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How to Create a Single Dashboard for Multiple Projects in Excel

Olivia Miller Oct 14, 2026 868 views

Question details

The user wants to combine information from multiple ongoing projects into a single, easy-to-read dashboard or spreadsheet to track key dates, pipeline status, and progress.

How to Create a Single Dashboard for Multiple Projects

Product: Spreadsheet
Device & OS: Windows PC
Scenario: Managing various projects and needing a centralized view to track design dates, submissions, approvals, and completions without relying on complex project management software.
Observed behavior: Currently lacking a unified view of all project pipelines; seeking a straightforward method to build a master dashboard or table to summarize all necessary project tracking fields in one place.

Before you start

Gather all your individual project data, including key milestones, baseline dates, current statuses, and notes, before attempting to build your master dashboard.

Solution 1Recommended

Create a Master Project Tracker using a Spreadsheet

The most accessible way for a team to track multiple projects is by using a spreadsheet table, which requires no specialized project management software and is easy to customize.

If your team doesn't currently use dedicated project management software, creating a comprehensive table in Excel or WPS Spreadsheet is a highly effective alternative. Spreadsheets allow you to quickly define custom fields, filter views, and build visual dashboards.

Set up your tracking columns

Open a new spreadsheet and create headers for your required fields, such as Project Name, Design Dates, Submission Dates, Approvals, Jobsite Start Dates, Completion Dates, and Notes.

Format as a Table

Select your headers and data range, then format it as a Table. This enables easy filtering, sorting, and structured referencing as your list of projects grows.

Build a summary dashboard

Create a separate worksheet named 'Dashboard'. Use PivotTables and PivotCharts connected to your main project table to visually summarize pipeline statuses, upcoming deadlines, and overall progress.

Create a Master Project Tracker using a Spreadsheet

Template Advantage: Using a pre-built project tracker template can save you time formatting and setting up complex formulas for date tracking.

Solution 2

Use a Static Master File in Microsoft Project

If you have access to Microsoft Project, you can consolidate individual project files into a master project file for a comprehensive overview.

Build Your Project Dashboard Easily with WPS Spreadsheet

WPS Office provides a powerful, free Spreadsheet application that makes tracking multiple projects a breeze. With robust data visualization tools and abundant templates, you can create dynamic project dashboards to track milestones and deadlines across all your teams.

1. Open WPS Spreadsheet: Launch WPS Office and click on 'Spreadsheet' to create a new blank workbook or browse the template library.
2. Search for a Project Tracker Template: In the template library, search for 'Project Tracker' or 'Dashboard' to instantly load a pre-formatted multiple-project tracker.
3. Enter Project Milestones: Input your specific project milestones, such as design dates, submissions, and approvals, into the designated columns.
4. Visualize with PivotTables: Go to the 'Insert' tab and add PivotTables or charts to summarize your data, giving you a high-level view of all ongoing projects at a glance.

Fully compatible with Microsoft Excel formats (.xlsx, .xls) for seamless team collaboration.Built-in diverse chart types and PivotTable features for rich, easy-to-read dashboards.Lightweight, fast, and free alternative to complex project management software.Access to abundant free templates for project management, Gantt charts, and pipeline tracking.

microsoft office alternative - wps office

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to track multiple projects without specialized software?

A well-structured spreadsheet is typically the most effective and accessible solution. By setting up columns for key milestones and utilizing formatting, PivotTables, and basic charts, you can easily monitor multiple projects in a single, customizable dashboard.

Why should I use a static master file instead of linked subprojects in Microsoft Project?

Using a static master file by copying subproject data into one file creates a reliable snapshot of your portfolio. It helps avoid file corruption, slow loading times, and access issues that frequently occur with complex, actively linked file structures.

Is there a character limit for the Notes field in project management reports?

Yes, in standard Microsoft Project reports and views, the Notes field typically displays a maximum of 255 characters. For more detailed notes, it is recommended to export your project data to a spreadsheet application where text limits are significantly larger.

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