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Microsoft Project 2013

Project management software featuring easy reporting features and in-program communications tools

5.4

90 Votes

  • Category Project Management
  • Program license Trial version
  • Version 2013
  • Works under: Windows 8.1
  • Program available in English
  • Program by Microsoft

Microsoft Project is the dominant project management software at most companies for a reason: Project offers a comprehensive set of project management tools, and has for years. The latest version of Project is all that and more, allowing deployment both on-site and in the cloud. With the new cloud deployment feature, Microsoft Project embodies the essence of collaboration.

MS Project allows the visualization of a project’s entire scope, allowing each separate functional area to be allocated its own “swim lane.” To each swim lane owners are assigned, progress is tracked. timelines can be adjusted. Tasks can be rescheduled, and new tasks can be added. By remaining flexible and editable in the extreme, MS Project can stay updated to reflect the real-world status of the project. Thus, MS Project becomes a database of record for an entire large-scale project.

The new cloud installation and MS SharePoint integration is helpful given the collaborative nature of projects in general. Cloud integration helps share the wealth when there’s an excess of data-entry and reporting demands. Using Project on the cloud prevents a single overworked project manager from being the centerpoint of all deliverable updates and report generation. Tasks requiring access to Project can be shared, while data retains its single-copy integrity, and locking isn’t an issue even with multiple users.

The user interface of Project 2013 uses the MS Office “ribbon” motif introduced on Office 2007. It also incorporates the “Backstage” file management window pane. These are handy features that smooth integration with the Office applications most project managers use alongside MS Project, thus reducing confusion and fatigue. The latest version of Project is delivered through Office 365. Say goodbye to DVD installation.

Another advantage of the new version: Dates for projects may now be scheduled out to the year 2149. Not many of us are likely to be around to update our Project deliverables by then, but it’s nice to know the project itself won’t be forgotten.

If you’re running a large project, you need MS Project. You’ll also need the skill it takes to use it effectively. It pays to learn to work with all MS Project's features to fully leverage all it can do to smooth productivity, hold people accountable, and deliver a quality project.

Pros:

  • THE dominant project management software
  • Cloud-based implementation eases collaboration
  • Good integration with MS Office apps

Cons:

  • A learning curve is involved
  • Many features will go unused
  • Small projects might be better served with a smaller product
  • Cost
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