A good project management package links the various tasks in order of 
beginning and ending links. Leading and ending dates, times are easily 
stated. The critical path and float times of tasks are readily seen. 
Then when a task slips (the key person is sick), it is easy to see what 
becomes critical, and management decisions can be made. But, it MUST be 
kept up to date and maintained!! Garbage in Garbage out.

I have used several different packages on my smaller projects, and have 
been a part of large construction projects where one engineer did only 
maintain the project, and he wasn't the high level of the project 
manager! We knew at all times where our schedule was and most of our 
individual tasks were there also to tickle us. Each of the individual 
players would provide input on their items. The output reflected then 
the team tasks. :)

Microsoft Project is good, has lots of bells and whistles, but can star 
tout as basics.
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