Backward Scheduling
This is a method of determining a production schedule by working backwards from the due date (or time) to the start date (or time), and computing the materials and time required at every operation or stage. Backward scheduling depends on:
- Product structure – Bill of Materials (BoM);
- Lead times – of end product and its components; and
- Due date – of end product.
Forward Scheduling
Forward scheduling begins with the start date of the first operation in the process. Then, it works forward through the sequence of operations, setting start dates for each step. In make-to-order environments, companies use forward scheduling to promise delivery dates.
Forward scheduling can focus the company’s attention on bottlenecks in the process.
Forward scheduling contains various limitations as opposed to backward scheduling. Items with complex product structures should not be forward scheduled. This is because different components with different lead times are needed at the same time.
Backward scheduling with MRP is more appropriate. However, forward scheduling can be used to supplement backward scheduling and solve problems, such as overloading.
