What is the main goal in using forward and backward scanning in network analysis?

The primary aim of utilizing forward and backward scanning in network analysis is to establish the most efficient schedule for completing a project. This method allows you to evaluate all possible paths through the network, determining the earliest start and finish times for each activity (forward scanning) and the latest possible times to begin and complete each activity without delaying the project (backward scanning).

By determining both the earliest and latest times, you identify the critical path—the sequence of activities that dictates the project’s minimum completion time. Any delay in this path will directly affect the project's overall timeline, making it crucial for efficient project management. Thus, the process of forward and backward scanning is fundamentally about optimizing the scheduling of activities to ensure efficient use of time and resources while avoiding unnecessary delays.