Selecting Predefined Forecast Methods

  To select predefined forecast methods:

1. Select Structured.

   Note:

   Ensure you are on the correct tab when you click OK. If you are on the Structured tab, Structured values apply. If you are on the Freeform tab, the Freeform formula applies.

2. In Forecast, select a method.

   The method determines the format of your input data.

   See Entering Data for Predefined Forecast Methods.

3. Optional: Select Input is:

   The input for the account being forecast is Annual or Periodic. Useful when forecasting items like interest rates.

4. Optional: Select an associated account.

   • Use Associated Account to select the value to use for the Associated Account's output if you select one of these forecast methods:

     • Percent of Another Account

     • Percent of a Prior-Period Account

     • Percent of a Change in Another Account

     • Percent of Average Account

     • Days

     • Turns

     • Absolute Multiple of Another Account

     • Default Multiple of Another Account

   • Browse to the account.

   • In the Take Associated Account’s output, select the value to use for the Associated Account's output:

     • Current period

     • Prior period

     • Change in

     • Average

5. Select Match Dimensions to match the dimension of the associated account with the dimension of the account being forecast.

   For example, to forecast Cost of Goods Sold/Product XX/Region YY as a percent of Sales/Product XX/Region YY, choose Sales as the associated account and check Match Dimensions.

6. Optional: If you are forecasting a balance account, you can forecast the ending balance or the change in the ending balance from the prior period (Change in).

7. Optional: Select Advanced for more options.

   See SpecifyingAdvanced Forecast Method Options.

8. Click OK.