Questions for the Case Study

1. Plot the data and describe what you see. What does it mean and how would you use the information from the plot to help you develop a forecast?

2. Use at least two different methodologies to develop as accurate a forecast for the demand as possible. Use each of those methods to project the next four months demand.

3. Which method from question 2 is "better"? How do you know that?

4. How, if at all, could we use Jan's knowledge of the market to improve the forecast? Would it be better to forecast in quarterly increments instead of monthly? Why or why not?

5. Are there other possible approaches that might improve Jan's operation and situation? What would they be and how could they help?

6. Has Jan's operation grown too large for her to control well? Why or why not?

What would you suggest she do? What additional information would you suggest she look for to helphersituation?