help with an expired ms project eval copy

[JimmyZ1]

Funniest thing, One of my users wanted to evaluate MS Project, no problem I got an eval copy and installed it on the users computer. Well the user decided to wait until the eval copy expired to try to use Project, I've attempted uninstalls and reinstalls and nothing works,

Is it possible to re-evaluate a piece of software?

HOW?

 

[PDQBach]

In a word: no.

The process that MS uses to lock down an eval copy is highly complex and, I believe, makes extensive use of numerous cross-referencing entries in the registry. If you tracked all the registry changes during installation, you might be able to back out the installation but I suspect that whatever effort you put in would very quickly exceed the cost of buying a copy.

Other approaches:

1. Install the eval software on a second machine. Perhaps I should add: nag the user daily to test software <grin>

2. Get an eval copy of a different release of the software. Install it (and nag the user ... <grin>)

3. Purchase a copy from eBay of a previous release. I suggest "previous" since it will possibly be sold at a discount.

4. Purchase a current copy. If you save one week of PM effort on a project then the software will have paid for itself several times over.

(There is one final piece of hope for you. This article describes a workaround for an error that occurs when an evaluation copy of Project is installed and the first attempt -- during the evaluation period!!! -- says that it has expired.

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/q285343/

)

 

[JimmyZ1]

Thanks, looks like i'm buying a copy