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How to Export or Download an MPP File from Project for the Web
Question details
The user needs to share a project created in Project for the web as a standard Microsoft Project (.mpp) file, but only sees an option to export to Excel.
- Product
- Microsoft Project for the web
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Attempting to export or save a project timeline and task list from the web application to a local .mpp file for sharing.
- Observed behavior
- The platform currently only offers an 'Export to Excel' function, completely lacking a native option to download or save the project as an MPP file.
Verify whether you are using 'Project for the web' (hosted at project.microsoft.com) or 'Project Online', as their export capabilities and supported file formats differ significantly.
Export Project Data to Excel
Since Project for the web does not natively support MPP file exports, the most effective workaround is to export your project data to an Excel file for sharing or reporting.
Project for the web is a modernized, cloud-based service distinct from the traditional Microsoft Project desktop app. Because of its cloud-native architecture, Microsoft does not currently provide a feature to save or export projects back into the legacy .mpp file format.
Navigate to project.microsoft.com and open the specific project you want to share with your team or stakeholders.
Locate and click on the three dots (...) indicating the 'More actions' menu in the top right corner of the project view screen.
Select 'Export to Excel' from the dropdown menu. The system will automatically generate and download an .xlsx file containing your project tasks, start dates, and resources.
Recreate the Project in the Desktop App
If your stakeholders strictly require a standard .mpp file format, you will need to transfer your exported data into the Microsoft Project desktop application.
Manage Your Exported Project Data with WPS Office
Since Project for the web only exports to Excel, you can use WPS Office to easily open, edit, and share these project spreadsheets for free. WPS Office is a lightweight, highly compatible alternative to Microsoft Office that perfectly handles complex datasets and includes built-in templates for Gantt charts and project management.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS Office website and download the free installation package for your operating system.
- 2. Open WPS Spreadsheet: Launch WPS Office and open the Spreadsheets module.
- 3. Edit your project file: Open the .xlsx file you exported from Project for the web to instantly view, format, and share your project timeline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is there no MPP export option in Project for the web?
Project for the web is a simplified, cloud-native project management tool built on the Microsoft Power Platform. It is architecturally separate from the traditional Project desktop app and does not currently support exporting to the legacy .mpp file format.
Can I import an MPP file into Project for the web?
Yes, you can import an existing .mpp file from your desktop into Project for the web to create a new project. However, once the project is imported and modified online, you cannot export it back to an .mpp file.
Are Project for the web and Project Online the same thing?
No, they are distinct services. Project Online is a legacy product that provides advanced portfolio management and deep SharePoint integration, whereas Project for the web is a modern, streamlined task management tool.
How can I share my Project for the web timeline with external clients?
Since you cannot send an MPP file, you can either export your project to an Excel spreadsheet and share that file, or grant external clients guest access via Microsoft 365 Groups (if permitted by your organization's IT policies).
