Random File Corruption

[brent]

I am using Project 2007 to manage a small (<100 lines), very basic, rolling
manufacturing production schedule. Without notice, the tasks in the file
become scrambled when the file is re-opened after saving edits. The schedule
is edited and re-saved several times a weeks by a single user. - possible
fragementation issue - however all the posted 'fixes' for this have not
worked.

I am using only the basic functionality of the software - linked tasks and
resource filtering (very basic!). Is this a common 'bug' with MSP? I have
used MSP for years without issue, but only recently started using 2007. Any
ideas would be appreciated!

 

[John]

I am using Project 2007 to manage a small (<100 lines), very basic, rolling
manufacturing production schedule. Without notice, the tasks in the file
become scrambled when the file is re-opened after saving edits. The schedule
is edited and re-saved several times a weeks by a single user. - possible
fragementation issue - however all the posted 'fixes' for this have not
worked.

I am using only the basic functionality of the software - linked tasks and
resource filtering (very basic!). Is this a common 'bug' with MSP? I have
used MSP for years without issue, but only recently started using 2007. Any
ideas would be appreciated!

Brent,
First of all, make sure you have the latest update installed for Project
2007. I think that is SP1 but there may be something later. Check the
Microsoft Project webpage.

One common problem that can cause corruption is links on summary lines.
If you have them, reconfigure your file to eliminate them. Another thing
that can lead to corruption is the improper use of paste links, either
with other files or within a Project file itself.

Over the years I have managed to avoid corruption by always using "Save
As" whenever I edit and save a file - it helps keep file bloat in check.
Most often I simply save with the same name.

You mentioned that you tried "all the posted fixes". Did you go to our
MVP website at, http://www.mvps.org/project/faqs.htm, and read FAQ 43 -
Handling project file corruption and bloat? If not, try one or all of
those suggestions.

John
Project MVP

 

[brent]

"improper use of paste links" - can you explain further?
No I have not updated the software - will do now.
No I do not have any links to summary lines
Yes i tried fixing the problem as suggested on FAQ 43 - It did not fix it,
but the file may have been saved prior to attempting. I also wasn't able to
locate the MPD file save type option?.?. Good tip on the "save as" - I did
not know about this.

Thanks!

 

[John]

"improper use of paste links" - can you explain further?
No I have not updated the software - will do now.
No I do not have any links to summary lines
Yes i tried fixing the problem as suggested on FAQ 43 - It did not fix it,
but the file may have been saved prior to attempting. I also wasn't able to
locate the MPD file save type option?.?. Good tip on the "save as" - I did
not know about this.

Thanks!

Brent,
You're welcome. Paste links are sometimes used to link Project data with
other applications (e.g. Excel). They are also used within Project to
create hammock tasks. In the Project menu they are found under
Edit/Paste Special. In some cases paste links look tempting but to
normal users, paste links are a corruption dragon waiting to strike.

I don't use Project 2007 very much and the option to save as .mpd may
have been deleted. I'd try installing the update and see what happens.

John
Project MVP