Introduction to Microsoft Project

Overview

• This is the first video in a series on using Microsoft Project for project management.
• The opening screen features different templates; for beginners, it's recommended to open a blank project file.

Navigating the Interface

• The interface resembles Excel with rows and columns.
• Tabs across the top include:
  • File: Save, print, and set up options.
  • Tasks: Manage activities or tasks.
  • Resources: Add resources and assign responsibilities.
  • Report: Generate different reports and filter data.
  • Project: Global project settings like start dates and baselines.
  • View: Organize and filter information displayed on Gantt charts.
  • Team: Collaboration features for team projects.
  • Format: Customize the display of project elements.

Project Setup

• To set up a project start date, navigate to the Project tab and select the desired start date.
• Activities can be manually scheduled, but it's typically advised to use auto-scheduling for efficiency.

Entering Tasks

• Enter tasks directly into the table; Microsoft Project defaults to a one-day duration if not specified.
• Task durations can be indicated as numbers followed by:
  • d for days
  • h for hours
  • m for minutes
  • mo for months
  • w for weeks
• Use 5eD to include weekend days in calculations.

Structuring Tasks

• Highlight tasks and indent them to create a work breakdown structure (WBS).
• Link tasks by setting predecessors to maintain proper sequencing.
• Tasks can be linked using the link icon in the Tasks tab.

Milestones and Critical Path

• To create a milestone, set an activity with zero duration. This will display as a diamond shape.
• Display critical path tasks in red through the Format tab to identify the longest path in project completion.
• Ensure all tasks are correctly linked to maintain a complete network.

Conclusion

• Saving the project file is important after completing setup and task entry.
• Join future videos for more in-depth Microsoft Project tutorials.