What a demand forecast is for

Forecasting is a structured estimate for a defined decision, horizon and level of detail. This guide introduces what a demand forecast is for and shows where it fits in a practical planning cycle.

Practitioner lens

Before applying what a demand forecast is for, state the unit, time bucket, planning level and horizon. Forecasts with different definitions are not comparable, even when their charts look similar.

First experiment

Draw the series before fitting a model; mark missing periods, stockouts, promotions and calendar changes.

This is an original educational brief. It is a starting point for discussion, not a claim that one technique fits every supply chain.