Reply by Neil McLachlan from Co Serve Consulting on Thursday, 19 July, 2012 - 12:53

Before you go to far along this path I think you need to fully assess whether Microsoft Project is the right application for your circumstances. While it's true that Microsoft Project enjoys widespread use and support, there are alternative project planning and/or management applications, of varying degrees of sophistication, offered by several vendors which may suit your particular requirements better. Project is a very capable project management package and, although it's a widely used "off the shelf" product, it is complex and somewhat difficult to get to grips with without a sound understanding of project management concepts and adequate training. Fortunately there are training organisations that provide entry level and more advanced training courses for Project and for project management generally. However, I suggest you investigate alternative options first to see what they can deliver in your circumstances. Alternatives increasingly include Internet based SaaS (Software as a Service) products, and range from "easy to use" collaborative scheduling tools such as Smartsheet to more fully fledged PERT (Program Evaluation and Review Technique) based products such as Copper and Tenrox. Neil McLachlan | e :: neil@coserve.com.au | t :: 02 4782 6917 | f :: 02 4782 7815

Reply by Grant Laing from Blended IT Solutions on Thursday, 19 July, 2012 - 13:10

Hi, MS project is a good product and will manage projects very well. the main difference between the two editions is that professional will allow resource management as well, and also allows team collaboration (with project server or sharepoint foundation server). You just need to decide what functionality you require. this quick training site may help. http://office.microsoft.com/en-au/project-help/getting-started-microsoft-project-basics-HA010355887.aspx If you get the software from donortec then you will need to purchase 4 x project software. If you buy it else where you will need to purchase 5 cals as minimum, as this is the open licence standard. If you have any other questions please don't hesitate to ask.