Applying Microsoft Project (MSP) for Integrated Schedule, Cost, and Resource Control in Infrastructure Projects: A Review and Practical Framework

Abhishek Mathur

Microsoft Project, Critical Path, Earned Value Management, Resource Levelling, S-Curve, Construction, Public Infrastructure, Schedule Assurance

Microsoft Project (MSP) remains one of the most widely adopted scheduling and control tools across infrastructure and building programs due to its accessibility, integration with Microsoft 365, and strong baseline/variance, resource, and Earned Value Management (EVM) capabilities. This paper synthesizes the state of practice and research around MSP, clarifies where it aligns with recognized best practices (PMBOK, GAO Schedule Assessment Guide), and proposes a pragmatic framework for planning and controlling public infrastructure projects. The contributions include: (1) a concise literature review on MSP capabilities and limitations; (2) an implementation framework covering WBS design, logic, calendars, baselines, cost/loading, EVM, resource leveling, and reporting; and (3) a field-ready governance checklist aligned to schedule quality metrics. Annotated references are provided for quick appraisal.

https://dx.doi.org/10.31873/IJEAS.12.08.05