Forward scheduling is based on completing jobs exactly on their due date. True False
The correct answer and explanation is :
Correct Answer: False
Explanation:
Forward scheduling does not focus on completing jobs exactly on their due date. Instead, it involves scheduling tasks to start as soon as resources are available, without necessarily considering the due date. This scheduling approach is typically used in production and manufacturing systems where tasks are initiated as early as possible to maximize resource utilization and minimize idle time.
Understanding Forward Scheduling
Forward scheduling works by setting a start date and then scheduling all tasks forward in time until completion. It answers the question: “When is the earliest this job can be completed?” The focus is on initiating work at the first available opportunity rather than on aligning completion with a deadline.
For example, in a manufacturing plant, if a new order arrives, forward scheduling would immediately assign it to available machines and workers. The job might be completed well before its due date, or it might be delayed if resources are constrained.
Why Forward Scheduling Does Not Ensure Jobs Are Completed on Their Due Date
- Ignores Due Dates: Forward scheduling prioritizes starting jobs early rather than ensuring they finish at a specific deadline.
- Resource Utilization Focus: It aims to keep machines, employees, and materials actively engaged instead of keeping them idle.
- Risk of Early or Late Completion: Since jobs are scheduled as early as possible, they may be finished well before the due date or could face bottlenecks that delay completion.
Alternative: Backward Scheduling
Backward scheduling, on the other hand, works by scheduling tasks to finish exactly on their due date by working backward from the deadline. It ensures timely completion but may lead to resource underutilization.
Thus, forward scheduling is not based on completing jobs exactly on their due date, making the correct answer False.