Generating forecasts in Forecast Pro consists of executing the following steps:
- Prepare the input data. This is performed outside of the program and entails selecting the type of data format to use and preparing the files. Creating your data files is discussed in Reading in your Data.
- Specify the default options. This is accomplished using the Options dialog box, which may be opened with the Options icon on the Home tab. Options set by the user will apply to the current project file and can also be saved to the ForecastProTRAC.ini file and used as defaults for all future forecast documents using the Set as Default button. You only need to set the options when you use Forecast Pro for the first time, or when you wish to change the current settings. An overview of all option tabs and settings is in Forecast Pro Options.
- Define the historic data and other inputs. This is accomplished by specifying the appropriate entries in the Data Manager. Consult Using the Data Manager for details.
- Read in the data and prepare the forecasts. This is accomplished by clicking the Read & Forecast button in the Data Manager. By default, Forecast Pro will automatically create forecasts using its Artificial Intelligence (AI) driven expert selection algorithm and reconcile the forecasts using a bottom-up approach.
- Save the results. This can vary depending upon your needs, but usually entails saving a numeric output file containing the forecasts and saving the project file. Consult Saving Your Work for details.
In addition to the above required steps, you may also:
- View the forecasts and other information graphically
- View on screen reports.
- View forecasts and other information numerically in the override grid and enter any desired changes and comments.
- Customize how the forecasts are generated by specifying the forecasting models and reconciliation techniques to use.