PRJ98: Import Error Opening Access Database File (176282)

SYMPTOMS

In Microsoft Project 98, when you attempt to open a project file from a database where the data was not generated from Microsoft Project 98, you may receive the following error message repeatedly:

An import error occurred.

When the file appears on the screen, the project data is incorrect.

In contrast, if you open the project file in Microsoft Project 4.1, the file opens without error. In addition, this error does not occur when you attempt to open a database file that was created in Microsoft Project 98.

CAUSE

This error appears because Microsoft Project 98 requires additional information to create the project file that was not required in Microsoft Project 4.1. For example, the Open From Database command in Microsoft Project 4.1 first converts the data from the four access tables into MPX format. As it opens the file, it evaluates the data. If it determines that some information was omitted from the table, it adjusts the data. For example, if you create a task and assign the task a Start Date and a Duration, but you do not specify a Finish Date, Microsoft Project 4.1 will calculate the Finish Date when you open the file using the Open From Database command. But Microsoft Project 98 will open the database without first converting the file to MPX format and adjusting the file for any missing data.

WORKAROUND

To work around this problem, use either of the following methods:

Method 1: Export the File from Microsoft Project 4.1 to MPP Format

Open the file in Microsoft Project 4.1.
On the File menu, click Save.
In the Save As type list, select Project MPP and then click Save.

Method 2: Import the File Using an Import Map

Import the file using an import map.

NOTE: Your file will not contain calendars and values in the Project Info dialog box (File menu) will be empty when you use this method.

For more information about importing from a Microsoft Access database and the creation of maps, click the Office Assistant, type Importing data from Access click Search, and then click to view the Import project data from a Microsoft Access database topic.

NOTE: If the Assistant is hidden, click the Office Assistant button on the Standard toolbar. If Microsoft Project Help is not installed on your computer, follow these steps:

Close all programs.
On the Windows Start menu, point to Settings and then click Control Panel.
Double-click the Add/Remove Programs icon
On the Install/Uninstall tab, click Microsoft Project 9 and then click Add/Remove.
Follow the directions provided in the setup dialog boxes.

NOTE: If you originally installed Microsoft Project from a network file server or from a shared folder, run that copy of the Setup program.