Getting started with Forecasting

  1. From the menu, select Datasets > Properties .
  2. On Dataset Properties, select the Forecast tab.
  3. To enable Forecast Calculation , select DMP Forecast Calculation.
  4. On the Calculation Measures tab, select the Data Type for Demand and for Calculated Forecast.
  5. On the Forecast Time Points tab, ensure that the calculation time points are setup correctly.
    See Enabling Statistical Forecasting.
    Note: Algorithm fit initialization (init point) is less than or equal to the Forecast point, typically the current period.

    DMP uses the demand from Algorithm fit initialization (init point) to the period just before Forecast point as history for the forecast model fitting and writes the forecast from Forecast point into the later periods depending on the extrapolation periods of the forecast method itself.

    DMP forecast calculations are based on the data loaded into the model for a favorite view. To run all forecast algorithms, include a range of periods in the time range. In general, include at least 1 year before and 1 year after the Forecast point (time mark is Today). You can include more than 1 year of history to improve accuracy. In some cases, forecasting 1½ years or 2 years ahead is appropriate.

    The calculated forecast measure is updated even if it is not updatable as a data type in Formats. This behavior applies even when the CTH is not defined or does not include all periods, and it does not cause issues. The calculated forecast is written directly to the detailed cells, even when the view model is an aggregated favorite view, and is distributed and saved at the detailed cell level.

  6. Click OK.
  7. Access the favorite view of the dataset selected for forecasting. When forecasting is enabled for the dataset, these three key columns are available:
    • Forecast Method
    • Competitive
    • Winner
    Ensure the required columns are included in the view.
  8. Right-click the selected the lines to apply the Forecast Method and select Change Forecast Method.
  9. Select the Forecast Method to use from the list.
    Note: You can view the Forecast Method Properties by clicking the button beside the drop-down.
  10. Click OK.
    To view the results in a chart on the workbench, see Split Charts.
  11. Right-click the selected the lines to recalculate the forecast and select Recalculate Forecast.