Excel is a software filled with functions that can be harnessed for multiple uses, including project management. When used effectively, it can actually be extremely convenient in helping you solve everyday tasks.
Here are 5 project management tips to remember:
1. Gantt Charts
When preparing gantt charts to track project plans, you can use conditional formatting and formulas to do so. Gantt charts require preparation and maintenance to ensure that it is accurate and productive. Online resources contain free templates that you can use for your Gantt chart preparation. You can also use things like planned vs actual comparison for a closer study, activity grouping and more!
2. Dashboards
Dashboards can be created for easy management of data. They can be really helpful, especially when it comes to tracking and managing data in Excel for different projects. With separate dashboards focused on different tracking methods, you can easily track, analyse data and make decisions from then. Making use of excel charts, simply set up conditional formatting and update your project status report in your excel file. Do be sure to plan and collect information before you start creating dashboards. You can also source online for dashboard templates to either download or reference to get a feel of what you need and want.
3. Report and updates
When it comes to project management, regular updates and reports are necessary in order to keep track of the progress. Imagine yourself in the position of an investor or a superior- what would you like to know about the project? What are some concerns you would have? Are there any factors to be concerned about? What is the overall progress? Is there any specific activity to pay attention to? How are the budgeting and resources going? All these are essential questions to report, so make sure that you have all the relevant information prepared beforehand.
4. Tracking
Tracking things using Excel can be easily accomplished. You can do so by creating a template and sharing it with your partners. There are actually a lot of things that can be tracked so if you require, you can do so- for example, tracking timesheets, to do lists, scope items and more! Make sure you come back to it ever so often to ensure that details are accurate and that you are making progress with your project.
5. Charts
Charts are a fun and visually engaging method of helping you keep on top of your project by being able to see the progress it is making and the direction is it headed. For project management, you can use a vast assortment of charts like Burn down charts, resource loading charts, milestone charts, open vs close charts and more! This way, you will be able to translate data into graphs for easy deciphering and easy decision making.
These are just 5 tips on how to begin your project management. As time goes on, you may find yourself requiring more. Take some time out of your daily routine to pay attention to details and rewards will surely come into fruition.
