Related Experiment Videos
Forecasting: which type is for you?
The American Journal of Medical Technology
|February 1, 1979
Summary
Effective laboratory management requires accurate forecasting. This report details the Delphi Method for external forecasts and internal methods like judge/jury, time series, and regression models for better laboratory planning.
Area of Science:
- Laboratory Management
- Operations Research
Background:
- Efficient laboratory management relies heavily on accurate forecasting of both external and internal conditions.
- Strategic planning is a critical function that is hampered without reliable predictive data.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss the successful Delphi Method for external forecasting of technological events.
- To cover internal forecasting methods including judge and jury, time series analysis, and regression models.
- To provide descriptions, accuracy, applications, costs, and references for each forecasting method.
Main Methods:
- Delphi Method for external technological forecasting.
- Judge and jury methods for internal forecasting.
- Time series analysis for internal forecasting.
- Regression models for internal forecasting.
Main Results:
- The Delphi Method is presented as a successful approach for external forecasting.
- Various internal forecasting techniques are described with their respective applications and costs.
- Information on the accuracy and detailed procedural references for each method is provided.
Conclusions:
- Accurate forecasting is essential for efficient laboratory planning and management.
- A range of methods, both external (Delphi) and internal (judge/jury, time series, regression), are available to support laboratory forecasting needs.
- Understanding the characteristics of each method allows for informed selection based on accuracy, cost, and application.