Introduction
When migrating project schedules from Microsoft Project (MSP) to Oracle Primavera P6, one of the biggest challenges is ensuring a smooth conversion without losing data integrity. Primavera P6 does not support direct import of .MPP (Microsoft Project file format). Instead, users must convert MPP to MPX (Microsoft Project Exchange format), which is compatible with Primavera P6.
This guide walks you through the step-by-step process of converting MPP to MPX and importing it into Primavera P6.
Step 1: Export MPP File to MPX Format in MSP
Microsoft Project versions up to MSP 2003 supported MPX format natively, but newer versions (MSP 2010, 2013, 2016, 2019, and later) do not. To convert MPP to MPX, you need a third-party MPP to MPX converter tool.
Step 2: Use an MPP to MPX Converter
Since newer versions of MSP do not support MPX, a standalone tool is required. You can download a free MPP to MPX converter to handle this process.
Download the MPP to MPX Converter Tool
- Install the converter by following the on-screen instructions.
- Open the tool and select the .MPP file you wish to convert.
- Choose MPX as the output format and click Convert.
- Save the .MPX file to a known location.
Step 3: Import MPX into Primavera P6
Once you have converted the MPP file to MPX format, follow these steps in Primavera P6:
- Open Primavera P6 and navigate to File → Import.
- Select MPX as the import format.
- Click Next and locate the converted MPX file.
- Choose the import destination, such as an existing project or a new project.
- Click Finish to complete the import process.
Troubleshooting & Tips
✅ Check Data Mapping: After importing, verify that activities, resources, and logic relationships are correctly mapped.
✅ Fix Calendar Differences: MSP and P6 use different calendars. You may need to manually adjust calendars in Primavera P6.
✅ Validate Constraints & Logic: Some constraints from MSP may not transfer correctly to P6. Review the schedule logic after import. (
✅ Alternative Method: If the MPX format is not available, export MSP to XML and then import it into Primavera P6.
Final Thoughts
Converting Microsoft Project MPP files to MPX format is a crucial step when migrating schedules to Primavera P6. Using a dedicated converter tool ensures that data remains intact and minimizes compatibility issues.
Download the MppToMpx converter tool now and streamline your scheduling workflow!
Would you like assistance with specific data loss issues after conversion? Let me know!