Sales forecasting involves predicting future sales volumes by analyzing factors like past sales data, market trends, and input from sales teams. There are quantitative models that use historical sales figures and qualitative models based on expert opinions. The sales forecasting process involves defining target market segments, choosing an appropriate forecasting model, collecting and validating sales data, and applying the chosen model to generate a sales forecast. An accurate sales forecast allows businesses to better plan production, inventory, staffing needs and more.