Republic of the Philippines

Polytechnic University of the Philippines

College of Architecture and Fine Arts
Sta. Mesa, Manila

APPROVED SPECIALIZATION 2

SOFTWARE TOOLS
IN PROJECT MANAGEMENT

Submitted by:
Ambrocio, Yza Angelica
De Torrez, Carla Angelou
Limosnero, Aldrin
Lising, Franz
Lo, John Christian
Magdamit, Kenneth Anthony
Musni, Dyan
Ocampo, Paolo
Paulo, Mernalyn
Taguibao, Mark Michael
Tee, Danalice

Submitted to:
Archt. Emilie T. Garcia
Software Tools in Project management

Project management software has the capacity to help plan, organize, and
manage resource pools and develop resource estimates. Depending on the
sophistication of the software, it can manage estimation and planning, scheduling,
cost control and budget management, resource allocation, collaboration software,
communication, decision-making, quality management and documentation or
administration systems. Today, numerous PC & browser based project management
software solutions exist and they are finding their way into almost every type of
business.

Tasks and activities:

Scheduling

One of the most common project management software tool types is scheduling
tools. Scheduling tools are used to sequence project activities and assign dates and
resources to them. The detail and sophistication of a schedule produced by a
scheduling tool can vary considerably with the project management methodology
used, the features provided and the scheduling methods supported. Scheduling
tools may include support for:
-Multiple dependency relationship types between activities
-Resource assignment and leveling
-Critical path
-Activity duration estimation and probability-based simulation
-Activity cost accounting

Providing information

Project planning software can be expected to provide information to various

people or stakeholders, and can be used to measure and justify the level of effort
required to complete the project(s). Typical requirements might include:
-

Overview information on how long tasks will take to complete.

Early warning of any risks to the project.
Information on workload, for planning holidays.
Evidence.
Historical information on how projects have progressed, and in particular,
how actual and planned performance are related.
Optimum utilization of available resource.
Cost maintenance.
Collaboration with each teammates and customers.
Instant communication to collaborators and customers

MICROSOFT WORD

History of Microsoft Word

In 1981, Microsoft hired Charles Simonyi to develop a word-processing

application.
The first version was released in 1983, called "Multi-Tool Word". It was not
initially popular, owing to its radically different look compared to WordPerfect,
the leading word processor at that time.
Microsoft improved Word continually over the years, including a 1985 version
that could run on a Mac.
In 1987, Microsoft brought about the second major release of Word, which
included an upgrade of major features in addition to new functionalities such
as support for the rich text format (RTF), instead of the old plain text, which
allowed people to give their text more depth by altering fonts, boldness and
other such characteristics.
In 1995, with the release of Windows 95 and Office 95, which offered a
bundled set of office productivity software, sales of Microsoft Word increased
significantly.
Microsoft Word is currently the most common word processor on the market.

Word Window Elements

1) Title Bar
The title bar shows the name of the document on screen.
2) Quick Access Toolbar
Located in the top left corner of the Word 2007 window, the Quick Access
Toolbar contains some of the most frequently used commands like Save,
Undo, Redo.
3) Window Controls
These are a set of three buttons in the top right corner of the program
window:
a. The right button, displaying an x, is the Close button.
b. The left button is the Minimize button which minimizes the program
window to the taskbar.
c. The middle button, sporting a rectangle, is the Maximize button,
which, on clicking, maximizes the Word 2007 window and the
button image changes to a pair of rectangles.
4) Ribbon
Ribbon is a collection of horizontal tabbed toolbars which are accessed
through their tabs. The toolbars have command buttons, menus and input

boxes arranged in groups.

5) Office Button
Clicking 'Office' button reveals a drop-down menu showing commands for file
operations. These commands are described below in brief.
6) Help Button
Located below the Window Controls in the top right corner of Word window,
this button brings up the Word Help window.
7) Rulers
The horizontal ruler is used to set tabs and indent text. You may use the
vertical ruler to set vertical location of text in the document.
8) Tab Selector
Repeated clicking of the Tab Selector shows five tab markers and two indent
markers. By choosing the desired tab or indent marker and clicking on the
horizontal ruler, you can set tabs or indent text.
9) Status Bar
On the left hand side, the status bar displays document information such as
the current page number and total number of pages, word count, language,
proofing error notification, etc.
10)

View Buttons

These buttons allow you to use five different document views:

a. Print Layout View: This view shows the document as it will look
when it is printed.
b. Full Screen Reading View: This view shows the document on full
screen to make reading your document more comfortable.
c. Web Layout View: Web Layout view enables you to see your
document as it would appear in a browser such as Firefox or
Internet Explorer.
d. Outline View: Outline view displays the document in outline form in
which headings could be displayed without the text.
e. Draft View: This is the most frequently used view for editing your
document.

11)

Zoom Tools

The Zoom slider lets you zoom out or zoom in the current document.
12)

Vertical & Horizontal Scroll Bars

The scroll bars let you scroll the document up-down vertically or left-right
horizontally.
13)

Text Area

This is the text area where you type the text of the document. As a character
appears at the cursor, it moves to its immediate right.
Advantages of Microsoft Word

Availability
Integration With Office Programs
Instant Help
Navigation Pane
Document Flexibility

Different Uses of Microsoft Word

Resumes and Portfolios

Visual Chart Presentations
Written Reports
Invitations and Letters
Publishing Books

MICROSOFT EXCEL

History of Microsoft Excel

Microsoft originally marketed a spreadsheet program called Multiplan in 1982,
which was very popular on CP/M systems, but on MS-DOS systems it lost popularity
to Lotus 1-2-3.
This promoted development of a new spreadsheet called Excel which started
with the intention to 'do everything 1-2-3 does and do it better'.
The first version of Excel was released for the Mac in 1985 and the first
Windows version was released in November 1987.

Lotus was slow to bring 1-2-3 to Windows and by 1988 Excel had started to
outsell 1-2-3 and helped Microsoft achieve the position of leading PC software
developer.
This accomplishment, dethroning the king of the software world, solidified
Microsoft as a valid competitor and showed its future of developing graphical
software.
Microsoft pushed its advantage with regular new releases, every two years or
so. The current version for the Windows platform is Excel 11, also called Microsoft
Office Excel 2003. The current version for the Mac OS X platform is Microsoft Excel
2004.

Basic operation
Microsoft Excel has
the basic features of all
spreadsheets, using a grid of
cells arranged in numbered
rows
and
letter-named
columns to organize data
manipulations
like
arithmetic operations. It has
a
battery
of
supplied
functions
to
answer
statistical, engineering and
financial needs. In addition, it
can display data as line graphs, histograms and charts, and with a very limited
three-dimensional graphical display. It allows sectioning of data to view its
dependencies on various factors for different perspectives (using pivot tables and
the scenario manager).
It has a programming aspect, Visual Basic for Applications, allowing the user
to employ a wide variety of numerical methods, for example, for solving differential
equations of mathematical physics, and then reporting the results back to the
spreadsheet.
It also has a variety of interactive features allowing user interfaces that can
completely hide the spreadsheet from the user, so the spreadsheet presents itself
as a so-called application, or decision support system (DSS), via a custom-designed
user interface, for example, a stock analyzer, or in general, as a design tool that
asks the user questions and provides answers and reports. In a more elaborate
realization, an Excel application can automatically poll external databases and

measuring instruments using an update schedule, analyze the results, make a Word
report or PowerPoint slide show, and e-mail these presentations on a regular basis
to a list of participants.

Advantages:

Many companies have always used and therefore prefer Excel. Excel has
some clear advantages, especially for minor projects or single events:
Comes with Office package. Nearly all companies use Microsoft Office, which
includes Excel. Most would argue that this is the most important reason to explain
why many companies still use Excel for project management purposes.
Adaptable. Excel can be adapted to meet specific company needs and reporting
requirements.
Local data. All data are located locally, and thus accessible for all employees via
e.g. a shared drive.
Analyses. Pivot and customise data as needed, and illustrate using a wide variety
of matrices and charts.
At your fingertips. No need to extract data from external systems; all invoice data
are right at your fingertips.
Standardised. If all employees share an hourly rate, or for in-house projects, Excel
is exceedingly easy to use for generating and illustrating sum totals.
Easy copying. Data are easily copied but this is also one of the greatest flaws
where major projects are concerned.

Basic knowledge. Most employees have a general understanding of how Excel

works, greatly evening out the learning curve.
Analysis tools. Excel displays relations that werent previously obvious, e.g. using
pivot tables and advanced look-up features. For analysis purposes, its a strong
application.
Presentation. Using Excel, reporting is generally hassle-free.

STAAD

STAAD or (STAAD.Pro) is a structural analysis and

design computer program originally developed by
Research Engineers International in Yorba Linda, CA. In
late 2005, Research Engineers International was bought
by Bentley Systems.
STAAD.Pro is the structural engineering professionals choice for steel, concrete,
timber, aluminum, and cold-formed steel design of virtually any structure including
culverts, petrochemical plants, tunnels, bridges, piles, and much more through its
flexible modeling environment, advanced features, and fluent data collaboration.
The commercial version STAAD.Pro is one of the most widely used structural
analysis and design software. It supports several steel, concrete and timber design
codes.
It can make use of various forms of analysis from the traditional 1st order static
analysis, 2nd order p-delta analysis, geometric nonlinear analysis or a buckling
analysis. It can also make use of various forms of dynamic analysis from modal
extraction to time history and response spectrum analysis.

In recent years it has become part of integrated structural analysis and design
solutions mainly using an exposed API
called OpenSTAAD to access and drive
the program using an VB macro system
included in the application or other by
including OpenSTAAD functionality in
applications that themselves include
suitable programmable macro systems.
Additionally STAAD.Pro has added
direct links to applications such as RAM
Connection and STAAD. Foundation to provide engineers working with those
applications which handle design post processing not handled by STAAD.Pro itself.
Another form of integration supported by STAAD.Pro is the analysis schema of the
CIMsteel Integration Standard, version 2 commonly known as CIS/2 and used by a
number modelling and analysis applications.

Basic Operation
STAAD.Pro allows structural engineers to analyze and design virtually any type of
structure through its flexible modeling environment, advanced features and fluent
data collaboration.
Flexible modeling is provided by a state-of-the-art graphical environment and the
design supports over 70 international codes and over 20 U.S. codes in 7 languages.
An array of advanced structural analysis and design features are included such
as nuclear certification for 10CFR Part 50, 10CFR 21, ASME NQA-1-2000, time
history and push over analysis and cable (linear and non-linear) analysis.
Efficiencies are gained through the ability to maintain and streamline current
workflows with fluent data collaboration. STAAD.Pro integrates with other Bentley
products such as STAAD.foundation and ProSteel and OpenSTAAD is provided for
integration with third party programs.

Getting started with STAAD Pro.

In STAAD Pro we can analyze the structures in 2D and 3D, for the
conveinience of modelling and defining the structure for analysis, STAAD uses
different templates for 2D and 3D structures. In STAAD we use the following types of
structures.

Space structures
Plane structures

Floor structures
Truss structures

The plane sturctures can be considered for any one plane. Forces are considered
parallel to the surface of plane or in the surface of the plane.
For the design of horizontal members like slabs, floors etc. the floor structure is
used. It is a 2-D or 3-D structure in which horizontal movement cannot be
considered.
For the structures only the axial force are considered and there is no
bending.

Starting the program

STAAD Pro can be started from the programs menu in windows or from the
desktop Icon (If available). Every time you start the programme a new dialogue box
will pop up. The box consists of types of structure of space, plane, floor and truss.
Select the appropriate structure to be worked out, file name and location to be
saved. The length and force units should be specified to be used in the drawing.
After this step the STAAD Pro interface appears.
In the central area there is a white space with some grids, this is the drawing
area showing the whole structure. We can model our structure and assign the load
in this interface. In the left part there are so many tab which is called page
control. Different processes of STAAD Pro like modeling, analysis, post analysis,
design can be accessed within these tab. To the right there are different window
available. Options for different tabs in page control are accessed in this area. By
default usually snap and grid settings is shown in the window.

GRID
Perpendicular construction lines which can be used as an aid to modeling the
structure is called GRID or grid lines. Grid lines are usually set to a default value by
the program when it starts, but of course we can change the density of grid lines in
the snap/grid settings window. It is recommended to draw only the required grid
lines to draw our structure to accurately model the structure without any confusion.
We can change the no: of grid lines in X, Y & Z directions and spacing in each axes.
We can have multiple grid systems in different names also.

GUI of STAAD

STAAD Pro has got a versatile Graphical User Interface (GUI) integrated into
the program for the easy modeling, post analysis and print options. The interface is
fully developed and well documented; various editing commands are available
within this GUI. Some of the features and commonly used editing commands are
discussed.
INSERT NODE: You can add nodes to the structure using this method.
ADD BEAM: Add beam method is used to draw beam in structure. Beam refers
not only beams, but all the linear structures (beams, columns, and truss members).
ADD SOLID: Used to draw solids in structure

ADD PLATES, SURFACES: Add laminar surfaces to the model.

TRANSLATIONAL REPEAT: Create an array in the specified axis at desired spacing
CIRCULAR REPEAT: Create a polar array around an axis at desired spacing.
MOVE: Move an entity from one place to other
ROTATE: Rotate an entity around an axis
MIRROR: Make a mirrored copy of a single or group objects.
SPLIT BEAM: This method can be used to split a beam into number of beams,
three options are there
-Add new point at a given distance or to divide the beam at a given proportion
-Add a midpoint to the beam
-Add a number of points

BIM

BIM: Building Information Modelling

*Note: Series of video from Autodesk website will be presented for added information
during the report.

What Is BIM?
BIM is an intelligent model-based process that provides insight to help you
plan, design, construct, and manage buildings and infrastructure.
Building Information modelling (BIM) is changing how buildings,
infrastructure, and utilities are planned, designed, built, and managed. BIM solutions

help turn information into insight and deliver business value at every step in the
process.

Benefits of BIM
1. The Business Value of BIM for Owners
Owners are greatest beneficiaries of BIM according to survey
2. Improve collaboration
Using a BIM technology platform it connects diversified project teams around
the world, enabling them to work together efficiently for improved project
delivery.
3. Boost quality, not cost
With an intelligent model that updates automatically as changes are made,
design teams can evaluate multiple alternatives to find the best design
without driving up project costs.
Industry solutions
BIM gets the right information to the right people at the right time, helping firms
innovate and compete. It delivers a workflow advantage for virtually any project.
1. Building design & engineering
Deliver higher-quality designs with BIM for building projects
In competitive environments, accurate designs that minimize change orders are key
to achieving business objectives. Building Information Modeling (BIM) for building
design and engineering helps reduce the risk of errors through integrated design,
engineering, and fabrication workflows.
2. Construction
Meet complex project requirements with BIM
Construction has become increasingly complex, with tighter schedules and budgets.
Use Building Information Modeling (BIM) software on-site and in the office to help
streamline workflows, maintain more accurate information, and keep BIM
construction projects moving forward more predictably.
3. Infrastructure
Streamline planning and design with BIM for infrastructure
Funding and public support for civil projects is critical to success.
Building
Information Modeling (BIM) solutions help turn information into insight to optimize
designs and help accelerate approvals, resulting in more effective and resilient
infrastructure.

4. Utilities
Deliver utility infrastructure on time and on budget
Utilities drive some of the largest construction budgets. Building Information
Modeling (BIM) solutions for utility infrastructure help control costs by reducing
rework, delays, and construction waste through improved coordination, design
accuracy, and stakeholder communications.

AUTODESK PRODUCTS/software used under each industry

1. BUILDING DESIGN & ENGINEERING
Autodesk BIM solutions for building design and engineering help improve building
performance, shorten project lifecycles, and connect project stakeholders through
integrated collaboration.
a. Building Design Suite
Interoperable BIM software for building design.
Building Design Suite is a portfolio of interoperable 3D building
design software. It supports Building Information Modeling- and
CAD-based workflows for architects, MEP and structural
engineers, and construction professionals.
b. Fabrication

CADmep
CAD software for detailing and fabrication of MEP systems.
Mechanical detailing software for MEP fabrication

Fabrication CADmep mechanical detailing software supports

fabrication workflows for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing
(MEP) contractors. Extend Revit models created with ITM content to detail
shop drawings and prepare systems for field installation.
c. BIM 360 Field
BIM 360 Field is field management software for 2D and 3D environments
that combines mobile technologies at the construction site with
cloud-based collaboration and reporting. BIM 360 Field puts
critical information into the hands of those in the field, helping to
improve quality, safety, and commissioning for construction and
capital projects of all types.

d. Revit
BIM tools for architectural design, MEP, and structural
engineering. Revit building design software is specifically built
for Building Information Modeling (BIM), including features for
architectural design, MEP and structural engineering, and
construction.

e. BIM 360 Glue

Cloud-based software for project coordination and collaboration.
BIM 360 Glue is a cloud-based BIM management and
collaboration product that connects your entire project team and
streamlines BIM project workflows from pre-construction through
construction execution. With virtually anywhere, anytime access to the most
recent project models and data throughout the project lifecycle, BIM 360 Glue
helps you review projects and resolve coordination issues faster, while
advancing the construction layout process
f.

Robot Structural Analysis Professional

Simulation and analysis tools for structural design.
Advanced structural engineering software
Robot Structural Analysis Professional structural software helps
engineers more quickly perform simulation, analysis, and codebased design for any type of structure

2. CONSTRUCTION
Autodesk design, simulation, visualization, and collaboration software helps
construction teams to get started or expand the power of BIM to minimize waste,
increase efficiency, and improve quality.
a. Building Design Suite
Integrated building design software featuring BIM and CAD tools.

b. BIM 360 Glue

Cloud-based software for project coordination and collaboration.

c. Infrastructure Design Suite

Civil design and construction software.

d. Navisworks
Project review software for construction.
e. BIM 360 Field
Cloud-based software for field management.

f.

Vault Professional
Data management software for organizing and tracking data.

3. INFRASTRUCTURE
Autodesk BIM solutions for infrastructure help you plan, design, build, and manage
throughout the project lifecycle. BIM solutions support complex infrastructure
challenges in highway, rail, airport, and other transportation projects.
a. Infrastructure Design Suite
Civil engineering software to help speed BIM transition.

b.

AutoCAD Utility Design

Model-based, rules-driven electric distribution design
software.

c.

Civil 3D
Design/documentation software for BIM workflows.

d.

InfraWorks 360
infrastructure design/planning solution with cloud
capabilities.

Civil

e. AutoCAD Map 3D
Model-based mapping software providing access to CAD and GIS
data.

4. UTILTITIIES
Autodesk BIM software for utility infrastructure design can help you get the right
information to the right people at the right time.

a. Infrastructure Design Suite

Civil engineering tools accelerate BIM transition.

b. AutoCAD Utility Design

Model-based, rules-driven electric distribution design software.

c. AutoCAD Civil 3D
Design and documentation software for BIM workflows.

d. Infrastructure Map Server

Web-based GIS mapping software.

e. AutoCAD Map 3D
Model-based mapping software providing access to CAD and GIS
data.

f.

InfraWorks 360
3D conceptual design software to communicate utility design
proposals.

Ten benefits of BIM

Better outcomes through collaboration
All project partners different design disciplines, the customer, contractor,
specialists and suppliers use a single, shared 3D model, cultivating collaborative
working relationships. This ensures everyone is focused on achieving best value,
from project inception to eventual decommissioning.
Enhanced performance
BIM makes possible swift and accurate comparison of different design options,
enabling development of more efficient, cost-effective and sustainable solutions.
Optimised solutions
Through deployment of new generative modelling technologies, solutions can be
cost-effectively optimised against agreed parameters.

Greater predictability
Projects can be visualised at an early stage, giving owners and operators a clear
idea of design intent and allowing them to modify the design to achieve the
outcomes they want. In advance of construction, BIM also enables the project team
to build the project in a virtual environment, rehearsing complex procedures,
optimising temporary works designs and planning procurement of materials,
equipment and manpower.
Faster project delivery
Time savings of up to 50% can be achieved by agreeing the design concept early in
project development to eliminate late stage design changes; using standard design
elements when practicable; resolving complex construction details before the
project goes on site; avoiding clashes; taking advantage of intelligence and
automation within the model to check design integrity and estimate quantities;
producing fabrication and construction drawings directly from the model; and using
model data to control construction equipment.
Reduced safety risk
Crowd behaviour and fire modelling capability enable designs to be optimised for
public safety. Asset managers can use the 3D model to enhance operational safety.
Contractors can minimise construction risks by reviewing complex details or
procedures before going on site.

Fits first time

Integrating multidisciplinary design inputs using a single 3D model allows interface
issues to be identified and resolved in advance of construction, eliminating the cost
and time impacts of redesign. The model also enables new and existing assets to be
integrated seamlessly.
Reduced waste
Exact quantity take-offs mean that materials are not over-ordered. Precise
programme scheduling enables just-in-time delivery of materials and equipment,
reducing potential for damage. Use of the BIM model for automated fabrication of
equipment and components enables more efficient materials handling and waste
recovery.
Whole life asset management
BIM models contain product information that assists with commissioning, operation
and maintenance activities for example sequences for start-up and shut-down,

interactive 3D diagrams showing how to take apart and reassemble items of

equipment, and specifications allowing replacement parts to be ordered.
Continual improvement
Members of the project team can feed back information about the performance of
processes and items of equipment, driving improvements on subsequent projects.

AUTOCAD
AutoCAD is a commercial software application for 2D
and 3D computer-aided design (CAD) and drafting
available since 1982 as a desktop application and
since 2010 as a mobile web- and cloud-based app
marketed as AutoCAD 360.

Developed and marketed by Autodesk, Inc., AutoCAD

was first released in December 1982, running on
microcomputers with internal graphics controllers.
Prior to the introduction of AutoCAD, most commercial
CAD programs ran on mainframe computers or
minicomputers, with each CAD operator (user) working
at a separate graphics terminal.
AutoCAD is used across a wide range of industries, by architects, project managers,
engineers, graphic designers, and other professionals. It is a computer-aided
drafting software program used for creating blueprints for buildings, bridges and
computer chips. It is supported by 750 training centers worldwide as of 1994.
As Autodesk's flagship product, by March 1986 AutoCAD had become the most
ubiquitous CAD program worldwide. As of 2015, AutoCAD is in its thirtieth
generation, and collectively with all its variants, continues to be the most widely
used CAD program throughout most of the world.

Commands:
Drawing Commands allow user to create objects
Line
Arc
Polygon
Double Line
Spline
Text
Point
Ellipse
Hatch
Circle
Rectangle

Editing Commands allow user to modify drawings

Inquiry Commands designed to list the database records for selected
objects and calculate distances, areas, and perimeters

Erase
Undo
Move
Copy
Mirror

Rotate
Fillet
Chamfer
Trim
Extend

Array
Scale
List/Properties
Distance
Area

Display Control Commands used to control how a drawing is displayed on

screen
Zoom
View
Pan
Redraw/Regenerate

Dimensioning Commands show lengths, distances, and angles between

features on the objects
Linear
Angular
Diameter
Radius
Leader

Interface:

http://autocadtutorial.yolasite.com/resources/L1.JPG?
timestamp=1304248847512&bmi_orig_img=1

Screenshots:

http://www.jtbworld.com/images/AutoCAD2016/AutoCAD_2016.png

http://www.mycomputersmith.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/caddwg3.jpg

http://i.ytimg.com/vi/IevHz_t8zIA/maxresdefault.jpg

MICROSOFT PROJECT

Microsoft Project is a powerful project management tool used in

various industries to manage projects by monitoring the status of the task,
assigned resources, schedule and cost variances. It is a powerful tool used for
managing a project. It is essentially a database with charting tools.

It stores 3 types of information:

Task information (Start date, end date, baseline, cost,

relationship to other task etc)

Resource Information (name, availability, cost etc)

Assignment that connects tasks with resources

-The main modules of Microsoft Project include project work and project
teams, schedules and finances. Microsoft Project is designed to help users set
realistic goals for project teams and customers by creating schedules,
distributing resources and managing budgets.
-The Project Guide helps users create projects, track tasks, and report results.
-The software helps contractors gain control over their resources and finances
by simplifying the -assignment of resources to tasks and budgets to projects.
-Microsoft Project also comes with a customizable wizard that walks users
through the process of project creation, from assigning their tasks and
resources to reporting the final results.
History
'Project' was an MS-DOS software application originally written in Microsoft 'C'
(and some assembly) language for the IBM PC. The idea originated from the
vision of Ron Bredehoeft, a former IBM S/E and PC-enthusiast in the early

1980s. This original vision was simple: express the recipe and all preparation
for a breakfast of eggs in project management terms.

Mr. Bredehoeft formed Microsoft Application Services (MAS) during the birth
of the application and the company later entered an OEM agreement with
Microsoft Corporation. Alan M. Boyd, Microsoft's Manager of Product
Development, introduced the application as an internal tool to help manage
the huge number of software projects that were in development at any time
inside the company. Boyd wrote the specification and engaged a local Seattle
company to develop the prototype.
The first commercial version of Project was released for DOS in 1984.
Microsoft bought all rights to the software in 1985 and released version 2.
Version 3 for DOS was released in 1986. Version 4 for DOS was the final DOS
version, released in 1986. The first Windows version was released in 1990,
and was labelled version 1 for Windows.
Features
There are six basic steps to follow when planning a project:
(1) Define a project (2) Plan project activities (3) Plan for and gather
resources (4) Plan project cost
(5) Plan security and communication.
The MS Project lets the project managers to:

Work with Tasks

Work with Resources and Costs

View the Project

Track Progress

Balance the Project

Project creates budgets based on assignment work and resource rates. As
resources are assigned to tasks and assignment work estimated, the program
calculates the cost, equal to the work times the rate, which rolls up to the
task level and then to any summary tasks and finally to the project level.
Resource definitions (people, equipment and materials) can be shared
between projects using a shared resource pool. Each resource can have its
own calendar, which defines what days and shifts a resource is available.
Resource rates are used to calculate resource assignment costs which are
rolled up and summarized at the resource level. Each resource can be
assigned to multiple tasks in multiple plans and each task can be assigned
multiple resources, and the application schedules task work based on the
resource availability as defined in the resource calendars.
All resources can be defined in label without limit. Therefore it cannot
determine how many finished products can be produced with a given amount

of raw materials. This makes Microsoft Project unsuitable for solving problems
of available materials constrained production. Additional software is
necessary to manage a complex facility that produces physical goods.

Microsoft Project creates critical path schedules, although critical chain thirdparty add-ons. Schedules can be resource levelled. The chain is visualised in
a Gantt chart. Resource definitions (people, equipment and materials) can be
shared between projects using a shared resource pool. Each resource can
have its own calendar which defines what days and shifts a resource is
available. Resource rates are used to calculate resource assignment costs
which are rolled up and summarised the resource level.
Each resource can be assigned to multiple tasks in multiple plans and each
task can be assigned multiple resources. Microsoft Project schedules task
work based on the resource availability as defined in the resource calendars.
All resources can be defined in an enterprise resource pool.
Microsoft Project creates budgets based on assignment work and resource
rates. As resources are assigned to tasks and assignment work estimated,
Microsoft Project calculates the cost equals the work times the rate. This rolls
up to the task level, then to any summary tasks and finally to the project
level.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Microsoft Project

Advantages
Maturity:
Microsoft Project is a very mature Project Management tool. MS Project was
first released in 1984 and over the next 26 years, Microsoft has listened to
the increasing number of Project Managers adopting this tool, and
added/enhanced a lot of features that are now vital for managing projects.
Almost any chart the Project Manager can think of is now available in MS
Project. (At the time of writing this article, the current version is MS Project
2007).

Support and Reliability:

Contrary to the myriad of the other Project Management tools available on
the market, Microsoft Project is developed by the largest and most reputable
software company in the world, which offers reliable support of this product.
Additionally, the success of MS Project has spurred the growth of third party
support and training services offered for this product.


Easy Integration with other Microsoft Products:
MS Project offers integration with other MS Products that are highly popular,
such as MS Word, MS Excel, and MS Outlook.

Desktop Application:
MS Project is a desktop application, which means the Project Manager can
work on the project schedule even if there is no Internet connection.
Disadvantages
Steep Learning Curve: MS Project is a soft-ware that needs some
considerable training and experience to get know how to use it. This is a
significant setback for the product as there are lots of Project Managers out
there who are not technical, and may experience a hard time trying to learn
MS Project.

Generic Focus: MS Project does not focus on any particular industry (though
some say its slightly more inclined to Software Project Management), this
results in Project Managers using a tool that is not tailored to their needs.

No collaboration: This is a major drawback in MS Project because of the

importance of communication in Project Management. Online collaboration
nowadays is indispensable for easy and accessible updates by the team
members/the Project Manager/the stakeholders on the project. The complete
absence of real collaboration in MS Project makes it outdated by the
standards of todays connected world. To make things worse, MS Project does
not even offer integration with third party collaboration tools, which leaves
Project Managers with no choice then to use a separate collaboration
platform to ease the communication flow on the project. This adds an
unnecessary overhead to the workload of the Project Manager.

Desktop, Offline Application: Although this one was mentioned as an

advantage, it is also a huge disadvantage. Using a desktop application means
that the project data file (usually the one with the .mpp extension) is stored
locally. This leaves the ever-busy Project Manager with the responsibility of
backing up this file always (not doing so may risk losing all the project plan in
the blink of an eye in case the Project Managers PC fails). Additionally, quite
often multiple people (e.g. the Project Manager, some team members, and
some stakeholders) will have different copies of the MS Project file which are
not in sync, leading to inconsistency issues (MS Excel has also the same issue
when used as a Project Management tool). The Project Manager will be forced
to email the project file to everyone involved every time a change is made.

Compatibility Issues: MS Project files are saved in a proprietary format,

meaning they wont run on any other PC unless that PC has also (usually the
same or a later version of) MS Project installed. This makes the life of the
Project Manager harder as he has to make sure that everyone (including the
stakeholders, the client, and the team members) receiving a copy of the .mpp
has to have MS Project installed on his PC. An alternative way is to send the
Project Plan as an image or a pdf file, but of course, both of these options are
not as good as sending the real project plan.

Primavera by Oracle

Primavera is a project management

software package that is used for managing
and controlling project related activities.
Resources representing labour, materials
and equipment are used to track time and
costs for the project.

Primavera Systems Inc. provides project and program management software

for the Architecture, Engineering and Construction industry. Focused on
project portfolio management, or PPM, Primavera's solutions let users
measure progress, assure governance, improve team collaboration and
prioritize project investments and resources.
Primavera's software packages include P6, Prosight, Contract Manager, Cost
Manager, Pertmaster, SureTrak, Evolve and Inspire. The newest addition to
the suite of project management solutions is Primavera P6, which is an
integrated PPM (project portfolio management) solution that provides a realtime view of portfolio performance. P6 also offers what-if scenario modeling,
tabular scorecards and capacity analysis.

Historical Background
Founded by Les Seskin, Dick Faris and Joel Koppelman
Launched in 1983 by Primavera Systems Inc.
Acquired by Oracle Corporation in 2008

Primavera P6

The newest addition to the suite of project management solutions is

Primavera P6, which is an integrated PPM (project portfolio management)
solution that provides a real-time view of portfolio performance. Project
Portfolio Management (PPM) is the centralized management of the processes,
methods,
and
technologies
used
by project
managers and project

management offices (PMOs) to analyze and collectively manage current or

proposed projects based on numerous key characteristics.

Benefits of Primavera p6:

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.

Reduced risk and cost of schedule overrun.

It helps easily plan and manage project activities.
It optimizes management of all resources.
It gives clear visibility of whats going on in the project.
It allows quick and easy forecasting of WBSs, activities or projects.
You can keep track of progress and view past period performance for
reporting purposes.
7. Use of Primavera P6 by companies worldwide allows better communication
between each other. Furthermore creating, management, and understanding
of schedule, costs information becomes simpler.
8. Helps you easily breakdown projects and activities structure.
9. It allows easy collaboration between all projects users

BIBLIOGRAPHY AND REFERENCES:

Kumar, Navin (2013, April 19). Retrieved from A1 MS Word Tutorials:

http://www.1wordtut.com/2013/04/ms-word-2007-interface.html

Arthur, Luke. Retrieved from What Are the Advantages of Microsoft Word?:

http://www.ehow.com/info_8320911_advantages-microsoft-word.html

McDonough, Michele (2009, September 3). Retrieved from The History of Microsoft
Word: http://www.brighthub.com/computing/windows-

platform/articles/46978.aspx
Project 2013 Quick Reference Guide
http://whatis.techtarget.com/definition/Microsoft-Project-Microsoft-OfficeProject
http://www.slideshare.net/vazi/nrclc-microsoft-project-2010?qid=524fe29c26f1-4a9b-8923-59031a447c81&v=qf1&b=&from_search=2
https://products.office.com/en-us/Project/project-standard-desktop-software
http://www.projectmanagementlearning.com/what-are-the-advantages-anddisadvantages-of-microsoft-project.html
Wikipedia

http://www.autodesk.com/solutions/building-information-modeling/overview
Autodesk Building Industry Solutions pdf
https://www.mottmac.com/article/2385/building-information-modelling-bim
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AutoCAD
http://www.g-w.com/pdf/sampchap/9781590709030_ch04.pdf

http://www.oracle.com/us/products/applications/primavera/primaveraportfolio-management-ds-279725.pdf
http://www.oracle.com/us/products/applications/primavera/portfoliomanagement/overview/index.html
http://www.pinnaclemanagement.com/primavera-prosight/166
http://whatis.techtarget.com/definition/Primavera