Forecasting as highlighted by Heizer and Render (2014) is the science of predicting future events and may be based on historical and demand driven data. 2.1 Identify and analyse the features that distinguish medium and long range forecasts from short range forecasts. (10 marks) 2.2 The information provided relates to the room registrations at Msisi Hotel for the past 8 years. In order to project future demand the management is interested in determining the mathematical trend of guest registration. This will help the management in determining whether future expansion is warranted. Table 1.1: Msisi Hotel Registrations Year (x) 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Room Registrations (y) 17 16 16 21 20 20 23 25 CONCO i. Given the data on Table 1.1, develop a least squares equation (trend equation) relating room registrations to time. (11 marks) ii. What would be the forecasted room registrations for year 9? (4 marks)