Customizing Symbol & Bar Shapes in the Project/Gantt Chart

To access the customization features available for the events on the Project/Gantt Chart, select one or more events in your timeline chart. Depending on the event selected, this will open the Symbol, Format tab, or the Event, Format. In these tabs you can customize the symbol and bar shape with its fill, outline and effects. As you select customization options, the events will automatically update with your preferences.

To change the symbol or bar shape:

1. While viewing the Project/Gantt Chart, select one or more events. This will open the Bar, Format tab.
2. To change the bar shape, in the Shape group, click on the desired shape.
   OR
   For events with a start date but no end date, symbol options are available. To change the assigned bar to a symbol, in the Shape group, click the Milestone button and select the desired symbol.
   

To select a single color for the shape fill:

1. While viewing the Project/Gantt Chart, select one or more events. This will open the Bar, Format tab.
2. In the Shape group, click the down arrow beside Shape Fill.
3. Choose a color from either the Theme Colors (drawn from the theme currently in use), Standard Colors, or click More Colors to choose a custom color.
   

To use a gradient for the shape fill:

1. While viewing the Project/Gantt Chart, select one or more events. This will open the Bar, Format tab.
2. In the Shape group, click the down arrow beside Shape Fill, and select Gradient.
3. At the top of the Gradient dialog, select the two colors you wish to use.
4. Select a gradient style, then click OK.
   

To customize the shape outline:

1. While viewing the Project/Gantt Chart, select one or more events. This will open the Bar, Format tab.
2. In the Shape group, click the down arrow beside Shape Outline.
3. Select the Color, Size and Style as desired.
   

To customize the bar effects:

1. While viewing the Project/Gantt Chart, select one or more events. This will open the Bar, Format tab.
2. In the Shape group, click the down arrow beside Shape Effects.
3. Click Bevel or Shadow and select the desired options.
   

Tip: The Bevel effect is only available on bars when the standard rectangle shape is in use. It is not available for symbol shapes.