how to use the set merge key in MS project?

[Trisha S Kurth]

I'm trying to merge a set of data from XLS to Project. My coworker used a
field mapping and set a unique key on the data column called 'Task ID' so
that all unique numbers are compared before import. Unfortunately, as I
create my own map, I do not see the 'Set Merge Key' to apply to my map. Any
suggestion as to how this button is enabled in the Import Wizard?

 

[JulieS]

Hello Trisha,

The option to merge a file in with an existing project file comes up
during the Import Wizard, right after the option to use an existing map
or create a new map. You are presented with 3 choices:

How do you want to import this file?
As a new project?
Append the data to the active project?
Merge the data into the active project?

If you choose the option "Merge" you should be afforded the chance to
set the merge key during the Task Mapping or Resource Mapping portion of
the wizard. Look for the button "Set Merge Key."

I suggest that if you are going to try to merge data with an existing
project file, you start by exporting data to excel and make sure you
export the Unique ID field for tasks, resources, and assignments. Using
the Task ID field may not always work if you have not been very careful
about updating the field in both places -- in Project and in the excel
file.

I hope this helps. Let us know how you get along.

Julie
Project MVP

Visit http://project.mvps.org/ for the FAQs and additional information
about Microsoft Project