Hey there! If you’re new to Microsoft Project, congrats on taking your first step towards creating accurate project schedules. One of the key things you’ll want to do is to add company holidays to the Standard calendar. There are two types of company holidays: those that happen on the same day of the month each year, and those that occur on specific dates. In this article, I’ll walk you through the steps needed to add holidays that fall on the same day of the month every year. If you would rather watch the YouTube video on this subject, click here or click the thumbnail below.

Getting Started

To start the process to add company holidays to your Standard calendar, follow these steps:

1. Open Your Project: Begin by opening any project, such as a new blank project.
2. Access the Project Ribbon: Click the “Project” tab to display the Project ribbon.
3. Change Working Time: Locate and click the “Change Working Time” button to display the Change Working Time dialog.

How to Add Company Holidays

Now that you’ve accessed the “Change Working Time” dialog, let’s proceed to add holidays that happen on the same day of the month each year.

1. Select the First Holiday: In the calendar grid at the top of the dialog, select the date of the first holiday that falls on a specific day of the month. For example, I’ll choose the upcoming occurrence of the Thanksgiving Day holiday for here in the United States, which occurs on the fourth Thursday of November each year.
2. Enter the Holiday: In the Exceptions grid at the bottom of the dialog, enter the name of the holiday.
3. Set Start Date: Press the “Tab” key or the “Right-Arrow” key to select the Start date for the holiday.
4. Configure Recurrence: To make the holiday recur annually, click the “Details” button to open the Details dialog.
5. Choose Yearly Recurrence: In the Details dialog, select the “Yearly” option for recurrence.
6. Define the Holiday: Depending on the holiday’s pattern, choose the appropriate definition. For instance, Thanksgiving Day is always the fourth Thursday of November.
7. Specify Occurrences: At the bottom of the dialog, choose the number of times you want the holiday to recur. Generally, a range of five to ten occurrences is recommended.
8. Save Changes: Once you’re done, click the “OK” button to save your settings for the holiday.
9. Rinse and Repeat: Continue to repeat these steps for each holiday that occurs on the same day of the month. If you are here in the United States, you will probably want to create occurrences for Memorial Day and Labor Day, for example.
10. Finish the Process: When finished, click the “OK” button to close the Change Working Time dialog and then save your project.

Great job! You’ve successfully learned hot to add company holidays to your Standard calendar. Now your project schedule will automatically account for these company holidays that fall on the same day of the month each year.

If you have questions, please add them in the Comments section below. Or if you watch the video, add your questions or comments there. Please subscribe to my YouTube channel and leave “Likes” if you like the videos.

If you would like to have a formal class on using Microsoft Project, here is a link for my classes.

FAQ

What is Microsoft Project Dynamic Scheduling?

Microsoft Project Dynamic Scheduling is a feature within Microsoft Project that allows you to create flexible project plans, update schedules based on changing circumstances, and optimize resource allocation.

How can Microsoft Project Dynamic Scheduling benefit my project management?

Microsoft Project Dynamic Scheduling can benefit your project management by enabling efficient planning, increased productivity, and the ability to adapt to changes, allowing your projects to thrive.

What role does dynamic scheduling play in effective project management?

Dynamic scheduling plays a crucial role in effective project management by helping you stay on track, manage resources efficiently, and meet project goals.

What features does Microsoft Project offer for dynamic scheduling?

Microsoft Project offers various features and functions for dynamic scheduling, allowing you to create flexible project plans, update schedules in real-time, and optimize resource allocation.

How does dynamic scheduling optimize resource allocation?

Dynamic scheduling in Microsoft Project optimizes resource allocation by providing a flexible project schedule that can adapt to changes in resource availability, ensuring efficient utilization and maximizing productivity.

How does dynamic scheduling streamline project execution?

Dynamic scheduling streamlines project execution by providing a real-time, updated project schedule that enables effective communication, task prioritization, and timely decision-making throughout the project lifecycle.

How does dynamic scheduling enhance collaboration within Microsoft Project?

Dynamic scheduling enhances collaboration in Microsoft Project by offering collaborative features that promote effective communication, facilitate teamwork, and foster a shared understanding of project goals and progress among team members.

How does dynamic scheduling help track progress and manage risks?

Dynamic scheduling in Microsoft Project helps track progress and manage project risks by providing real-time updates and customizable reports that allow you to identify potential bottlenecks, mitigate risks, and take proactive actions to keep your project on track.

How can dynamic scheduling in Microsoft Project leverage data and insights for continuous improvement?

Dynamic scheduling in Microsoft Project provides valuable data and insights for continuous improvement by analyzing project performance metrics, identifying trends, and making data-driven decisions to enhance project outcomes and increase overall efficiency.