Reply 1
Some advantages of using MS Project for project planning are the versatility, resource optimization, and a dashboard that allows you to move with and change direction, with a realistic overview outcome for the project. This programs modules help with funding developments, milestone scheduling, and progressional changes throughout the project. The program is easily compatible with different size projects as well as integrating with other Microsoft enabled programs. Some disadvantages of using MS Project are the time it takes to become familiar with the program and potential training costs in order to be fluid with the program. Another disadvantage is going to not only be the initial cost in integrating the system. There will be additional updates as there are with all technology and new versions of the program that will come out in time. As changes are made to the programming there may be cost in the future for further training in order to become fluid with the new changes.
There are many advantages and disadvantages of project management. When looking this topic up, I found a few items that were consistent.
Reply 2
Disadvantages:
Project management software can be quite expensive. The upfront costs of just the software, training employees to use the software and maintaining the software to avoid technical glitches all have a role in the overall cost of the software. Some companies may want to put the same money into different uses and do all the activities done by the software the old way.
The learning curve can be quite steep. Especially if you have employees that are not that familiar with computers or technology itself. Even if you are familiar with computers, learning a new software can be difficult sometimes. Depending on how long it takes to get a hang of the software or if there is training involved; this can also combine with the cost of the software.
It can make easy tasks difficult. It can take a simple project and complicate it by breaking it down more than required. The software creates a central database and links everything and some projects do not require this as it is a simple task(s).
Advantages:
The central database is also an advantage. You have everything in one spot that everyone that is working on the project can access. This eliminates data discrepancies and also ensures smooth and fast functioning and communication. This also allows collaboration between individual tasks within the project or different projects by sharing documents, timelines and status updates. If you have a new employee to the project, they can go to this central database and collect all the information needed to get caught up with a project. All employees working on the project can access the past documents if they have any questions or concerns
“Project management software lets project managers add a start and expected completion date to projects and tasks they include in the system. This information alerts employees to upcoming deadlines, allowing them to manage their time appropriately to complete tasks before or on the listed due date” (Brookins). PM software also allows delegation of tasks, so that individuals know exactly what they need to do and who to contact if they have any questions.
These are just some of the advantages and disadvantages of the project management software. Every business will need to look at these pro and cons before deciding if they need or want this type of software and if it would be beneficial to their business.
