I find some of the UI differences between projects and sub-projects to be confusing, specifically because they have similar functions implemented in differing ways. Let me explain.
Projects and sub-projects can both:
- be marked as parallel or sequential
- have a default context
But the method of changing and viewing these attributes is completely different between projects and sub-projects.
To change the parallel/sequential attribute:
Project- click the parallel/sequential icon on the project entry in the outline
- click the "actions must be performed in order" checkbox in the project inspector
Sub-project- right click on the sub-project entry in the outline, and click "Parallel"
For the project, I can see an indication of this state by hovering over the project's outline entry, or glancing at the project inspector. While for the sub-project, I have to right-click on it to see the "Parallel" menu item checkmark.
To change the default context
Project- Right-click on the project and choose the default context from the "Default Context" sub-menu. The only way to know what the default context is is by viewing this menu.
Sub-project- Right-click on the sub-project and choose the default context from the "Context" sub-menu. The default context is directly visible on the sub-project entry, as well as through the "Context" sub-menu.
Why the differences? When a task is promoted to a sub-project, shouldn't all references to "Context" be changed to "Default Context"? (As I was typing this, I discovered the "Action" inspector, which is a consistent place to change the context for projects, sub-projects, and tasks. But I still think the terminology should be kept consistent.)