Importing from Excel without a Template (Project 2003)

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I am trying to import data from an Excel spreadsheet into project to create a task list only. I go through the motions of creating a map template for this spread sheet but I keep getting it wrong. I get an error message..
An unexpected error occurred during command execution.
Try the following:
* Verify that all the argument names and values are correct and are of the correct type.
I have tried changing the type of the fields hit and miss with no success.
If anyone has expertise in this process I would really like the help! I will attach a sample of the spreadsheet if anyone wants to tackle it.

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HI,

I would just copy and paste the Task name column from your Excel spreadsheet. You don’t have any values for predecessors, or duration. Projects defaults will probably let you copy and paste the start dates, but will automatically apply constraits to every task in the list. I think if you had a value for duration and predecessors you would have a successful import. If you are using hard dates for start and finish you are defeating the purpose of the software. Project is designed to dynamically reflect changes to a project plan and cascade those changes to all tasks the change will affect.

Carla

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There are durations that I would like to go as well, listed in the estimated labor hours column. Also, I was not trying to import the finish dates, only the start dates. See my reply below to another post.
Thank you for your reply!

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Which fields are you trying to import?

I assume you are creating the Task Name, Start, and Finish dates. To use the map, you will need to set the merge key. This step is typically forgotten when importing data. Set the merge key on the Name. Also try appending the data to the current project. I was able to load the data from the excel spreadsheet once the merge key was set.

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All fields except the completion date, WO status, & delay code.
I thought that to merge you had to have an existing project?

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