Introduction

Features Common to All Forecasts

Elements of a Good Forecast

Forecasting and the Supply Chain

Steps in the Forecasting Process

Forecast Accuracy

Summarizing Forecast Accuracy

Approaches to Forecasting

Qualitative Forecasts

Executive Opinions

Salesforce Opinions

Consumer Surveys

Other Approaches

Forecasts Based on Time-Series Data

Naive Methods

Techniques for Averaging

Other Forecasting Methods

Techniques for Trend

Trend-Adjusted Exponential Smoothing

Techniques for Seasonality

Techniques for Cycles

Associative Forecasting Techniques

Simple Linear Regression

Comments on the Use of Linear Regression Analysis

Nonlinear and Multiple Regression Analysis

Monitoring the Forecast

Choosing a Forecasting Technique

Using Forecast Information

Computer Software in Forecasting

Operations Strategy

Cases: M&L Manufacturing

Highline Financial Services, Ltd.