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
BIM for structural reinforcement modelling
From the basics to the future from our Cohesive BIM wiki.
ECA skills recharge at the House of Commons
As electrical sector feels skills shortage bite.
The impact of pandemic and new legislation on courses
CIOB Academy’s course take-up inked to external factors.
An artist, philanthropist and ex-Army helicopter pilot
Q and A with self-representing artist, Hannah Shergold.
Building Safety Regulator appoints permanent director
And publishes three-year strategic plan.
Update on the Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme (ESOS)
Introducing changes to make it more effective from 2024.
2023 CIOB photography competition
Shortlist announced for 2023 public choice award vote.
The last of the Victorians. Book review.
Grimsby's Kasbah: where’s that?
An exotic name that is shrouded in mystery.
This weeks guest editor, Ankita Dwivedi of Firstplanit.
Fropm practice to research and the business of materials.
Terms, histories, theories and practices.
Types of work to existing buildings - repurposing of buildings
Alteration and everything else before demolition.
2023 HSE data on workplace injuries and ill health
And CIOB's response.
Building Safety Act and Secondary Legislation
Presidential update from CIAT's Eddie Weir PCIAT.