CPM Software Overview

CPM Software Overview

As of March 2024:

P6 Vs MS Project Vs Asta

The three primary scheduling and control software packages used in the building, construction, and resources industries are Microsoft Project, Oracle Primavera P6, and Asta Powerproject (Elecosoft). Each of these software packages has distinct origins, architectures, and industry applications, offering various advantages and facing certain disadvantages within their operational contexts.

Origins

Microsoft Project was developed in the US in 1984, initially aimed at managing software development projects. Its functionality has evolved over time, with significant features like Cost Resources and Calendar Exceptions being added.

Oracle Primavera P6 originated as Eagle Ray in the 1990s, later acquired by Primavera Systems. It was designed for software and business development projects and has since become a staple in more extensive project management applications.

Asta Powerproject was developed in the early 1980s in the UK, with a strong focus on the building and construction industries. It incorporates features specifically tailored to these sectors.

Architecture

Microsoft Project offers three versions: Standard (desktop for standalone files), Professional (desktop for server or Microsoft Project Server files), and Web App (browser-based, for Microsoft Project Server files). The Standard version is most commonly used by building and construction companies.

Oracle Primavera P6 operates projects from a database rather than single project files, supporting Oracle and Microsoft SQL databases. It comes in Professional Project Management (PPM) and Enterprise Project Portfolio Management (EPPM) database types, with Windows and Web Client applications for interfacing.

Asta Powerproject provides flexibility in operation, allowing for single or multiple project files, user concurrency, and database integration. It is favored for its concurrent licenses and free reader option, making it cost-effective.

Industry Usage

Microsoft Project is widely used by residential builders, architects, quantity surveyors, and smaller civil construction companies. It’s appreciated for its simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and familiarity among users, though it is often not updated with actual dates for revised end dates.

Oracle Primavera P6 is preferred for large commercial building projects, medium to large civil construction firms, and almost all resource companies in mining, oil, and gas industries. Its structured approach to schedule updates and extensive data handling capabilities make it suitable for large-scale projects.

Asta Powerproject has a smaller market penetration in Australia but is valued by large commercial construction companies and builder developers for its construction-specific functionality and flexible licensing.

Advantages

Microsoft Project is known for its ease of use, widespread familiarity, cost-effectiveness, and simple deployment within IT infrastructures.

Oracle Primavera P6 excels in handling large project data, enforcing proper schedule updates, and providing robust baseline and forecasting features.

Asta Powerproject offers extensive scheduling options, construction-specific functions, and cost advantages through concurrent licensing and a free reader.

Disadvantages

Microsoft Project can be challenging to manage in complex scenarios due to its template issues, limited relationship modeling, and difficulties in handling multiple resources and calendars.

Oracle Primavera P6 may present graphical limitations and requires careful management of planned dates and baseline data to avoid confusion.

Asta Powerproject faces challenges with market penetration and operator availability,, alongside a steep learning curve due to its advanced features.

In summary, these three scheduling and control software packages offer a range of tools tailored to the diverse needs of various industries. Microsoft Project is suited for smaller projects and users seeking simplicity and affordability. Oracle Primavera P6 caters to large-scale projects requiring detailed schedule management and data handling. Asta Powerproject is recognized for its construction-specific functionalities and flexible licensing, appealing to companies not needing to exchange schedule files frequently.