This book provides a working knowledge of the fundamentals of business forecasting that can be applied in the real world regardless of firm size. It takes the reader through basic forecasting methodology, and then practical applications. All aspects of business forecasting are discussed making this book a comprehensive, valuable reference.

What is unique about this book is threefold. First, this book is practically oriented. It avoids theoretical, rigorous, and mathematical discussions. It gets directly into how to use it, when to use, what it is used for, and what resources are required of it. Secondly, it incorporates the use of computer and information technology. Thirdly, the book goes much beyond just sales forecasting. It encompasses a wide range of topics of major importance to practical business managers, including economic forecasting, cash flow forecasting, cost prediction, earnings forecasts, and much more.

Table of Contents:

Preface
Acknowledgements
Part 1: Introduction
1) Forecasting and Managerial Planning
2) Forecasting, Budgeting, and Business Valuations
Part 2: Forecasting Methods
3) Moving Averages and Smoothing Methods
4) Regression Analysis
5) Multiple Regression
6) Time Series Analysis and Classical Decomposition
7) Forecasting with No Data
8) Indirect Methods
9) Evaluation of Forecasts
10) What is the Right Forecasting Tool and Software for You?
Part 3: Applications
11) Sales and Revenue Forecasting
12) Forecasting the Economy
13) Financial and Earning Forecasting
14) Cash Flow Forecasting
15) Analysis of Cost Behavior and Cost Prediction
16) Bankruptcy Prediction
17) Forecasting Foreign Exchange Rates
18) Interest Rate Forecasting
19) Technological Forecasting
20) Forecasting in the 21st Century
Glossary
Appendix
Index