LinForecastBY

Syntax

LinForecastBY(Year1, Value1, Year2, Value2,... YearN, ValueN) or
LinForecastBY(ExcelFile, ExcelRange)
LinForecastBY(Branch:Variable)
LinForecastBY(FirstYear, LastYear)

See also: Using Time-Series Functions and Specifying Excel File and Range Parameters,  LinForecast.

Summary

Forecasts future values based on a linear regression (y=mx+c) of historical data. Regression is forced through base year value.

Summary

Linear forecasting is used to forecast future values based on a time-series of historical data. The new values are predicted using linear regression assuming a linear trend ( y = mx +c) where the Y term corresponds to the variable to be forecast and the X term is years. Linear forecasting is most suitable in cases where exponential growth in values is not expected: for example when forecasting how market shares or technology penetration rates might change over time.

Use this function with caution. You may need to first use a spreadsheet or some other package to test the statistical validity of the forecast (i.e. test how well the regression "fits" the historical data). You can also use the LEAP's built-in statistical functions such as RSquared, StandardError, and Observations to help with this task.  Moreover, bear in mind that future values may be markedly different from historical ones, particular if structural or policy shifts in the economy such as changing energy policies are likely to have an impact on future trends.

Typically, you will enter this function in your Current Accounts data and use it to forecast values for the base year and forward. If your historical data includes a value for the base year, it will be included in the regression, and the values will be forced through the known base year value. If you do not wish to force the regression through the base year value (for example if you think the base year value is not typical of long term trends) then use the LinForecast function.

The syntax LinForecastBY(FirstYear, LastYear) is a special syntax that can only be used in scenarios (not in Current Accounts).  This syntax generates a forecast in a scenario based on the data in Current Accounts.  Only the values between and including FirstYear and LastYear are used as input to the regression that generates the forecast.  FirstYear must be on or after the base year. LastYear must be before the first scenario year. LastYear must be at least three years after FirstYear.