Forecast period
Forecasting is the art of predicting future events by examining a variety of factors. A forecast period is a defined period of time in the future that is taken for the preparation of an estimate of what is thought likely to happen during that period. The forecast may take the form of a statement that is written or verbal. It may also include graphical or numerical information.
A business forecast may be undertaken for example, on a three-month, six month or yearly basis. If done on a three-month basis, the forecast is usually referred to as a quarterly forecast; if six-month, it is referred to as a six-month forecast.
Forecasts are usually created from studying historical data and predicted trading conditions, opinions, trends, political, social and international factors, and how these might interact during the period concerned. The forecasts may be used as the basis for preparing targets and budgets for the period.
Most business forecasting is based on the use of extrapolative forecasting (extrapolative research techniques) which attempts to predict the future by extrapolating historical trends. This process assumes that patterns that have been manifest in the past are regular, can be measured and will continue.
Such techniques can be used to forecast annual earnings, annual spending, house sales etc.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
The Home Energy Model and its wrappers
From SAP to HEM, EPC for MEES and FHS assessment wrappers.
Future Homes Standard Essentials launched
Future Homes Hub launches new campaign to help the homebuilding sector prepare for the implementation of new building standards.
Building Safety recap February, 2026
Our regular run-down of key building safety related events of the month.
Planning reform: draft NPPF and industry responses.
Last chance to comment on proposed changes to the NPPF.
A Regency palace of colour and sensation. Book review.
Delayed, derailed and devalued
How the UK’s planning crisis is undermining British manufacturing.
How much does it cost to build a house?
A brief run down of key considerations from a London based practice.
The need for a National construction careers campaign
Highlighted by CIOB to cut unemployment, reduce skills gap and deliver on housing and infrastructure ambitions.
AI-Driven automation; reducing time, enhancing compliance
Sustainability; not just compliance but rethinking design, material selection, and the supply chains to support them.
Climate Resilience and Adaptation In the Built Environment
New CIOB Technical Information Sheet by Colin Booth, Professor of Smart and Sustainable Infrastructure.
Turning Enquiries into Profitable Construction Projects
Founder of Develop Coaching and author of Building Your Future; Greg Wilkes shares his insights.
IHBC Signpost: Poetry from concrete
Scotland’s fascinating historic concrete and brutalist architecture with the Engine Shed.
Demonstrating that apprenticeships work for business, people and Scotland’s economy.
Scottish parents prioritise construction and apprenticeships
CIOB data released for Scottish Apprenticeship Week shows construction as top potential career path.
From a Green to a White Paper and the proposal of a General Safety Requirement for construction products.
Creativity, conservation and craft at Barley Studio. Book review.
The challenge as PFI agreements come to an end
How construction deals with inherited assets built under long-term contracts.
Skills plan for engineering and building services
Comprehensive industry report highlights persistent skills challenges across the sector.
Choosing the right design team for a D&B Contract
An architect explains the nature and needs of working within this common procurement route.
Statement from the Interim Chief Construction Advisor
Thouria Istephan; Architect and inquiry panel member outlines ongoing work, priorities and next steps.