Chapter 4: Underlying Concepts of Microsoft Project

In the vast and complex world of science, a lot of value is placed on the elegant simplicity of scientific equations. Everybody has heard of Einstein's simple but profound equation. In the world of Microsoft Project, there exists a similar, simple formula. This simple formula is the bedrock upon which Project performs a multitude of calculations involving tasks, resources, assignments, calendars, tracking, and so on. But Microsoft did not invent this formula; it has been known to Project Managers from a very long time. You will recognize this formula, and begin to understand how Project really works, in this chapter.

Then, we will explore calendars in Project. If you can compare "managing a project" to "conducting an orchestra", you will find a great deal of similarities. It is the role of the conductor (project manager) to synchronize skilled musicians (team members) to create beautiful music (achieve...