Can not import Layout

Your colleague sends you a Primavera XER file along with a Layout file. After successfully importing the project, you go to:

• Layout → Open → Import → Select the layout

…and suddenly, an error appears:

Your first reaction might be:
“The layout file must be corrupted, I should ask them to resend it.”

But wait, it’s not an issue with the layout file.

The real problem is that you are in the wrong window.

After importing a project, Primavera may still leave you in the Projects window. However, layouts, especially activity layouts, can only be imported from the correct context.

To fix this:

• Switch to the Activities window
• Then go to Layout → Open → Import again
• Select the layout file

It should now import without any issue.

Key takeaway:
To import an Activities layout successfully, you must first be in the Activities window.