Import a Microsoft Project File into Microsoft Planner

Hey there, fellow project managers and Microsoft Project users! If your organization is making the leap from the trusty old Microsoft Project desktop tool to the new Microsoft Planner application, then you’re in for a bit of a surprise. Today, I’m here to walk you through the process to Import a Microsoft Project File into Microsoft Planner. Not only that, but I’ll also share some valuable insights to help you navigate the transition smoothly. If you would prefer to watch the YouTube video on this subject, click here or click the thumbnail below.

Import a Microsoft Project File into Microsoft Planner: Why Import to Microsoft Planner?

So, you’ve been diligently working on your projects in Microsoft Project, and now it’s time to make the switch to Microsoft Planner. Don’t fret – you can bring your projects along for the ride. Before we begin, take a moment to review your Microsoft Project file. This is important because it helps you understand what to expect during and after the import process. Here’s what you need to look out for:

• Your project includes summary tasks, detailed tasks, and milestones.
• Different types of task dependencies are present, including finish-to-start and start-to-start.
• Lag time is applied to several task dependencies.
• Task constraints are documented with notes.
• There are a couple of deadline dates hidden in there.
• Your project has a dedicated team with resources, including work, cost, and material resources.
• Resources are assigned to specific tasks in the project.
• An original baseline has been saved for this project.
• Progress has been entered up to the status date.

Step-by-Step Guide to Importing

Ready to make the transition? Let’s get started:

1. Navigate to the Project Home Page

Launch your preferred web browser and navigate to the Project Home page.

2. Initiate Project Creation

Click the “New Project” button at the top of the page.

3. Choose Import Option

In the create dialog, look for and click the “Import Project” button.

4. Select Microsoft Project File

In the “Import from Project Desktop” dialog, click the “Choose MPP File” button. Locate your Microsoft Project file in your designated folder and select it.

5. Initiate Import

Once you’ve chosen the file, click the “Open” button. Microsoft Planner will work its magic and import the project from Microsoft Project.

6. Review the Import Results

After the import is complete, an “Import Complete” dialog will appear. Take a moment to review the differences between your Microsoft Project file and what’s now in Microsoft Planner.

• Notice which features are not supported in Microsoft Planner yet.
• Be aware of any changes that occurred during the import, such as removed resources, deadlines, baselines, and task dependencies being converted.

7. Acknowledge and Move Forward

With a clear understanding of the changes, click the “OK” button to proceed.

8. Post-Import Adjustments

When you view your project in Microsoft Planner, be prepared for some differences. Default calendars in Microsoft Planner might not include company holidays, so you might need to adjust your scheduling accordingly.

• Microsoft Planner offers all four dependency types (FS, SS, FF, and SF), but it does not yet offer Lag time and Lead time.
• Constraints from Microsoft Project won’t carry over.
• Your project team will be removed during the import process, requiring you to rebuild it.
• You will need to reassign resources to tasks manually.

And there you have it – a comprehensive guide to successfully importing your Microsoft Project files into Microsoft Planner. If you found this guide helpful, consider subscribing to my YouTube channel.

Have questions about Microsoft Planner? Curious about specific functionalities or strategies? Drop a comment in the Comments section below – I’m here to provide answers and learn together.