Project Desktop vs. Project Online vs. Project for the Web

Introduction

In this episode, Yasmine Brooks breaks down the intricacies of Microsoft Project, focusing on the key tools available: Project Desktop, Project Online (or Project Web App), and Project for the Web. Let's explore the differences and find out which tool suits your project management needs.

Understanding Project Desktop

1. Classic Version: Project Desktop is the go-to classic version, akin to Microsoft Word's longevity.
2. Standalone Application: It's a desktop application requiring installation similar to Excel.
3. User-Friendly Challenges: Despite its power, Project Desktop may seem intimidating initially, much like Excel was for many users.
4. Project Visualization: Brooks showcases a single-story construction project plan, emphasizing task lists, durations, and a Gantt chart.
5. Resource Management: Detailed exploration of generic resources, work resources, cost resources, and material costs.
6. Cost Tracking: Demonstrates how Project Desktop allows tracking of estimated costs, actual costs, and variances.

Transition to Project Online

1. Collaboration Necessity: To collaborate, move from Project Desktop to Project Online (or Project Web App).
2. Publishing Project: Yasmine explains the steps to save and publish a Project Desktop project to Project Online for online access.
3. Additional Features: Project Online offers features like approval centers, risk management, and strategic planning.

Introducing Project for the Web

1. User-Friendly Evolution: Microsoft addresses the less user-friendly nature of Project Desktop with Project for the Web.
2. Direct Online Access: Unlike Project Desktop, Project for the Web is an online version accessible at project.microsoft.com.
3. Simplified Steps: No need for publishing; users can directly create and manage plans.
4. Try New Project Feature: Brooks highlights Microsoft's plan to discontinue Project Web App in favor of Project for the Web.

Exploring Project for the Web

1. User-Centric Design: Project for the Web is designed to be more user-friendly than its predecessors.
2. Project Creation: A demonstration of creating a project plan directly in Project for the Web without the need for additional steps.
3. Eliminating Confusion: Emphasizes the simplicity of Project for the Web compared to the sometimes-confusing steps in Project Web App.
4. Accessible Online: Users can access and manage projects directly through project.microsoft.com.

Conclusion

Yasmine Brooks wraps up the exploration of Microsoft Project tools, providing a clear understanding of Project Desktop's robust capabilities, the collaborative features of Project Online, and the user-friendly approach of Project for the Web.

As Microsoft phases out Project Web App, Project for the Web emerges as the future of online project management, streamlining processes for a more intuitive and efficient user experience.

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