VPN/Network Requirement Precludes Use of Project Server

[Pete Chrisbacher]

Does Microsoft plan to move away from requiring a direct network connection
(ODBC) between Project Pro and Project Server with its next release?
Unfortunately, this requirement is causing us serious problems and is making
us rethink how/whether to implement Project Server.

I work for a consulting firm. I am most often working from a client site,
connected to the client network. All of our clients are justifiably
sensitive about network security, and most block the ports required for
establishing a VPN connection back to our home network and Project Server
(from within Project Pro). Yes, I can of course still connect to PWA, but
PWA doesn't provide the critical project plan management functionality I
require while at the client site working with my team.

Port 80 connectivity capability (like was provided in the current release of
Outlook) would be a HUGE BENEFIT for us. I have to believe there are others
who also see the network connectivity issue as a barrier to implementing
Project Server.

Anone have any insight into MS's plans and/or thinking along these lines?

Thanks -

-Pete

 

[Nico Oosthuysen]

I have heard via the grapeline that the next Project Pro is likely to work
in the same way as Outlook currently does....

 

[Gary L. Chefetz \(MVP\)]

Pete:

Your best bet for now is Terminal Services. Even without the VPN
requirement, the performance isn't good enough over the Internet.

--

Gary L. Chefetz, MVP
"We wrote the book on Project Server
http://www.msprojectexperts.com

-

 

[James]

Pete,

Have you considered the Offline feature ? This is designed to get around
the very issues you raise...

Regards

James