2. Based on the data patterns, apply all of the following possible forecasting models: linear trend forecast, trend and seasonal forecast with dummy variables, and moving average forecast with periods k=2 and k=4. Explain why these methods may or may not be used for forecasting in this case.

3. Utilize Excel to identify the best forecasting model among the four models discussed in question 2 based on MAE and MAPE. Create a table with forecast accuracy measures MAE and MAPE for each of the four forecasting models. Apply the best forecasting model to forecast inventory in all 4 quarters of 2021.

4. Answer the question from the case study: should DistCo acquire more warehouse capacity in 2021? (Hint: will the forecasted number of cases in the 4th quarter of 2021 be close to or greater than 292,000-294,000 cases)

D C