How to Fix Tasks Counted Twice in Microsoft Project
Question details
The user needs to resolve an issue where tasks are being double-counted in a Microsoft Project master file, leading to false resource overallocations.
- Product
- Microsoft Project
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Managing tasks and resources across multiple projects using a shared resource pool and master project file.
- Observed behavior
- Tasks are double-counted in the master project because the same project file is linked to the shared resource pool more than once.
Ensure you have full access to both the master project file and the shared resource pool file, and that no other users are currently editing the resource pool.
Break the Duplicate Link in the Resource Pool
Identify and remove redundant project connections within the shared resource pool to eliminate double-counting of tasks and resolve false overallocations.
This issue typically occurs when a project file is moved to a new folder, renamed, or deleted without first disconnecting it from the shared resource pool. Microsoft Project ends up reading the old and new file pathways as two distinct projects.
Launch Microsoft Project and open the shared resource pool file where the overallocations are occurring.
Navigate to the 'Resource' tab on the top ribbon, click on 'Resource Pool' in the Assignments group, and select 'Share Resources' from the dropdown menu.
In the Share Resources dialog box, review the list of all connected projects. Look for the specific project name that appears twice.
Select the duplicate or outdated project entry from the list and click the 'Break Link' button to remove the connection.
Manage Projects Efficiently with WPS Office
While Microsoft Project is a specialized tool, WPS Office serves as a fantastic free, lightweight, and easy-to-use alternative for general project management. Its Spreadsheet application supports advanced formatting and Gantt chart templates, offering high compatibility with Microsoft Office formats to ensure seamless migration and everyday task tracking.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Visit the official WPS website to download the free installation package for your operating system.
- 2. Install and Launch: Follow the on-screen instructions to install the suite, then open WPS Spreadsheet.
- 3. Create a Project Tracker: Use a built-in project management template or create a custom task list to track your progress effortlessly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are my resources showing as overallocated in Microsoft Project?
Resource overallocation happens when a resource is assigned to more tasks than their available working hours allow. However, it can also be a false positive caused by double-counted tasks if a project is linked to the shared resource pool multiple times.
How do I correctly move a project file connected to a resource pool?
Before moving or renaming a project file, open it and navigate to Resource > Resource Pool > Share Resources. Select 'Use own resources' to safely disconnect it. Once disconnected, you can move or rename the file, and then reconnect it to the pool afterward.
What happens when I break a link in the resource pool?
Breaking a link removes the connection between the specific project and the shared resource pool. The project will revert to using its own local resources, and its tasks will no longer draw from or impact the availability of the shared resources in the pool.
