Do we need the Server or just Project Professional?

[Dr. Misell]

We would like to allow multiple user access to project
files and store documents related to inidvidual projects
on our comanies server. Do we need to buy the "Micorsoft
Server" or can we buy "Microsoft Project Professional" in
order to do this? We don't need to access it via the Web,
we have a VPN set-up so we can access files from out of
the office.
Thanks for your help!!
Dr. Misell

 

[Jan De Messemaeker]

Hi,

You definitely shouldn't buy Professional if you do not use Server.
The only difference between Professional and Standard is a more complete
link to Server
So logically it is either Standard or Professional and Server.

This being said, do notice that Server can best be seen as a supplementary
application: it does not (much) improve the functions of the client bit, it
gives you functionallity on consolidated levels.
It's a bit long to explain so I best refer to Microsoft's website.

Multiple user access to Project files? Yes, even with Standad, but NO
version will allow simultaneous update: the first one to open the file gets
it read-wite, the next one(s) get it read only. That is independent of the
type of license, that is how it works.

Store documents... do read about Server, maybe here are features that may be
of interest to you.
HTH
--
Jan De Messemaeker
Microsoft Project Most Valuable Professional
Project Management Consultancy
Prom+ade BVBA
32-495-300 620

--
Jan De Messemaeker
Microsoft Project Most Valuable Professional
Project Management Consultancy
Prom+ade BVBA
32-495-300 620

 

[Sarah]

Dr. Misell,

If your users can access the files through a shared directory
structure, and this is enough for you, then you do not need the
server. However, there are many benefits to using the full Server
Edition. You have the Project Web Access, which allows all resources
to view project information without having MS Project installed on
their systems. In addition, they can enter task updates and submit
them to the PM. The PWA also has a document repository that is helpful
for keeping all project documentation in one, easily accessible place.
I'm sure others on here can enumerate many more benefits of using the
full functionality.

Sarah