This column discusses gauging how forecastable a product line is, and why it is important for forecasters to know. Since I first wrote about the concept over 16 years ago, in conjunction with discussing the importance of understanding demand variations, others have advanced the concept now termed “forecastability.” Knowing it for your product line can help improve your forecasts over time, as well as your company’s plans. However, another important reason is that someday it might help you keep your forecasting job.

From Issue: Supply Chain Disruptions: Causes, Impacts, and Mitigation Strategies
(Fall 2015)