Experiences with Outlook integration?

[ProjectAnalyst]

We are considering an upgrade to Project 2003.

Does anyone have any experiences with the Outlook integration features of
Project 2003 to either encourage me to use them, or warn me away from them?

Thanks!

 

[Ray]

The only problem we have found is with PDA sync. The calendar items are
placed on the calendar as a multi-day item. When you do a HotSync (v6 for
the Treo 650), it converts multi-day items into multiple single day items
and removes the Project form code.

If you then import the tasks again, you have your multi-day task back along
with the HotSync-made single day ones.

It's a great way for someone to update their tasks with a minimum of fuss.

Ray

 

[Chris Marriott]

Hi

Integration with Outlook 2000 and above is on the whole excellent

Here is a list of functions and considerations ... brain dumped so in no
particular order.

You can embed Web Access Client pages as folders or shortcuts
You can also embed digital dashboards

Team members can receive assignments and submit progress through their
calendars

This can only be automated if you are using windows authentication

The integration occurs at the client level ... e.g. I can only exchange data
at the local Outlook (not extended through Exchange)

I can not import Administrative Project assignments (this negates Outlook if
you report non project and non work time through Administrative projects)

Outlook is able to employ its own reminders for task assignments
Outlook is a natural host to task assignments offline with any interaction
Outlook allows you to exchange your data with a PDA allowing task
information to be taken offline
Task Assignments can be set to be displayed as busy time, free time
(Default) or any other type you choose

I hope this give some insight

--
Regards


Chris Marriott - PMP MCSE MCDBA
UK - EPM Consultant & Trainer

 

[ProjectAnalyst]

Thanks Chris, that's exactly the kind of thing I need.

Please, anyone who's got any additional thoughts, chime in and let's hear
them!

 

[ProjectAnalyst]

Wow, great detail. That's not going to be found on MSDN. Thanks very much
Ray. We've got employees who are very excited to use their PDAs with
Project.

 

[Ray]

Well, they'll be right "excited" if the sync messes up their calendar.

We switched from PDAs to Treo's with GoodLink's service, which syncs
everything wirelessly. We don't even install HotSync any more. Too bad the
Treo's have about a 20% hardware failure rate.

Ray