Business Forecasting Methods

The powerful techniques of business forecasting are increasingly important in modern industry. This text examines the techniques, the mathematical basis which underpins them and integrates throughout the use of computer software. Using numerous real life cases and examples the author demonstrates the advantages and limitations of the forecasting techniques being studied. By focusing on forecasting at the level of the firm and industry the importance of interpreting results is emphasized. A major aim of the book is to bring out fully the use of computerized forecasting programmes. Output from a number of powerful software systems is presented and analyzed to demonstrate the methods used. The book includes a review of qualitative methods for forecasting business and economic conditions, and their implications for the forecasting of inflation and business cycles.