Microsoft Project Tutorial Note
Introduction to Microsoft Project
Microsoft Project is a project management software developed by Microsoft. It is used to
plan, schedule, assign resources, track progress, and manage budgets for projects. It is
commonly used in construction, IT, engineering, and business sectors.
Objectives of the Tutorial
By the end of this tutorial, you will:
- Understand the basic functions of MS Project.
- Learn how to create and schedule a project.
- Assign resources and track progress.
- Generate project reports and Gantt charts.
Main Features of MS Project
- Task Management – Define tasks, duration, dependencies.
- Gantt Chart – Visualize project schedule with a bar chart.
- Resource Management – Assign people, materials, and equipment.
- Timeline View – View project milestones clearly.
- Reports – Generate reports like status, cost, and work overview.
- Critical Path Method (CPM) – Identify the longest path of tasks.
Basic Components
Component Description
Task Work item or activity in the project
Duration Time needed to complete a task
Dependency Logical relationship between tasks
Resources People, equipment, or materials assigned to
tasks
Gantt Chart Visual timeline of tasks and dependencies
Baseline Original project plan for tracking
Steps to Create a New Project
1. Open MS Project:
Click Start > Microsoft Project.
2. Set Project Information:
Go to Project > Project Information. Set Start Date, Calendar, and Schedule from (start or
finish date).
3. Enter Tasks:
In the Gantt Chart view, enter task names in the Task Name column. Add Duration (e.g., 5
days).
4. Set Task Dependencies:
Use the Predecessor column to link tasks. Example: Task B starts after Task A finishes → FS
(Finish to Start).
5. Create Milestones:
Enter 0 days as the duration for milestone tasks.
6. Assign Resources:
Go to View > Resource Sheet. Enter resource names, types (work, material), and rates.
Assign them to tasks in Resource Names column.
7. Set Constraints:
Use Task Information > Advanced tab to add constraints (e.g., Must Start On).
Tracking Progress
Use % Complete column to track work done. Compare with Baseline to see project
performance.
Generate Reports
Go to Report > New Report. Choose from Dashboards, Resources, Costs, In Progress,
Overview. Customize and print or export reports.
Tips for Best Practice
- Always save a baseline before starting.
- Use WBS (Work Breakdown Structure) for clear task hierarchy.
- Regularly update task progress.
- Monitor the critical path to avoid project delays.
Conclusion
MS Project is a powerful tool that helps manage time, resources, and costs efficiently.
Learning it is essential for project managers, engineers, and planners to ensure successful
project delivery.
Practice Task for Students
Create a sample project for "Residential Building Construction" including:
- 10 tasks (e.g., excavation, foundation, walls, roofing, etc.)
- Assign durations
- Add dependencies
- Add 3 resources
- Track progress (50% complete)
- Generate a progress report
