Windows 7: Suggestions on Product Roadmap software

I am looking for the best product to use for creating a product roadmap that will will display as a timeline so I can track changes over time.



To be more specific, I am tracking the changes across several models of computer systems. I need to break each model down into its parts (ie CPU, video card, RAM, etc...) and then display the changes of those parts (BIOS updates, chipset changes, etc...) over time on a gantt type chart. I currently do this on an excel spreadsheet but it is a very manual process. I am looking for a more automated way to handle it.

Any suggestions?

As you are used to MS office (excel) have a look at MS Project Which will possibly be able to import your excel data

If cost is a major concern there are some free options - let me know and I'll see if I can dig some links out

I have Project 2010 but it just seems to be very specific to tasks and resources (from a time perspective). It seems I would have to modify/tweak Project to fit this particular need.

I haven't ruled it out, just looking for the best option before I spend a lot of time developing the solution.

MS Visio has various templates for software developement which may allow you to better present you plan, but this would be another manual process.

I have used Open Workbench which uses different planning criteria and may meet your needs better that MSP

Open Workbench - Home

I also came across this comparison chart that may help you decide

Comparison of project management software - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

I'm sure there is an exact match to your requirements out there but it is a crowded market and the package cost can spiral