If you would rather watch the YouTube video on this subject, click here or click the thumbnail below.
What is a Project Task Constraints?
A constraint is a date override that you apply to either the Start date or Finish date of a task for reasons known only to you that Microsoft Project could never know. There is only one right way to set a constraint. Let me show you how.
Setting a Project Task Constraints
Before you start the Project Task Constraints-setting process, locate the task in Microsoft Project that needs a task constraint. Avoid the incorrect method for setting a constraint, which is manually typing or selecting a date in the Start or Finish cell, which triggers Microsoft Project’s automatic constraint setting behavior. If you use the incorrect method, the software will select the constraint it wants…and it will not ask your permission for doing so! Avoid this at all costs.
Here is how to set a constraint properly:
- Double-click the task to open the Task Information dialog.
- Click the “Advanced” tab in the dialog.
- Click the “Constraint Type” pick-list button select the appropriate constraint type (e.g., “Start No Earlier Than” or “Finish No Later Than”).
- Enter or select the desired date for the constraint in the Constraint Date field.
- Optionally, add a task note to explain the reason for the constraint.
- Click the OK button to set the constraint.
After setting the constraint, apply the Gantt Chart view to ensure the task’s schedule adjusts according to the applied constraint. You can then repeat this process to set constraints to other tasks, if necessary.
If you have questions, please add them in the Comments section below. Or if you watch the video, add your questions or comments there. Please subscribe to my YouTube channel and leave “Likes” if you like the videos.
If you would like to have a formal class on using Microsoft Project, here is a link for my classes.
What Type of Microsoft Project Training Do You Need?
Individual and Small Group Training
OnDemand Training at your own pace
Starting at $399
OnDemand Training
Microsoft Project Standard Desktop Training
Microsoft Project Professional Desktop for Project Online Training
Microsoft Project Professional Desktop for Project Server Training
Templates, Student Hand Outs, Tips and Tricks
Certificate of Completion
Medium & Large Group Training
Onsite, Virtual or OnDemand Training
Contact Me for Discounts
Microsoft Project Standard Desktop Training
Microsoft Project Professional Desktop for Project Online Training
Microsoft Project Professional Desktop for Project Server Training
Templates, Student Hand Outs, Tips and Tricks
Certificate of Completion
Automated Training Progress Report
FAQ
What is Microsoft Project Dynamic Scheduling?
Microsoft Project Dynamic Scheduling is a feature within Microsoft Project that allows you to create flexible project plans, update schedules based on changing circumstances, and optimize resource allocation.
How can Microsoft Project Dynamic Scheduling benefit my project management?
Microsoft Project Dynamic Scheduling can benefit your project management by enabling efficient planning, increased productivity, and the ability to adapt to changes, allowing your projects to thrive.
What role does dynamic scheduling play in effective project management?
Dynamic scheduling plays a crucial role in effective project management by helping you stay on track, manage resources efficiently, and meet project goals.
What features does Microsoft Project offer for dynamic scheduling?
Microsoft Project offers various features and functions for dynamic scheduling, allowing you to create flexible project plans, update schedules in real-time, and optimize resource allocation.
How does dynamic scheduling optimize resource allocation?
Dynamic scheduling in Microsoft Project optimizes resource allocation by providing a flexible project schedule that can adapt to changes in resource availability, ensuring efficient utilization and maximizing productivity.
How does dynamic scheduling streamline project execution?
Dynamic scheduling streamlines project execution by providing a real-time, updated project schedule that enables effective communication, task prioritization, and timely decision-making throughout the project lifecycle.
How does dynamic scheduling enhance collaboration within Microsoft Project?
Dynamic scheduling enhances collaboration in Microsoft Project by offering collaborative features that promote effective communication, facilitate teamwork, and foster a shared understanding of project goals and progress among team members.
How does dynamic scheduling help track progress and manage risks?
Dynamic scheduling in Microsoft Project helps track progress and manage project risks by providing real-time updates and customizable reports that allow you to identify potential bottlenecks, mitigate risks, and take proactive actions to keep your project on track.
How can dynamic scheduling in Microsoft Project leverage data and insights for continuous improvement?
Dynamic scheduling in Microsoft Project provides valuable data and insights for continuous improvement by analyzing project performance metrics, identifying trends, and making data-driven decisions to enhance project outcomes and increase overall efficiency.
Dale Howard
Microsoft Project MVP “20 Years”
About Me
Hello there Microsoft Project lovers! I’m Dale Howard and I’ve been a Microsoft Project MVP (Most Valuable Professional) for 20 years in a row and I’m currently one of only 26 Project MVPs in the entire world. Pretty exciting, right!?
If you post a question about any of Microsoft’s PPM tools on the public message boards, look to see who the moderator or person that has answered the questions and you see, it’s frequently me answering your questions. Some people like to golf, I love Microsoft Project helping the community get to understand Microsoft Project much better.
I’ve been teaching students at all levels for over 20 years and have taught thousands of users around the world. I’ve written and co-authored 23 books on Microsoft Project, Project Online, and Project Server so if you’re like me and like to read over watching a video, you can Check Out My Books on Amazon.
For the people that like to watch videos, check out my YouTube channel. If you post a question in the comments, I’ll be happy to answer questions or create a new video to answer your question.
If you’ve got a question about Microsoft Project, Project Online or Project Server, check out some of these community post areas below where I am the moderator and have been answering questions on these message boards for over 20 years.
Microsoft Tech Community
Reddit Project Online Community
LinkedIn Project and Planner Group
Leave a Reply