Abstract:
A project management system and method are provided wherein projects can be managed easily and with minimal manual data entry. Project management software, embodying the project management system of the present invention, can run on a computer network or user workstation, without requiring a dedicated host server. The project management system of the present invention provides at least one graphical interface, to permit a user to easily create and/or edit a project, tasks, subprojects and milestones, using the mouse or other pointer device. A resource window can be provided, conveniently and consistently located in all main views of the system, to assist the user in efficiently operating the project management system. Further, projects can be automatically updated without repetitive data entry, using data entered once by the user performing a task.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION  
       [0001]     The present application claims priority from co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/650,806, filed on Jan. 8, 2007, entitled PROJECT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM AND METHOD, which application claimed priority from provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/756,692, filed on Jan. 6, 2006, also entitled PROJECT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM AND METHOD, both of those applications being incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. 
     
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION  
       [0002]     1. Field of the Invention  
         [0003]     The invention relates to a project management system, and more particularly to a project management system and method for managing projects utilizing an intuitive interface with minimal data entry.  
         [0004]     2. Description of the Related Art  
         [0005]     Project management systems are known, such as MICROSOFT PROJECT by MICROSOFT CORP. of Redmond, Wash. However, such project management systems are currently unwieldy to use and require substantial manual data re-entry, even for data that resides in another part of the system. Further, some project management systems require their own, separate exchange server upon which they are hosted. What is needed is a project management system that is easy to use. What is additionally needed is a project management system that does not require substantial, repetitive manual data entry. What is further needed is a project management system that does not require its own server.  
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION  
       [0006]     It is accordingly an object of the invention to provide a project management system and method wherein projects can be managed easily and with minimal manual data entry. Project management software, embodying the project management system of the present invention, can run on a computer network or user workstation, without requiring a dedicated host server. The project management system of the present invention provides at least one graphical interface, to permit a user to easily create and/or edit a project, tasks, subprojects and milestones, using the mouse or other pointer device. Additionally, in another preferred embodiment, a resource window can be located conveniently and consistently in all main views of the system, to assist the user in efficiently operating the project management system. Further, in another embodiment of the invention, projects can be automatically updated without repetitive data entry, using data entered once by the user performing a task.  
         [0007]     Other features which are considered as characteristic for the invention are set forth in the appended claims.  
         [0008]     Although the invention is illustrated and described herein as embodied in a project management system and method, it is nevertheless not intended to be limited to the details shown, since various modifications and structural changes may be made therein without departing from the spirit of the invention and within the scope and range of equivalents of the claims.  
         [0009]     The construction of the invention, however, together with additional objects and advantages thereof will be best understood from the following description of the specific embodiment when read in connection with the accompanying drawings.  
     
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING  
       [0010]      FIG. 1  is a representative example of a computer network that can be used with the present invention.  
         [0011]      FIGS. 2A and 2B  are examples of graphical elements which can be used to represent the tasks of a given project in one particular embodiment of the project management system of the instant invention.  
         [0012]      FIGS. 2C and 2D  are examples of graphical elements which can be used to represent the subprojects of a given project in one particular embodiment of the project management system of the instant invention.  
         [0013]      FIGS. 2E and 2F  are examples of graphical elements which can be used to represent the milestones of a given project in one particular embodiment of the project management system of the instant invention.  
         [0014]      FIGS. 3-5  are exemplary views of a Network view graphical interface, as used to create and/or edit projects in accordance with one particular embodiment of the project management system of the present invention.  
         [0015]      FIG. 6  is an exemplary view of a graphical project screen of  FIG. 5  shown with a task manager or resource banner, in accordance with another embodiment of the instant invention.  
         [0016]      FIG. 7  is an exemplary view of the project of  FIG. 5 , represented in an Outline view in accordance with one particular embodiment of the instant invention.  
         [0017]      FIG. 8  is an exemplary view of the project of  FIG. 5 , represented in a GANTT view in accordance with one particular embodiment of the instant invention.  
         [0018]      FIGS. 9A-9B  are views of individual data entry screens useful for tracking or updating projects in accordance with one particular embodiment of the present invention.  
         [0019]      FIG. 10  is a flow diagram representative of one particular method of updating projects, in accordance with the project management system of the instant invention.  
         [0020]      FIGS. 11A, 11B  and  11 C are examples of additional graphical elements which can be used to represent the tasks of a given project in one particular embodiment of the project management system of the instant invention.  
         [0021]      FIG. 12  is an exemplary view of a Network view graphical interface, as used to create and/or edit projects in accordance with another particular embodiment of the project management system of the present invention.  
     
    
     DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS  
       [0022]     The present invention relates to a project management system embodied in software resident on a computer or computer network, such as the computer network  10  shown in  FIG. 1 , for facilitating the easy management of various projects. In one particular embodiment, the project management system is designed for use with MAC OS X TIGER, a product of APPLE COMPUTER, Inc. Additionally, the project management system of the instant invention need not be resident on a dedicated server. In one particular embodiment, the project management system of the instant invention resides as software on a particular user&#39;s workstation computer, such as an ordinary workstation  10  of  FIG. 1 , (and not a dedicated server) and is accessible over an intranet by a plurality of users (i.e., computers  14 ,  16 ,  18  of  FIG. 1 ). An application, such as MAC WEBSERVER, produced by APPLE COMPUTER, Inc., can be used by the hosting computer ( 12  of  FIG. 1 ) to host the program management system and provide access to members (for example, computers  14 ,  16 ,  18  of  FIG. 1 ) of the Intranet. Such network can be established by known means communication paths  19 , such as by wired connection, wirelessly, by telephone, by internet, etc.  
         [0023]     In one particular preferred embodiment of the instant invention, the project management system permits the use of three different main layouts or views (Network, Outline and Timeline) for creating and/or editing projects. Each view may be selected by actuating a project view selection soft button (for example, project view soft buttons  112  of  FIG. 3 ) on the header or tool bar ( 110  of  FIG. 3 ) of the current project management screen or by setting a default view in the system preferences.  
         [0024]     The selected view of the project management system is displayed to a user on a display device of the workstations accessing the project management software of the instant invention. Such workstations additionally each include a mouse ( 15  of  FIG. 1 ) or other pointer device, to permit the user to interact with soft buttons, project entries and blanks on the project management system screens, using an on-screen pointer or cursor arrow. Data can additionally be entered on a keyboard connected to the workstation, or imported from another data source. Reports can be displayed on a display device connected to one of the workstations and/or transmitted, via the network to another user workstation, and/or printed out on a printer ( 17  of  FIG. 1 ) accessible to the network and/or a particular workstation. Each main view for entering project data of the project management system, and its inventive features, will be discussed more fully herebelow.  
         [0000]     The Network (PERT) View:  
         [0025]     Whereas traditional project management software provides a PERT view option, such a PERT view has, in the past, been static, requiring the user to return to a different view to enter and/or edit data displayed in the PERT view. Contrary to traditional project management systems and software, in a preferred embodiment of the instant invention, an inventive Network or PERT view is provided which assists the user in creating and/or editing a project plan directly in the Network/PERT view of the project management system.  
         [0026]     Referring now to  FIGS. 2-5 , there is shown a Network or PERT view, in accordance with one embodiment of the instant invention. The Network view of the instant invention is a graphical view that permits a project to be displayed as a diagram and which can be used to easily create projects in accordance with the instant invention. The Network view provides a completely graphical method of managing projects and entering data. Tasks, subprojects and milestones can be entered, merely by creating a task, subproject or milestone and associating hew tasks, subtasks or milestones with it, using the “drag and drop” methodology of the user interface.  
         [0027]     Referring more particularly to  FIG. 3 , there is shown a new project screen  100  in the Network view. As previously noted, each project screen, regardless of the view selected, includes a header or tool bar  110 . A variety of soft buttons can be provided on the tool bar  110 . For example, the particular view can be changed by the user by mousing over and selecting the desired project view soft button  112 . Note that, for purposes of the instant application, the terms “mouse-over”, “moused-over”, “mousing-over”, “located over” “rolled-over”, “rolling-over” and “rollover” are used herein, interchangeably, to describe placing or passing the on-screen pointer or cursor arrow controlled by the mouse or pointing device over an entry, soft-button or other article on the display screen. In this way, a project created in one view can be displayed, at will, in any of the other available main views.  
         [0028]     Additionally, the tool bar  110  can contain other useful buttons or information. For example, once entered, the project name can be displayed in a name bar  114 , above the tool bar  110 . Additionally, other soft buttons and/or drop down menus can be provided on the tool bar  110 . For example, buttons  116  can provide access to further drop down menus, resources and other information, such as scheduling views (including calendar and resource views) and management views (including selectable items that track progress, review submissions and create reports). As such, menus and items are understood in the area of project management systems, they will not be further explained herein.  
         [0029]     Additionally, the tool bar  110  of the project view screen  100  can include other soft buttons, drop down menus and interactive areas, only some of which are shown. For example, the tool bar  110  is additionally shown in  FIG. 3  as including a spotlight or search window  118 , into which a user can type a desired term or task name, the entry of which activates a search for that term or task name in the current project. Additionally, as will be discussed more particularly, herebelow, the tool bar  100  includes a soft button  120  that provides access, in any project view, to a task manager. Further, the tool bar  110  includes soft buttons  122  and  124  that enable collaboration with other users, as will be discussed more fully, below, by publishing the project and syncing the project, respectively. Other soft buttons, menus and fields may also be provided, but will not be shown or discussed herein. Further, in the instant embodiment, “right clicking” with the right side mouse button or “control clicking” while the pointer is over the window  148  produces additional menu options as a box in the window  148 , for example, a menu including options for adjusting the view settings, grid, layout, and/or critical path of the displayed project.  
         [0030]     The screen view shown in  FIG. 3  represents a newly created project, entitled “project name”, viewed in the inventive Network view of the instant invention. In the preferred embodiment of the Network view, additional tools can be provided. For example, a toolbox  132 , located at one edge of the screen, contains tools to help the user create, edit and arrange tasks. In the present preferred embodiment, the toolbox offers six tools, including a selection tool  132 , a task tool  134 , a subproject tool  136 , a milestone tool  138 , a pan tool  140  and a “critical path” tool  142 . A zoom level  144  determines how much of a project is visible in the project area.  
         [0031]     More particularly, the selection tool  132  provides the user with the on-screen pointer  146  or cursor arrow, which permits selection or moves a task or link. The task tool  134  is selected to create linked or unlinked tasks. Similarly, the subproject tool  136  and milestone tool  138  are selected to create, linked or unlinked subprojects and milestones, respectively. The pan tool  140  permits the project view to be moved within the window by “grabbing” and moving the project, using a mouse or other pointer device. The critical path tool  142 , once actuated, displays the project&#39;s critical path. All of the tools can be accessed by selecting a tool from the tool box  130 , using the on-screen pointer  146 , or by keyboard shortcuts.  
         [0032]     As previously stated, the Network view of  FIG. 3  displays a project as a diagram, thus permitting task dependencies and critical path information to be easily seen. The task, subproject, and milestone tools  134 ,  136 ,  138 , can be used to set up a project and add, delete or edit tasks, subprojects and milestones. Each graphical box can include rollover buttons, menus and/or controls, which only become visible displayed in the box when the pointer/cursor is located over a box for editing  
         [0033]      FIGS. 2A-2F  and  11 A- 11 C show the graphical representation of tasks, subprojects and milestones, as can be used in connection with the instant invention. More particularly,  FIG. 2A  shows one particular embodiment of a graphical box or task element  200  used in the present invention to represent a task, graphically, in the Network project view. Such an element  200  can be created in the window ( 148  of  FIG. 3 ) using the task tool ( 134  of  FIG. 3 ). Once created, the task is given a number  202  and a name  204 . Using the keyboard, a user can rename the task, and tab through and enter data into the duration field,  206 , the start date field  208  and finish date field  210 . Alternately, a series of tasks can be created and the information can be added to each task, later. Note that, in the instant invention, the task boxes can be customized to display different information, by adjusting a view settings menu of the system.  
         [0034]     Further, the graphical task element  200 , once placed in the Project view window ( 148  of  FIGS. 3-5 ), is interactive when moused-over. More particularly, as shown in  FIG. 2B , when moused-over with the mouse pointer  146 , the element  200  transforms to the element  200 ′, providing access to rollover buttons, menus and elements that are only displayed on the element  200 , 200 ′ when the element  200 , 200 ′ is moused-over for editing. In the present preferred embodiment, mousing-over the element  200 ′ provides the user with access to an activities dropdown menu  212 , a soft button  214  used for calling up a task manager, as will be discussed more fully in connection with  FIG. 6 , and calendar pickers  216  and  218 , for helping to select the start and finish dates for the task. Further, mousing-over the element  200 / 200 ′ provides access to a connection point or “linking hotspot”  220 , to assist in the linking of the element  200 / 200 ′ with other elements. Referring now to  FIGS. 2C and 2D , there is shown a graphical subproject element  222  and a dynamic version, thereof, subproject element  222 ′. Note that, as can be seen from the figures, the different graphical elements representing tasks, subprojects and milestones can be color-coded (as represented by the different stipling), by category, to make the diagrammed project even more easily read in the Network view. Like the task elements  200 ,  200 ′, the subproject elements  222 ,  222 ′ include an element number  224 , a name  226 , a duration field  228 , a start date field  230  and a finish date field  232 . When moused-over by the pointer  146 , the subproject element  222 / 222 ′ provides further access to the dropdown activities menu  212 , the task manager  214  and a connection point  220 . However, as a subproject can encompass a number of tasks, a subproject expansion button  234  is additionally provided, actuation of which by the pointer  246  causes the subproject to expand into its component tasks and milestones. Note that, in the instant embodiment, calendar pickers are not provided for setting the start date and finish date fields, as these fields, as well as the duration field, are set based on the data of the underlying tasks encompassed by the subproject.  
         [0035]      FIGS. 2E and 2F  show examples of the graphical elements useful for representing milestones in the Network view of the current embodiment. More particularly, the milestone element  236  is provided including an element number  238 , a milestone name  240  and a start duration field  242 . Note that, in the instant embodiment, milestone elements do not include a finish date field or a duration field.  
         [0036]     As shown more particularly in  FIG. 2F , when moused-over, the milestone element  236  transforms to the element  236 ′, making visible and providing further access to a dropdown activities menu  212 , a task manager  214  and a connection point  220 . A calendar picker  244  is provided on the moused-over milestone element  236 / 236 ′, to help a user select the start date of the milestone event.  
         [0037]     Further, referring now to  FIGS. 11A-11C , there are shown additional embodiments of a graphical box or task element  1100 ,  1111  and  1113  that can be used in the present invention to represent a task, graphically, in the Network project view. The task elements  1100 ,  1111  and  1113  are substantially similar to the task elements  200  of  FIGS. 2A and 2B , including a number  202  and a name  204 . Using the keyboard, a user can rename the task  1100 ,  1111 ,  1113 , and tab through and enter data into the duration field,  206 , the start date field  208  and finish date field  210 . Alternately, a series of tasks can be created and the information can be added to each task, later. Further, the graphical task elements  1100 ,  1111 ,  1113 , once placed in the Project view window ( 148  of  FIGS. 3-6  and  1200  of  FIG. 12 ), is interactive when moused-over with a mouse pointer in the same manner as the task element  200  of  FIGS. 2A and 2B , in order to make visible and provide further access to dropdown menus, a task manager, a connection point, calendar pickers, etc. However, in addition to the elements listed in connection with task element  200  of  FIGS. 2A-2B , the task elements  1100 ,  1111  and  1113  further include a “Media” field  1104 , containing externally prepared media elements. For example, media files can be dragged to a task element, in the network view of the project management software of the instant invention, and dropped into a task box (for example the task element  200 ) to create in that task box the media field  1104  and embed the media file therein. The media field  1104  can contain any desired type of embedded media file including, but not limited to, an image file (i.e., JPEG, BMP, TIFF, PDF, etc.), an audio file (i.e., MP3, MP4, AVI, WAV, etc.) and/or a video or movie file (i.e., MPEG, QUICKTIME, etc.).  
         [0038]     For example,  FIG. 11A  shows a task element  1100 , in accordance with one particular embodiment of the instant invention, having a media field  1104  with an image file embedded therein, and displaying an image  1110 . As stated above, the embedded image file can be a digital image, such as a JPEG or other digital image file.  
         [0039]     Similarly,  FIG. 11B  is another example of a task element  1111 , that can be used in accordance with one particular embodiment of the instant invention. The task element  1111  has a media field  1104  with a movie file embedded therein, and represented by the image  1112 . The movie file embedded into the task element includes a control bar  1114 , which can be used to adjust the volume, mute the movie, play/stop the display of the embedded movie file and/or skip ahead or back in the movie. Additionally, a play bar or slider  1115  displays the portion of the total movie viewed, and allows the user to move the file ahead or back, by manipulation of the slider button. As stated above, the embedded movie/video file can be a digital image, such as a MPEG, QUICKTIME or other digital image movie/video file. The movie/video file can be dragged from a desktop or file folder and dropped into the task element  1111 . Once the play button on the control bar  1114  is selected (using the mouse pointer), a video player installed on the local workstation, such as the QUICKTIME player, is launched on the application level (i.e., but not displayed over or in place of the project management software) and is used to play the video/movie in the task element  1111 . Additionally, the task element  1111  can, itself be moved, by dragging on the Network view of the project management software of the instant invention, while the movie/video is playing, without stopping or otherwise interfering with the continuous replay of the video/movie.  
         [0040]      FIG. 11C  is a further example of a task element  1113 , that can be used in accordance with one particular embodiment of the instant invention. The task element  1113  has a media field  1104  with an audio file embedded therein. The audio file is replayed using the control bar  1116 , which can be used to adjust and/or mute the replay volume of the audio file, play/stop the replay of the audio file and/or skip ahead or back in the file. Additionally, a play bar or slider  1117  displays the portion of the total audio file played, and allows the user to move the file ahead or back, by manipulation of the slider button. The audio file can be dragged from a desktop or file folder and dropped into the task element  1113 . Once the play button on the control bar  1116  is selected (using the mouse pointer), an audio player installed on the local workstation will be launched at the application level (i.e., but not displayed over or in place of the project management software) and is used to play the audio file in the task element  1113 . Additionally, the task element  1113  can be moved, by dragging on the Network view of the project management software of the instant invention, while the movie/video is playing, without interrupting the continuous replay of the audio file.  
         [0041]     Although the media field  1104  is described above in connection with the task elements  1100 ,  1111  and  1113 , this is not meant to be limiting, as it can be seen how subproject graphical elements (such as  222  of  FIG. 2C ) and milestone graphical elements (such as  236  of  FIG. 2E ) can additionally include a media field and embedded media files, if desired. As with the task elements described above, media fields can be created in the subproject and/or milestone graphical elements by dragging a desired media file from the desktop or file folder and dropping it into the desired graphical element in the Network view (or any other view, if desired) of the project management software of the instant invention. A subproject graphical element and a milestone graphical element, each including a media field and an embedded media file, are shown more particularly in  FIG. 12 .  
         [0042]     Referring back to  FIG. 3 , in order to place a task, milestone or subproject, a user need only click one of the task, subproject or milestone soft buttons,  134 ,  136 ,  138  on the toolbar and then click in the window  148  to deposit a graphical element of the desired type. For example, referring now to  FIG. 4 , there is shown a screen view of a project, shown in the Network view, having three task elements  250 ,  252 ,  254 , placed therein. The first task element  250  was created by first selecting the task button  134  with the pointer, and then clicking, again with the pointer, on the desired location in the window  148 ′. The second task element  252  was similarly created. To create the linked task  254 , one of the first task box  250  and the second task box  252  was moused-over, in order to display that element&#39;s connection point. Clicking on the displayed connection point and dragging with the mouse will create a linked task, such as the task  254 . Similarly, clicking and dragging from the connection point of the other of the elements  250  and  252 , to the box  254 , will similarly link those two boxes. Mousing-over the task element  254  will, likewise, expose its connection point, menus and soft buttons, for editing of that task element  254 . Subprojects and milestones can be added in the same way, by selecting the subproject or milestone buttons  136 ,  138  on the toolbar  130 , and dragging and dropping from the connection point of one element to the desired location of the subproject or milestone element.  
         [0043]     A project, built using graphical elements in the Network view of the instant invention, in the manner described above, is shown in  FIG. 5 . The graphical elements  250 - 264  of that project can be edited by mousing-over the desired element, and selecting the field to be edited, as shown in connection with task element  254 . Further, subprojects can be expanded to show their underlying tasks by mousing-over a subproject element (such as, element  256  of  FIG. 5 ) to display and activate the subproject expansion soft button ( 234  of  FIG. 2D ). Once expanded tasks, milestones and further subprojects can be added to the expanded subproject. The subproject, once expanded, can be collapsed using a keyboard or mouse entry, such as, by hitting a “back” soft button on the header bar (not shown).  
         [0044]     Referring now to  FIG. 6 , there is shown the Network view screen of  FIG. 5 , wherein the soft button  120  has been actuated to bring up a task manager. As will be described more fully herebelow, the task manager  270  can be displayed in connection with each possible main view of the instant invention (i.e., Network, Outline, Timeline), merely by selecting the task manager button  120  along the tool bar  110 , or, in the Network view, by actuating one of the information resource manager buttons  214  displayed when mousing-over any of the graphical elements. The task manager can be hidden by hitting the task manager button  120 , a second time.  
         [0045]     In one particularly preferred embodiment of the instant invention, in order to provide consistency and efficiency, the task manager  270  always appears in the same location in each view (i.e., Network, Outline, Timeline) of the present system. In a most preferred embodiment, the task manager  270 , while activated, always appears horizontally across the bottom portion of the screen window, as shown in  FIGS. 6-8 .  
         [0046]     Additionally,  FIG. 12  shows another embodiment of the Network view of the instant invention, including a combination of graphical elements with and without embedded media files. The embodiment of the Network view of  FIG. 12  is substantially similar to that of  FIGS. 3-6 . For example, the task elements, subproject elements and milestone elements are created and edited in the same manner as described in connection with  FIGS. 3-6 . However, once a task element, subproject element or milestone element has been created, a media file can be embedded therein by using the mouse pointer  146  to drag a media file from the desktop or a file folder, and drop it into the previously created task, subproject and/or milestone graphical element. For example, the Network view of the project “NAME” shown in  FIG. 12  includes: a task element  1210  including an embedded movie file/movie  1211 ; a task element  1212  including an embedded image file/image  1213 ; a subproject  1214  including an embedded audio file  1215 ; a task element  1216  not including a media field, or any type of embedded media file; and a milestone element  1218  including an embedded image file/image  1219 .  
         [0047]     Additionally, as shown more particularly in  FIG. 12 , mousing over a graphical element, such as the task element  1212 , with the mouse pointer  146 , while the Task Manager  270 ′ is open, will cause the embedded media file to be indicated on the Task Manager bar  270 ′. As such, if the media file is interactive, such as a movie file or an audio file, the media file can be played from the Task Manager bar  270 ′. Note that, in a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the embedded media file is displayed in the graphical task, subproject and/or milestone task, only while in the Network view. However, if desired, the embedded media file can be displayed in the graphical task element, or represented by an icon in the graphical element and or text lists of any view, including the GANTT and Outline views. If a task, subproject and/or milestone includes an embedded media file, the embedded media file and/or a representation thereof, will be displayed in the Task Manager, when mousing over a task, subproject and/or milestone in any of the views (i.e., and not just in the Network view) of the project management software of the present invention.  
         [0048]     As can be understood, the inclusion of media files in the tasks, subprojects and/or milestones of a project can be of great help and benefit. For example, movie producers can use the project management software to include dailies and/or rushes or other film clips for access by the entire project team. Similarly, lawyers can set up trial related projects embedding certain documents and/or video depositions into task, project and milestone elements. Additionally, production schedules can be further enhanced by adding soundbites, videos, photographs of parts, products, toolings, etc., into the project tasks, subprojects and milestones, for access by the entire project team. Note that the uses for and benefits of media files embedded in the project elements is endless and certainly not limited to the above examples.  
         [0000]     The Outline View:  
         [0049]     Referring now to  FIG. 7 , there is shown an example of an Outline view of a project in accordance with one embodiment of the instant invention.  
         [0050]     The Outline view shown in  FIG. 7 , is used to display a project as a list  310 , or outline, of tasks, subprojects and milestones. Tasks on the list can be selected, using a mouse or other pointer device of the workstation, in order to be expanded or collapsed. The outline view can be useful when importing task lists or projects from other applications. As described in connection with the Network view, the project shown in  FIG. 7  can be displayed in other view styles by selecting a desired view using the view selection buttons  112  in the header bar  110  of each screen. Additionally, a user can interact with the tasks and/or subproject entries in the list  310  for the project shown on the Outline view, using the mouse and toolbox buttons  320 . Functions that can be performed in the Outline view, using the toolbox buttons  310 , include, indenting a subproject, removing an indent, adding or deleting columns and rows, and adding or deleting a subproject, among other functions. Additional toolbox buttons and menus may be added, if desired.  
         [0051]     Additionally, as described in connection with the Network view, above, the task manager  270  can be selectively displayed by actuating the task manager button  120  on the tool bar  110  or, in the Outline view, actuating one of the task manager buttons  330 , associated with each entry in the outline list  310 . As in the Network and Timeline views, in the Outline view, while activated, the task manager  270  is displayed in a fixed, consistent location on the screen.  
         [0052]     Most preferably, the task manager  270 , while activated, is located in a fixed location that is the same in all views of the system, horizontally across the bottom of the screen, as shown in  FIGS. 6-8   
         [0000]     The Timeline (GANTT) View:  
         [0053]     Referring now to  FIG. 8 , there is shown one example of a Timeline or Gantt view display  400 , in accordance with one preferred embodiment of the instant invention. The timeline view of the present embodiment displays project tasks over calendar time. The Timeline view combines elements of the other two views (i.e., the Network and Outline views). Like the Network view, the Timeline view shows task links. Like the Outline view, the Timeline view displays the project as a list of tasks, with the ability to view all task levels.  
         [0054]     In one preferred embodiment, to further associate the tasks in the Timeline view to the tasks in the other views, task colors are the same as in the network view. Milestones can be represented as other shapes, such as diamond shapes, having no duration. The task list of the Timeline view can be edited using the same tool box  320  used in the outline view.  
         [0055]     Further, as in the network view, the linking hot spots of the graphical boxes of the tasks appear when the cursor is placed over a task. Once progress information or percent complete information has been entered in connection with a task, a second bar appears below the task bar showing progress. Progress bar can be associated with each element of the graphical view of the timeline. Additionally, such progress bars can be color-coded, if desired, as shown by progress bars  410 ,  420  and  430  in  FIG. 8 . For example, in one particular embodiment of the present invention, the progress bars of finished tasks are grey, progress bars in green indicate tasks proceeding on time, progress bars in red indicate tasks that are behind schedule and progress bars in yellow indicate tasks that are slipping. Additionally, a progress bar can be added to the view, showing overall progress, if desired.  
         [0056]     Additionally, using the Timeline view, tasks can be grouped or “framed” to show subprojects. For example, in one particular embodiment of the invention, in the graphical portion of the Timeline/GANTT view of  FIG. 8 , a subproject can be represented by a “frame” or on-screen box  440 , drawn around tasks  442 ,  444  and  446 . Such framing indicates that the enclosed tasks are encompassed within a subproject. In the GANTT view of  FIG. 8 , subprojects can be expanded and collapsed by selecting the subproject and/or framed items in the list  310 , for example, by selecting the arrow  315 , or by selecting a task or subproject.  
         [0057]     As with the previous views, in the Timeline view, while activated, the task manager  270  is displayed at a fixed consistent location, most preferably, horizontally across the bottom of the screen.  
         [0000]     The Task Manager:  
         [0058]     As discussed above, the project management system can include a task manager, selectively displayed on each view screen of the system, in order to provide information to the user. For example,  FIGS. 6-8  show such a task manager, called in the instant case a “Task Inspector Drawer”, that is appended to each main creation screen view, respectively, of the present system. If desired such a task manager can be available from window or view of the project management system that contains tasks. Additionally, the task manager banner can be shown on the screen when desired, or closed, by clicking a “close” icon, to stay out of view, when not needed.  
         [0059]     Referring more particularly to  FIG. 8 , it can be seen that the task manager of the present embodiment is divided into two sections  270   a  and  270   b . The portion  270   a  contains general information related to a task. Arrow buttons  272  can be used to navigate through the tasks. The section  270   b  contains more specific information about a task, and includes a plurality of tabs  274 , which can be accessed to access more specific information on each task.  
         [0060]     Exemplary categories accessible by tabs  274  on the task manager include those referenced by the headings: dates, resources, specs, documents, links, costs, income, notes, activities, advanced and custom.  
         [0061]     Accessing the dates tab on portion  270   b  of the task manager permits the entry of dates, constraints, parameters and other basic information. Additionally, changes can be made to the task type and category for reporting purposes. In one particular embodiment of the instant invention, actual dates and percent complete will not apply until the project is started and a baseline is saved.  
         [0062]     The resources tab of the task manager allows the addition, deletion or viewing of resources assigned to a task, as well as view workload distribution. Resources can be added from the resources tab to a task by dragging them from the Resource Panel or the Address Book into the resources pane, or onto a task in the Network, Outline, or Timeline view.  
         [0063]     Additionally, in the present embodiment of the invention, For more accurate scheduling, a resource&#39;s efficiency can be set as a percentage, in the Resource View. A resource&#39;s availability for tasks can be defined at the task level. This helps control the distribution of a resource&#39;s available time among concurrent tasks. These settings, along with the number of resources assigned to a task are used to calculate the task&#39;s duration or workload distribution.  
         [0064]     The specs tab of the task manager can be used to access and record the specifications, or performance standards expected for the task to be considered properly executed. These specifications are made available to the assigned resources to ensure they are aware of the defined performance standard.  
         [0065]     The documents tab of the task manager can be used to access and store documents pertaining to the task by dragging them into the Documents pane.  
         [0066]     The links tab of the task manager can be used to view and edit task relationships, dependencies, lead and lag times.  
         [0067]     The cost of assigned resources is can be shown under the cost tab of the task manager.  
         [0068]     Expected income such as disbursements, or payments for percentage of job completion, etc., can be tracked under the income tab in the task manager.  
         [0069]     The notes tab contains a free-form text field for entering general notes pertaining to a task.  
         [0070]     Under the activities tab of the task manager, meetings can be scheduled or viewed, emails and/or calls related to a task. Additionally, if desired, calls can be timed for billing purposes.  
         [0071]     The advanced tab of the task manager can be used to provide PERT time estimates, using statistical analysis to generate time estimates.  
         [0072]     Custom items pertaining to a task can be stored, viewed or edited under the custom tab of the task manager.  
         [0073]     As described more fully in connection with  FIG. 12 , above, if a task, subproject and/or milestone includes an embedded media file, mousing over the task, subproject and/or milestone in any the view of the project management software of the present invention, will cause the embedded media file and/or a representation thereof, to be displayed on the Task Manager bar. If the media file is interactive, such as a video/movie/audio file, or is an editable graphic image, clicking on the media file in the Task Manager bar with the mouse pointer will open the media file and/or permit the media file to be interacted with (i.e., played, edited, etc.).  
         [0000]     Updating and/or Tracking a Project:  
         [0074]     Further, the project management system of the instant invention can include an integration mechanism so that data entered into other applications can be ported into the project management system without duplicative manual entry of the data. For example, in one particular embodiment, the project management system of the instant invention can be integrated with databases for such other applications as Mail, iCal and Address book, thus eliminating duplicate data, as well as duplicative data entry.  
         [0075]     Additionally, the project management software of the instant invention can include tracking of projects. For example, referring now to  FIG. 9A , there is shown an exemplary data entry screen  450  for an exemplary task. As shown in  FIG. 9A , the project management system permits staff to update projects, submit time sheets, expenses, notes and documents to the system and/or project manager, using their own workstations. Once submitted, the information is transmitted to a project manager who may review the submission on a screen  460 , such as is shown in  FIG. 9B . From the screen  460  of  FIG. 9B , a project manager, when reviewing the submission of an individual team member, has the ability to approve or reject an individual submission, using the buttons  500 ,  510 .  
         [0076]     Optionally, the project management system may be set to automatically approve all submissions, as with button  520  of  FIG. 9B , or only submissions from certain users, without requiring separate approval from the project manager.  
         [0077]     More particularly, referring now to  FIG. 10 , there is shown a flow diagram of a method  600  for managing a project. First, a project is created in any of the ways previously described herein. Step  610 . For example, a project can be created using a Network view to create a graphical diagram of the tasks, subprojects and milestones. Such a project can be published to the team members using the publish button  122  on the tool bar of  FIG. 3 . As stated above, the project need not be hosted on a dedicated server, but can be created and maintained on a single workstation, or a plurality of workstations having shared access.  
         [0078]     Once tasks are worked on and/or completed, individual team members electronically input data regarding their progress into forms, such as that shown in  FIG. 9A . Step  620 . The software for the form of  FIG. 9A  can be resident on each team member&#39;s workstation, or may be hosted on a single workstation or webserver accessible to the team members. Once submitted by the team member, the individual team member progress reports are electronically transmitted to the project leader. Step  630 . In one particular embodiment of the instant application, a “widget” or activeX control on the desktop of the project manager&#39;s workstation, can be used to alert the project manager when a new submission has been received.  
         [0079]     As described in connection with  FIG. 9B , the program manager can individually review a team member&#39;s submission and approve or reject the submission. Step  640 . Optionally, the system can be set to automatically approve all submissions, or all submissions of certain users, without interdiction by the project manager.  
         [0080]     If a submission is rejected by the project manager, the team member is notified and is required to correct and resubmit the progress report. Step  650   
         [0081]     If the project manager approves the individual&#39;s progress report, the data entered by the team member is automatically entered into the project management system. Step  660 . As such, data does not have to be re-entered by the project manager to be used for project tracking. The data, entered once by the team member and approved by the project manager, is, itself, used to for project tracking. Once the data is entered, the project management system of the present invention automatically updates the project to reflect all approved submissions. Step  670 .  
         [0082]     As stated above, in the tracking portion of the project management system, team members can view projects, lists of assigned tasks, milestones, etc., on their own workstations, the information viewed by the users being stored on one or more users&#39; workstation(s), which workstation(s) can act as a webserver. More particularly, in one embodiment of the instant invention, the project is hosted on an APPLE COMPUTER, INC., MACINTOSH™ computer using OS X&#39;s built-in APACHE Web Server. Once installed, a user can publish projects and make task information available to the team members. Once published, team members can access the project from any browser on the network, using the project&#39;s URL. Published projects will be available only when the host computer is turned on and connected to a network. Team members will be able to connect and view information for the tasks they are assigned. Additionally, team members will be able to use the browser interface to enter and submit time sheets, expenses and notes pertaining to their assigned tasks, which data can be ported into the project, without any need to reenter the data.  
         [0083]     Note that the described embodiments are exemplary and that the above invention is not meant to be limited only to its preferred embodiments. For example, more or fewer than the three described main views can be provided and still be in keeping with the instant invention. Additionally, features of a present project management system and software that are known in the art of project management systems are not described separately herein, as it is understood that in the art that certain features are part of such a system (i.e., such as setting preferences, time units, costs, currency, etc.). It can be seen that other modifications can be made to the preferred embodiments and still be within the spirit of the present invention.