How to View Microsoft Project Files on Ubuntu

Ubuntu users seeking to view Microsoft Project files with a .mpp extension can explore several options, each with its unique advantages and limitations. This guide will explore how to use LibreOffice, ProjectLibre, GanttProject, Wine, and online converters to meet your needs.

1. Using LibreOffice for File Conversion

For those who prefer a reliable and widely-used option, LibreOffice offers a file conversion method that is easy to set up.

First, ensure LibreOffice is installed on your Ubuntu system: Open your terminal and execute the following commands: sudo apt update
sudo apt install libreoffice

Once installed, you can open a project file (.mpp) within LibreOffice. While this method works for basic tasks, it may not support all advanced features of Microsoft Project.

2. Leveraging ProjectLibre as an Open-Source Alternative

For those looking for an open-source alternative specifically designed for Microsoft Project .mpp files, ProjectLibre is a popular choice.

Download the latest version from ProjectLibre's official website and extract the file. Run the application. If you do not have Java installed, install it separately before proceeding.

Upon opening ProjectLibre, you can import your .mpp file directly and enjoy a seamless experience for both viewing and editing.

3. Utilizing GanttProject for Comprehensive Project Management

Another robust option is GanttProject, which is highly specialized for project management tasks.

Download GanttProject from its official website. Extract the downloaded file and run the application.

After opening GanttProject, you can import your .mpp file and take advantage of its powerful project management features.

4. Running Microsoft Project on Wine

For those who prefer to use the original Microsoft Project, Wine can be a viable solution.

First, update and install Wine: sudo apt update
sudo apt install wine

Once Wine is installed, you can attempt to install Microsoft Project within your Wine environment. Note that this method may require additional setup and may not always work smoothly.

5. Online Converters for Quick Viewing

If your primary need is to view the file, without the need for editing, online converters like CloudConvert or Zamzar can be useful.

Simply upload your .mpp file to these services, and they will convert it to a format that can be easily viewed on Ubuntu, such as PDF.

Conclusion

The choice of method depends on your specific needs: whether you need to view or edit, and the complexity of the project file. ProjectLibre and GanttProject stand out as the most user-friendly options for editing and viewing .mpp files.

One user, upon running ProjectLibre on their Ubuntu laptop, reported a seamless experience. It not only opened existing Microsoft Project files but also allowed them to save the files back for their colleagues on Windows machines.