creating an external predessor

[Danny]

Is there an easier way to create an external predessor other than opening the
2 plans, arrange all, then in the ID filed type the project name etc. From
what I remember doing this back in 2002 using MS Project 2000, there was an
easier wat to do it, (a MS person walked me through this), but it has been so
long that I have forgotten.

Thanks in advance.

 

[Jim Aksel]

The safest way.
Open both projects.
Window/New Window...
Select both projects and then select OK.

The result is a new master project file containing the two subordinate
files. You then link as usual by selecting the predecessor, then the
successor. Press the link icon.

Be certain to save the two original files. It is up to you if you wish to
save the third file (the new master).

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Jim

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[Danny]

Thanks Jim.

I could could do this, and as you said, it would be the "safest". But I know
there is a way to have the 2 plans open, and instead of typing the file name
there is a simpler way, just can't remember it. I had to call the MS support
line back in 2002 and thet talked me through it, (guess my brain doesn't
funtion the wat it used to). I would call them again, but their prices have
gone up to 49$.

I appreciate any help.

 

[Jack Dahlgren]

Jim's way is the best way. Try it. It does not require typing the file name.

I think it would be the way that Microsoft would recommend so it is probably
identical to what MS support has told you in the past.

-Jack Dahlgren

 

[Danny]

Thanks guys, but this is not the way that I did it in the past. Though I know
it is the safest, there was nothing wrong with the way the told me before,
other than I just can't remember. I have far too many tasks in my plans to
link them this way. I may just have to resort to calling them and paying the
49$.

Thanks guys

 

[Jim Aksel]

Hi Danny - The method we are suggesting does NOT require you to type
anything. I have a Master Project with 96 subordinate files containing over
600 links between the files. Not once have I typed a file name or path.

Since things get somewhat convoluted, what we do (in the Master.mpp level
file) is insert a column such as Flag1. When we find a group of tasks we
want to link, we set Flag1="Yes" and then filter to Flag1. This hides most
of the tasks so we can clearly see what is being linked. Then we follow the
prodecure I mentioned.

If you post back with what you can remember, maybe this will help me get you
a different solution. Again, here's my solution:

Open both files.
Click Window/New Window...
Select the two file names, press OK.
[A new project file opens containing the previous two files]
Hold the control key and select the successor task.
While holding the control key, select the predecessor task
Click on the chain link icon to establish a link between the tasks.
Save your two original files.

Nowhere did I say to type anything.

If you recall any portion of what you paid Microsoft for last time, let us
know and we'll be happy to expand on it (for free).


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Jim

Check out my new blog for more information:
http://www.msprojectblog.com

 

[Jan De Messemaeker]

Good Luck, but IMHO there is no other way short of typing the address :-(

--
Jan De Messemaeker
Microsoft Project Most Valuable Professional
+32 495 300 620
For availability check:
http://users.online.be/prom-ade/Calendar.pdf