Migration Options – Project Server Hosting vs Build New
Why You’re Seeing This
Based on your situation, you don’t currently have an existing Project Server environment to migrate into.While there have been unofficial signals through partner and customer back channels suggesting some organizations may receive timeline flexibility, there is no public or contractual confirmation that applies universally.
Because of that uncertainty — and the historically very short Microsoft offramp windows once triggered — planning remains critical.
This page outlines the two most practical, supportable paths forward without forcing premature action.
Important Context (Read This Carefully)
- There is no public Microsoft confirmation of blanket extensions
- Any flexibility appears customer-specific and contract-specific
- Once an offramp is initiated, timelines can compress quickly
This is why we strongly recommend involving:
- Legal
- C-Suite leadership
- Contracts / procurement
Early — before technical decisions are required.
Your Practical Options
Option 1: Hosted Project Server (Simple, Fast, Cost-Effective)
For organizations without infrastructure — or those wanting to avoid managing it — hosted Project Server is often the cleanest path.
We’ve worked with Apps4Rent and are comfortable recommending them based on experience with their setup, support, and pricing model.
Current Pricing (as of now):
- $395 / month base
- ~$20 per Project Manager / user license
This pricing is exceptionally attractive for small organizations, especially those with fewer than ~20 Project Managers.
👉 Pricing details can be found here:
https://www.apps4rent.com/microsoft-project-server-hosting/
Why customers choose hosted:
- No Azure or on-prem infrastructure required
- Predictable OpEx pricing
- Backups, patching, and uptime handled externally
- Fastest way to get onto Project Server without internal IT strain
Option 2: Build New Project Server (Azure or On-Prem)
If your organization already has Azure in place — or prefers full internal ownership — building Project Server is absolutely viable.
This is an area where we actively support customers, often in partnership with trusted technical specialists.
We regularly work with Big Cloud Consultants to help customers with:
- Azure architecture and environment builds
- SQL Server configuration
- SharePoint Server and Project Server installs
- Azure AD integration and security design
- Validation that the environment supports reporting and Roadmap adoption
Best fit:
- Organizations with IT capacity
- CapEx-oriented budgeting
- Long-term platform ownership strategies
Hosted vs. Build New
| Option | Cost Model | Who Manages | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hosted | Monthly OpEx (~$395/mo) | Hosting Gold Partner (Apps4Rent Link Here) | Small–mid orgs, low IT overhead |
| Build New | CapEx + infra costs | Your IT team Get help from Big Cloud Consultants | Full control, internal capability |
Both options fully support advanced Project Server capabilities and enhanced reporting.
Why We Encourage Project Server (When Possible)
While Project Online remains productive today, Project Server provides:
- More flexibility
- Greater control
- Stronger reporting foundations
- Better long-term positioning for PMO maturity
That’s why — when timing allows — we prefer helping customers move intentionally to Project Server rather than waiting until options narrow.
Our Strong Recommendation
Even if you are not taking action immediately:
- Start the business conversation now
- Clarify contractual realities early
- Avoid reactive, last-minute technical decisions
Planning does not mean migrating tomorrow — it means protecting your options.
Want the Full Migration Context?
If you’d like a deeper explanation of:
- When migration actually makes sense
- What typically triggers action
- How to avoid rushed decisions
👉 Link to: Migrating to Project Server
Final Thought
This isn’t about panic — it’s about preparedness.
The organizations that navigate this best are the ones that plan early, involve leadership, and move deliberately.
That’s exactly how the Ultimate PMO Roadmap is designed to work.
Not sure your current partner has the right experience? Reach out to us — we’ve successfully handled Project Server migrations and can help guide your next move.
Keep your PMO steady: don’t rush migration, but don’t ignore it either.
Thinking about migration costs after all?
You can restart the wizard and explore ballpark estimates.