What's the Difference Between MS Project Online and MS Project Desktop Versions?

Posted on 08/25/2023 by Niko Venev

With so many Microsoft Project products available, it's easy to become confused when trying to find the right solution for your project management needs. In order to successfully perform project management with the software, however, it's important to understand the differences between each version of the program.


       

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What Are the Different Versions of Microsoft Project?

A handful of different Microsoft Project applications are available as both cloud-based and on-premises solutions.

For online versions of the software what the different versions of Microsoft Project are capable of will depend on your subscription. Subscription levels include:

  • Project Plan 1
  • Project Plan 3
  • Project Plan 5

With these subscriptions, you'll be able to use different Microsoft Project versions, including:

  • Project Online
  • Project Online desktop client
  • Project for the Web

Generally speaking, Project Plan 1 subscriptions offer the least level of functionality, while Project Plan 5 subscriptions offer the most. Features and functionality can vary between product versions. For example, as a Project Plan 5 subscriber, you may have access to more advanced features if you're using Project Online rather than Project for the Web.

When comparing MS Project Web vs. desktop client versions, consider that Project for the Web offers all three subscription levels, while the Project Online desktop client does not offer Plan 1, and its Plan 3 and Plan 5 offerings only have a few features. The Project Online desktop client is the least feature-rich of the Microsoft Project products available.

For the professional who wants a local software alternative to Microsoft's cloud offerings, Microsoft Project's on-premises solutions are:

  • Project Standard
  • Project Professional
  • Project Server

Project Server allows employees to work within a highly secure environment and integrate its functions with a company's preexisting systems. It's the MS Project product that business owners often choose if they value resource management tools and customization options.

If you're trying to decide on Microsoft Project desktop vs. online, consider that while Project Server offers tight local security, staff who use Project Online are assured access to projects from remote, nationwide locations and through multiple devices. Since Project Online is scalable, it can be perfect for businesses with expansion plans. In addition, Project Online's basic interface makes it easier for beginners to understand.

 

What Is the Difference Between MS Project Online and MS Project's Other Versions?

The simplest and most obvious difference between MS Project Online and many of the software's other versions comes down to portability and connectivity. If you're using a desktop version of Microsoft Project, you won't be able to access it from multiple devices and locations. You won't have that issue with Project for the Web, but you will find that it doesn't have any many features as Project Online does.

When comparing MS Project Web vs. desktop options, you must consider your working environment and the types of projects you most commonly handle. If you work in an office setting, an on-premises solution may be a better choice, especially if you want the control that Project Server can offer. But if you're a business owner with a remote or hybrid workforce, using Microsoft Project Online can ensure that your staff has round-the-clock access to their work.

 

Microsoft Project Desktop vs. Online Cost Considerations

The expenses associated with using and maintaining Microsoft Project can be a large concern for business owners. The cost of licensing the desktop versions can range from $680 to more than $1,100 per user, and that's a monthly cost. That can really add up! If you don't have that kind of budget, you may have to go with Project Online, which is a lot cheaper. Project Online is also a good choice if your business lacks a dedicated IT department that can provide tech support if you need it.

 

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At Certstaffix Training, we know that Microsoft Project can be one of the most challenging pieces of software to learn, and that's why we've developed hands-on MS Project classes taught by live instructors who can walk you through it and provide real-time feedback. Sign up today and see how easy it can be to master any version of MS Project!

 




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