project that they are willing to share?

-How are tasks set up
-How are resources applied
-How are materials and fixed costs accounted for
-Do you use budget functionality
-How are baselines set and updated
-What are the regular updating procedures
-What reports are used to convey status

[Anonymous]

Hi Scott

Follow this link https://it-ebooks.info/ and when you get there simply search on the word Project.

You will see there are a variety of free manuals both Project Methodology and Microsoft Project.

Hope that is helpful, Derek

[Josh Logan]

Scott, there a number of questions contained within the “big” question. I’ll offer what I generally do with regard to a) updating and 2) status reports.

As far as updating the schedule (again, just looking at the simple picture of obtaining “% complete” status), use whatever rhythm the program requires; i.e., weekly, bi-weekly, monthly. First, I use indicators (plenty of information on MPUG about creating formulas) for the most simple status events: late start, late finish, early start, future start, completed. Secondly, I create an Excel extract using basic schedule information; e.g., Unique ID, Task Name, Start, Finish, Duration, % Complete, Program Key Indicators (PKI) as stated previously. “Update”/”Input” columns are added for start/finish/% completed and any notes the PM/CAM/Lead would like to add. Then this spreadsheet is distributed to the appropriate person for updating. Many schedulers with whom I have worked used a similar process.

Schedule views can be created to distribute PDFs, for example, and oftentimes people like to have a copy of the schedule to manipulate for their own needs. “OnePager and “Milestones Professional” are some 3rd party reporting apps.

Updating costs and baselining changes are separate subjects, though a process needs to be used to capture them as well.

[Randy Johns]

Thanks for the book download link Derek. That is very helpful!

[Author]

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