How to Import Custom Fields from Project Desktop to Project for the Web
Question details
The user needs to know how to import and display custom fields from Project Desktop when moving a project to Project for the web.

- Product
- Microsoft Project
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Migrating project data from Project Desktop to Project for the web while retaining custom columns.
- Observed behavior
- Custom columns are successfully imported but remain hidden by default in Project for the web, requiring manual steps to unhide and display them.
Ensure you have successfully imported your initial project file from Project Desktop to Project for the web before attempting to display the hidden custom fields.
Display Imported Custom Fields in Project for the Web
Use the Add column feature to unhide and display supported custom fields that were imported from Project Desktop.
When you import a project from Project Desktop to Project for the web, your custom data is transferred but remains visually hidden by default to keep the interface uncluttered. You can easily unhide them using the built-in column manager.
Navigate to Project for the web and open the project file you recently imported from Project Desktop.
In the main project grid view, scroll to the far right of your existing columns and click on the 'Add column' header.
Look for the specific names of your imported custom fields in the dropdown list. Click on each field to add it to your current view.

Manage Your Projects Effectively with WPS Office
While you migrate your Microsoft Project files, consider streamlining your daily task tracking and data management with WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, highly compatible, and free alternative to standard Microsoft Office suites.
- 1. Open WPS Spreadsheet: Launch WPS Office on your computer and open the Spreadsheet application.
- 2. Search for Project Templates: Click on 'New' and type 'Project Management' or 'Gantt Chart' into the template search bar.
- 3. Customize your columns: Download a free project template and easily add custom columns like Text, Date, or Number to track your project's specific metrics.

Frequently Asked Questions
Why are my custom fields not visible after importing to Project for the web?
By default, Project for the web hides imported custom fields to maintain a clean and simplified interface. You must manually display them by clicking the 'Add column' header and selecting your specific fields from the list.
What custom field types from Project Desktop are supported in Project for the web?
Currently, you can successfully import Custom Flag, Text, Lookup Table, and Number fields. These specific types will transfer to the web version without losing their associated data.
Will I lose data in unsupported custom fields during the import process?
Yes, if you use custom field types outside of the supported ones (such as formulas or specific enterprise fields), their data will not be transferred or accessible in Project for the web.
Can I create new custom fields directly in Project for the web?
Yes. You can create brand new custom fields natively in the Project for the web interface by clicking the 'Add column' header and choosing 'New field' to define the data type.




