What is the easiest way to generate the planned percentage complete for each month in Microsoft project 2003?

Answer 1

In Microsoft Project 2003, generating the planned percentage complete for each month can be done using several methods. However, one of the easiest ways is to utilize the built-in features for setting up baseline plans and comparing them with the current schedule. By following the steps and best practices mentioned below, you can easily generate the planned percentage complete for each month in Microsoft Project 2003, enabling effective monitoring and management of your project's progress.

Here's a step-by-step guide along with some insights and best practices:

1. Set Baseline:
2. Before you start tracking progress, it's essential to set a baseline for your project. This baseline represents the original plan against which you'll compare actual progress.
3. To set a baseline in Microsoft Project 2003, go to the "Tools" menu, then select "Tracking" and finally choose "Save Baseline". You can choose to save Baseline 1-5 depending on your needs.
4. Enter Planned Start and Finish Dates:
5. Ensure that each task in your project has a planned start and finish date set. This information will be used to calculate the planned percentage complete for each month.
6. Display the Tracking Gantt View:
7. Switch to the "View" menu and select "Tracking Gantt". This view displays both the baseline schedule (original plan) and the current schedule (actual progress) on the same Gantt chart, making it easy to compare them.
8. Adjust Timescale:
9. To focus on monthly intervals, adjust the timescale of the Gantt chart. Right-click on the timescale (usually at the top of the chart) and choose "Timescale".
10. In the "Timescale" dialog box, select the appropriate format (e.g., "Months") and set the desired interval (e.g., "1 month").
11. Compare Baseline vs. Actual:
12. In the Tracking Gantt view, you'll see bars representing both the baseline schedule (planned) and the current schedule (actual). Compare the lengths of these bars to assess progress.
13. Planned Percentage Complete for each month can be estimated by comparing the length of completed planned tasks against the total planned duration for that month.
14. Analyze Data:
15. Use the information from the Tracking Gantt view to determine the planned percentage complete for each month. Calculate the ratio of completed planned tasks' duration to the total planned duration for each month.
16. You can manually calculate these percentages or use Excel or another spreadsheet tool for easier calculation and analysis.
17. Document and Communicate Results:
18. Once you've determined the planned percentage complete for each month, document the findings and communicate them to stakeholders, team members, or anyone else involved in the project.
19. Use charts or reports to present the data visually, making it easier to understand and interpret.
20. Adjustments and Iterations:
21. As your project progresses, continue to update the baseline and track actual progress against it. Regularly review and adjust your planned percentage complete calculations based on the latest data.
22. This iterative process helps ensure that your project stays on track and allows you to make informed decisions to mitigate any deviations from the original plan.