This document discusses forecasting, which involves analyzing past and present events to estimate future outcomes. It defines forecasting as systematically predicting future events based on analysis. Several forecasting techniques are described, including time series analysis, regression analysis, surveys, and expert opinions. The key benefits of forecasting are facilitating planning and coordination. However, forecasts may be limited by faulty assumptions, lack of reliable data, uncertainty in outcomes, and costs of conducting the analysis. Forecasting provides the basis for planning future actions but does not determine decisions or stimulate activity like the planning process does.