The current means of selecting an appropriate technique is often confused because:
1. The basic problem calling for a forecast is not always identified.
2. The application or purpose is not always clear.
3. The lists of forecasting techniques are ambiguous because they commonly do not:
a. Specify assumptions
b. Specify options for different types of input data
c. Fully identify the forecasting processes
d. Specify options for different types of forecast outputs.
4. Resource commitments, constraints, and available data are not made explicit.
5. Tradeoffs to obtain a high benefit/cost ratio are not considered.