How can I merge two files in Project?

[Nikki]

For example, I have just finished updating my progress and adding notes
etc...and then I get an updated project from the manager. Can I merge my
changes with the changes that were made in the project? I know this is not
the best way to handle sharing a project, but still is there a way to do this?

 

[Joe]

No

 

[John]

For example, I have just finished updating my progress and adding notes
etc...and then I get an updated project from the manager. Can I merge my
changes with the changes that were made in the project? I know this is not
the best way to handle sharing a project, but still is there a way to do this?

Mikki,
I have to disagree with Joe's response. The correct answer is "yes".
Depending on how the files are structured and the differences between
the files, one or more methods can be used to "merge" the data. one
method is to run a comparison between the two files to determine the
differences using the Compare Project Versions which is utility in
Project 2003 and an add-in for Project 2000. Once the differences are
known, the file that has the greater difference from the baseline (i.e.
before your updates or your manager's updates) can be updated manually
or updates can be automated with a VBA macro.

However a much better solution is to put the file on a shared server.
That way changes can only be made by one person at a time and no
conflicts occur.

Hope this helps.
John

 

[John]

I agree with John... minimize the number of versions of a plan which may
be "floating around", and if possible, utilize the central storage and
control provided by Project Server.

What version of MSProject are you using? Do you have a Project Server
installed, or are you simply using the desktop version?

If you don't have a Project Server, then another option is to store your
project plans on a central network drive. Although this solution is not
as robust as using Project Server, with some discipline, you can have
some of the same benefits of central storage and control. If there are
multiple Project Managers who are building and maintaining project plans,
then they can all store their plans in a central location on a network
drive. This also for single-user editing of a project file at a time,
although not as foolproof as Project Server's "Check-out / Check-in"
functionality. You could even create master projects for a makeshift
organizational / portfolio view of several projects at once!

Good luck!


Tony Zink
ProjectUser.com
--

Tony,
Just for reference I wasn't referring to Project Server in my response.
I used the term "shared server", meaning a central server (i.e network
drive) on a LAN. I would guess that most of the people who post do NOT
have Project Server so my responses give solutions for the regular users.

John
Project MVP