Is Microsoft Project Online The Right Solution For You?

Suppose you are considering using MS Project but are not sure whether you should switch to the hosted version of the application or the desktop version. In that case, you may wonder whether Microsoft’s new online project management solution is right for you. There are several reasons for this, including its flexibility and suitability for smaller organizations. Besides, you may be wondering how MS Project Pro connects with Microsoft Project Online. To communicate with the service, you must open a new blank project and navigate to File> Info > Manage Accounts. After doing this, relaunch MS Project and connect to Project Online. Then, your project will be saved in the cloud, and other stakeholders can view it.

Microsoft Project is a desktop application

The desktop application Microsoft Project shares many similarities with other applications, including a familiar Office Ribbon and a task grid. But unlike Excel, which is more suited for personal use, Microsoft Project is more geared toward managing the work of a team. The tool’s features include a Gantt chart, resource allocation, milestones, and a wealth of reporting options. However, if you don’t have an IT department or are too busy to handle all these details traditionally, Microsoft Project Online may be your solution.

The desktop client of Microsoft’s project management software carries many similarities with the online version. It includes automatic scheduling, resource management, and dependencies. It can be used standalone or connected to Project Online and has the option to create Power BI reports. Currently, only Project Plan 3 and 5 subscriptions include a desktop client. It is also available for purchase separately. While Project Online offers a more comprehensive user experience, the desktop client is a better option for businesses that want to manage multiple projects.

Microsoft Project Online is a cloud-based hosted version of Microsoft Project Server

When deciding whether to use a cloud-based version of Microsoft Project, you need to determine if you’d like to have a dedicated server or a cloud-based version. Having an on-premise server is still possible, but many large organizations are switching to Project Online because they can retain better data control. The advantages of using Microsoft Project Server are apparent: it’s widely used and has a broad range of features.

If you don’t want to invest in an on-premises system, you can opt for Microsoft’s Project Online solution, which is available in several plans. Plans are priced according to the number of users, and you can select the number of users you want. Of course, you can always choose a trial plan if you’re unsure about what you need. The subscription plans can be purchased separately or as an addition to Microsoft’s other offerings, such as Office 365.

It’s suitable for small organizations

Despite the popularity of the MS Project, it is not suitable for all types of organizations. While it’s intuitive for professionals with years of experience using the software, beginners may find it overwhelming. That’s why it’s essential to have training before diving into the software. A training class is necessary because it will prevent you from getting too caught up in the small details and missing the big picture. Microsoft Project Online is the right option for you if you are a small or medium organization.

Microsoft Project Online also includes add-ons and licenses that you can purchase separately. For example, Power BI, Azure Boards, and Microsoft Teams can all be added as add-ons. On the other hand, Sharepoint is a sharing portal perfect for large files and teams. In addition, Microsoft Project Online has three subscription tiers: project plan 1, 2, and business plan. Purchasing project plan one requires a subscription to the Microsoft Project Online service.

It’s more flexible

If you’re looking for a cloud-based project management solution, you might consider Microsoft’s Project Online. This solution offers all the features of traditional MS Project but allows organizations to manage projects and portfolios from virtually any location. Microsoft’s cloud-based solution is much more flexible but has some drawbacks. For example, it’s challenging to learn and requires intensive training. This can add time to implementation.

One of the most significant drawbacks of the Microsoft Project is that it has proprietary files that other PCs cannot open. This requires project managers to test and check whether the File recipient can open it. Project managers must produce printouts in formats and file types compatible with other systems to solve this problem.

Engaging in Learning Microsoft Excel fosters fundamental spreadsheet skills, enabling effective data management, analysis, and visualization. It enhances productivity, aiding proficiency across diverse professional and academic scenarios.