What is the purpose of establishing the latest start (LS) time?

Establishing the latest start (LS) time is crucial for project scheduling because it plays a key role in ensuring that the completion time of the project is not delayed. The LS time is the latest point in time that a task can start without impacting the overall project timeline. By determining this timing, project managers can effectively schedule tasks to keep the entire project on track, especially when dealing with dependencies and potential bottlenecks.

This concept is vital in project management methodologies such as the Critical Path Method (CPM), where understanding the relationship between task durations and their scheduling is necessary to minimize delays in project completion. By monitoring the LS time, project managers can identify tasks that need to be prioritized or adjusted if delays are looming, ultimately safeguarding the project's deadlines and objectives.