How to Remove Template Name from File Properties in Microsoft Project
Question details
The user needs to remove or edit the template name that persistently displays in the file properties of a Microsoft Project document.
- Product
- Microsoft Project
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Saving an MPP or MPT file with a new name and in a new folder to create a new project.
- Observed behavior
- The file properties continue to display the original template name, and the field is locked or uneditable, even in newer builds like version 2211.
Ensure you know whether your current file is saved as an MPP (Project) or MPT (Template) file, and check your specific Microsoft Project version number.
Bypass Locked Metadata by Creating a Blank Project
Since modern versions of Microsoft Project often lock inherited template names in the document metadata, the most effective workaround is transferring your data to a new blank file.
When a project is created from an MPT template, the template name is permanently etched into the file's metadata to track its origin. In newer builds (such as version 2211 Click-to-Run), there is often no supported user interface option to clear this inherited field directly from the properties menu.
Open your current MPP or MPT file in Microsoft Project. Navigate to the 'File' menu, click on 'Info', and select 'Project Information' followed by 'Advanced Properties'.
In the Advanced Properties dialog box, go to the 'Summary' tab and check if the Template field can be highlighted and deleted. If it deletes successfully, save the file.
If the field is locked and cannot be edited, go to 'File' > 'New' and select 'Blank Project'.
Manually copy your task lists, resources, and timelines from the original file into the newly created blank project. Save this new file with your desired name to generate fresh metadata without template inheritance.
Manage Your Office Documents Effectively with WPS Office
While Microsoft Project handles complex project management, WPS Office is the perfect lightweight alternative for managing your daily reports, spreadsheets, and presentations without frustrating metadata lock-in issues.
- 1. Download the software: Visit the official WPS Office website and download the free installation package for your operating system.
- 2. Install WPS Office: Run the downloaded installer and follow the simple on-screen instructions to set up the software.
- 3. Open and manage files: Launch WPS Office and open your existing Office documents to experience seamless compatibility and intuitive document property management.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my MPP file still show the old MPT template name?
When you create a project from an MPT template, Microsoft Project embeds the original template's name into the document's metadata to track its origin. Saving the file with a new name does not automatically overwrite this specific internal property.
Can I edit the template name in Project version 2211?
In version 2211 and several other modern builds, there is typically no supported user interface option to clear or edit the inherited template name directly. Users often have to transfer their data to a completely new blank project.
How do I remove hidden metadata from an MS Project file?
You can generally remove hidden personal information by navigating to 'File' > 'Info', selecting 'Check for Issues', and running the 'Inspect Document' tool. However, this may not always clear locked template names.
