WHY YOU SHOULD ATTEND

IBF's Immersive Training is a 2- or 3-day comprehensive, face-to-face program designed for planning professionals seeking a clear, practical understanding of demand planning, forecasting, and S&OP/IBP. Whether you’re new to the field or looking to sharpen your existing skills, this program will guide you through today’s best practices and the logic behind modern planning and forecasting software.

Led by the same experts who set global standards and train Fortune 500 companies, this hands-on training goes beyond formulas to deliver real-world learning you can apply immediately. You’ll learn why forecasts fail, how to fix them, and how to turn analytics into true business value.

Along the way, you’ll expand your professional network, gain valuable insights, and elevate your capabilities in forecasting, S&OP/IBP, demand planning, and analytics at a one-of-a-kind event, designed to transform how you plan and lead.

Days 1 & 2: Core Forecasting & Demand Planning Foundations

• Master industry-leading methods and approaches in demand planning and forecasting—then apply them through hands-on, real-world examples.
• Make smarter, data-driven decisions by producing more accurate forecasts that drive better fill rates, inventory turns, and cash flow.
• Unlock your software’s full potential—understand how it works, interpret outputs correctly, and generate meaningful insights.
• Prepare for IBF certification in a collaborative classroom setting, while networking with peers and industry experts.

Day 3: Next-Level Forecasting with Predictive Analytics & Big Data

• Explore advanced machine learning techniques—such as neural networks, cluster analysis, decision trees, and market basket analysis—to elevate your forecasting and planning capabilities.
• Develop hands-on expertise by using tools like online apps, Excel macros, Python, and R to build machine learning models, uncover demand drivers, and simulate event-based impacts.
• Apply predictive analytics and big data techniques to make smarter, forward-looking decisions that improve forecast accuracy and business outcomes.
• Gain cutting-edge skills in an immersive environment designed for demand planners and forecasters ready to implement next-level analytical methods.

BECOME A CERTIFIED PROFESSIONAL FORECASTER (CPF)

Use what you learn from this IBF event to become a Certified Professional Forecaster (CPF).

Simply select the CPF CERTIFICATION PACKAGE during check-out and gain access to the event, along with preparation materials, and three CPF Exams.

The CPF program is the gold standard in demand planning certification, identifying you as a value driver in demand planning, forecasting and S&OP. It places professionals in the elite group of forecasters, with many CPFs saying it helped them secure a new job, promotion and pay raise. Find out more about the CPF program, or register below.