Another Excel question

[BenzComander]

We have some turnover data in a column in Excel, and have drawn a simple line graph to represent it.

Which of the trendlines should we use to predict future turnover?

Thanks,

 

[Tilly]

the best looking one



































Sorry

 

[BenzComander]

the best looking one



































Sorry

HA Ha Ha!!! You get todays narna:bannana:

 

[Mozzer]

Brilliant

 

[imadoofus]

You might be better off using a formula alongside your existing data, rahter than a line on the graph.

FORECAST = Project values
TREND = Project values that fit a straight trend line
GROWTH = Project values that fit an exponential curve
LINEST = Calculate a straight line from existing data
LOGEST = Calculate an exponential curve from existing data

In truth, what Tilly said isn't that daft. In other words, any forecast or prediction of this type cannot be purely mathematical. It's always going to need a degree of abstract interpretation. Try each of the functions (or trendlines on the graph), and go with whichever looks right, because you've got to have at least some idea of your expectations.


PJ

 

[masqueraid]

Special Award Needed!!

Best answer ever! Laughed out loud!

(ps. Trendlines in Excel)

 

[Mozzer]

I guess it depends on how bullish you are feeling about the future.

I have just played with a few numbers and put the same data in 4 graphs using 4 different trends and each tells a different story about "Company A" and each has its merits and disadvantages.

 

[Tilly]

Anyway... moving on, what day is Dragons Den on? lol