18 Top sales forecasting methods explained – Choose the right one! 

Imagine if you could predict your sales with the same accuracy that Nate Silver predicted the 2008 U.S. Presidential Election. 

With accurate forecasting, you know exactly the: 

• Budget and workforce needed for a project 
• Number of leads to close for meeting the revenue goal 
• Demand for new products with precision 
• Inventory levels

Sales forecasting leverages historical data, market trends, and customer behavior to predict future revenue, letting you plan and stay ahead of the competition. 

Despite its importance, 67% of organizations lack a formal forecasting approach, missing out on crucial insights.

If you’re unsure which sales forecasting approach is ideal for your business, this blog covers the top 18 sales forecasting methods to help you master the art of accurate prediction. 

While achieving 100% accuracy is a myth, an ideal forecasting method and reliable data can simplify revenue prediction.  

Let’s first understand sales forecasting briefly.

What is sales forecasting and its methods? 

Sales forecasting is estimating future sales revenue over a specific period by analyzing historical sales data, market trends, and various external factors.  

Also known as demand forecasting, it helps businesses plan operations, manage inventory, allocate resources, and make informed strategic decisions.

For instance, accurate sales forecasts can save companies millions by preventing overproduction and ensuring optimal inventory levels for high-demand products.

There are two types of sales forecasting methods: Qualitative and Quantitative.

Let’s examine the pitfalls of inaccurate sales forecasting.

What are the impacts of inaccurate sales forecasting? 

Inaccurate sales forecasting can disrupt business growth, disrupting planning, operations, and execution. 

1. Resource allocation problems 

For any business to succeed, it must use its resources (human capital, financial assets, equipment, etc.) sustainably. Poor sales forecasts can result in overstaffing or budget misallocation, costing your business. 

2. Financial instability 

Overestimating sales may lead to excessive spending, while underestimating sales might result in insufficient funds for operational needs and investments. 

Additionally, inaccurate forecasts can lead to missing financial targets, affecting investor confidence.

3. Operational inefficiencies 

Inaccurate sales forecasts can cause misalignment in production schedules and supply chain operations, especially for manufacturing businesses.  

Further, this can lead to delays, increased costs, and inefficiencies that disrupt the entire business process. 

Also read: How to create a marketing budget for your manufacturing business? 

4. Inventory management issues 

Overestimating the demand leads to excess inventory, while underestimating demand causes stockouts.

5. Strategic decision-making flaws 

Poor forecasting can result in misguided strategic decisions, such as premature expansion into new markets or launching new products without adequate demand analysis.

This can waste resources and divert attention from more profitable areas. 

Future-proof your sales with Salesmate!

Stay ahead with our cutting-edge sales forecasting software that predicts sales trends and growth opportunities.

Start your free trial

18 Most used sales forecasting methods to accurate sales forecast

Each sales forecasting method is unique and varies based on factors such as the nature of the data, the time horizon being forecasted, and the specific goals of the forecasting process. 

Let’s get into these top sales forecasting techniques with examples that businesses are using. 

Type 1: Quantitative methods of sales forecasting 

Quantitative or statistical forecasting sales methods analyze historical data to identify trends and make objective predictions. 

Let’s get to know all the 12 sales forecasting techniques in detail: 

 1. Historical forecasting method

This forecasting method uses past sales data to predict future sales. It’s straightforward and effective in stable market conditions but relies heavily on the assumption that past performance is a good indicator of future results.

Further, the key factors impacting this sales forecast method include historical sales trends and seasonal patterns.

For instance, if a company sold $100,000 worth of products each month last year and expects a 10% increase, the forecast for the coming month would be $110,000.

When to use? 

Use this method when you have at least a year of past sales data and operate in a stable market.

2. Time series analysis (Trend analysis) 

Time series analysis involves regularly examining sales data to identify trends, patterns, and seasonal variations. 

Note that this sales forecasting method assumes that historical patterns and trends will continue. 

For example, if winter clothing sales increase every November and December, similar increases can be forecasted for the upcoming season.

Note that the accuracy of time series analysis depends on the quantity and quality of your historical data, seasonal patterns (regular fluctuations due to seasonal effects), and cyclic patterns (fluctuations influenced by economic cycles). 

When to use? 

With extensive, reliable historical sales data, especially in industries with predictable cycles like retail and eCommerce.

Interesting read:  A comprehensive guide to eCommerce marketing automation 

3. Regression analysis (including multivariate regression) 

Regression analysis is one of the powerful techniques of sales forecasting used to understand the relationship between:

• A dependent variable (like sales)
• Independent variables (such as advertising spend, economic indicators, or the number of sales calls).  

For instance, a car manufacturer forecasts sales based on advertising spend and economic conditions.

Multivariate regression extends this approach by considering multiple independent variables simultaneously to understand their combined effect on the dependent variable. 

Regression analysis can provide accurate sales forecasts if the relationships between variables are well understood and the data is reliable. The method’s accuracy improves by including relevant variables and a large dataset. 

When to use? 

It is best to use when you need to understand the logical relationship between multiple variables and their impact on sales.

4. Pipeline forecasting (Funnel forecasting) 

Pipeline forecasting is a strategic approach to predicting future sales by analyzing the entire sales pipeline.  

It involves evaluating each deal’s likelihood of closing based on historical data and specific factors such as sales representative performance and deal value. 

Here is an example for you: Imagine a sales pipeline with the following deals: 

Deal A at the proposal stage: $50,000 at 60% probability = $30,000

Deal B at the negotiation stage: $30,000 at 80% probability = $24,000

Deal C at the initial content stage: $20,000 at 30% probability = $6,000

Total expected revenue = $60,000

This calculation shows that, based on the current pipeline and the probabilities assigned to each stage, the expected revenue is $60,000.  

This method helps sales teams and management make informed decisions and allocate resources based on likely outcomes. 

When to use? 

With a well-defined sales process and a robust CRM, it is ideal for B2B companies with complex sales cycles.

You can’t miss reading this: How to define sales cycles for your business? 

5. Opportunity stage forecasting 

Opportunity stage forecasting involves predicting future sales by analyzing the various stages of sales opportunities within the pipeline. 

Each sales pipeline stage, from initial contact to closure, is assigned a probability of success based on historical data, as shown in the image below:

This method calculates the expected revenue by multiplying the deal value by the probability of closing at each stage. 

By summing up the expected revenue from all deals in the pipeline, the company can forecast its total quarterly sales, which we do in pipeline forecasting.

When to use? 

An excellent method for high-value enterprise sales requiring detailed tracking through various funnel stages.

Are sales bottlenecks slowing down your business?

Salesmate CRM offers customizable pipeline management to visualize and streamline your sales process to close deals faster.

Start your free trial

6. Lead-driven forecasting 

Lead-driven forecasting analyzes current leads and compares them to historically best-converting leads. For example, if webinar leads convert at 15%, 100 new leads might result in 15 new customers.

So, by examining conversion rates from various lead sources, businesses can assign values to new leads based on similar historical data. This analysis is also great for finding the right qualification criteria for an automated lead scoring system. 

This sales forecast method relies on having accurate and comprehensive data on lead sources and their historical performance. 

When to use? 

Ideal for companies relying on lead generation, such as SaaS and digital marketing firms.

Don’t miss out: Top 6 lead generation strategies in digital marketing

7. Length of sales cycle forecasting 

The length of sales cycle forecasting involves predicting future sales based on the average time it takes for deals to progress through the sales cycle.  

Therefore, businesses can forecast when current leads will likely close by understanding the duration from the initial contact to the final deal closing. 

For example, if a company’s average sales cycle is six months and a sales rep has been working on a deal for three months, the forecast suggests there are still three months before closing the deal.  

However, this method relies heavily on accurate data about previous sales and takes ages to complete.

When to use? 

Best for understanding the time to convert leads into customers, useful for companies with varying sales cycle lengths.

Stay on top of sales activities!?

Monitor and manage all sales activities in one place with Salesmate, ensuring accountability and productivity.

Start your free trial

8. Multivariable analysis forecasting 

Multivariable analysis forecasting is a comprehensive method integrating various factors from different forecasting techniques to predict future sales.  

It is one of the effective sales forecasting methods as it uses multiple variables, such as historical sales data, market trends, sales cycle length, individual rep performance, and lead source. Combining these factors allows businesses to generate a highly accurate and detailed sales forecast.  

For instance, when running a tech company, multivariable analysis using CRM(Customer Relationship Management) data can provide a more reliable forecast by considering factors like sales cycle length, win rates, and steps eps ‘performance in past projects. 

Also, by considering various factors influencing sales, this method reduces the risk of inaccuracies that might arise from single-variable forecasts. 

When to use? 

When multiple factors influence your sales, this method is ideal for businesses needing to analyze various independent variables, such as marketing spend and customer demographics. 

Drive predictable revenue with Salesmate CRM!

Our sales forecasting software lets you estimate your revenue precisely to ensure your team performs effectively.

Start your free trial

9. Bottom-up forecasting 

Bottom-up forecasting projects future performance based on detailed micro-level data. For example, an eCommerce company estimates orders from each sales channel and multiplies by the average order value to forecast revenue.

Focusing on granular details provides practical insights into different business segments, allowing for better resource allocation and decision-making.  

When to use? 

Use bottom-up forecasting for detailed, ground-level sales estimates. This method is great for companies with diverse product lines or multiple sales teams and provides a realistic and granular forecast. 

Insightful: The opposite of Bottom-up is top-down forecasting; it starts with the total market size and breaks it down to estimate individual segment performance, providing a macro-to-micro view of sales predictions.

10. Portfolio forecasting 

Portfolio forecasting predicts the performance of a collection of investments or projects by analyzing past data and current trends.

For instance, a project management firm might use historical data and forecasting models like Exponential Smoothing or ARIMA to predict future costs and resource needs for various projects. This helps the firm plan better and manage resources efficiently; preparedness nomic conditions are factored into the forecast to provide a well-rounded prediction. 

When to use? 

It is suitable for businesses with a wide range of products or services, balancing high and low performers within a portfolio.

Empower your team with Salesmate!

Equip your sales team with robust automation tools for productivity and better efficiency.

Start your free trial

11. Test-market analysis forecasting 

Test-market analysis forecasting predicts the success of a new product by introducing it to a limited, representative market segment.

For example, a beverage company tests a new flavor in a specific city to evaluate its reception. The insights gained from this test market are then used to forecast broader market success and make necessary product or marketing strategy adjustments. 

Factors influencing the accuracy of test-market analysis include selecting a representative test market, the size and duration of the test, and external variables like economic conditions and competitor actions.  

Collecting qualitative feedback and quantitative sales data provides deeper insights into customer preferences and potential areas for improvement. 

When to use? 

Perfect for new product launches or market expansion.

12. Consumption-based forecasting 

Consumption-based forecasting, also known as usage-based forecasting, predicts future revenue based on the actual usage of products or services. This method is particularly relevant for pay-as-you-go models.

It involves analyzing historical consumption data to forecast future usage, enabling companies to anticipate revenue flow, optimize pricing strategies, and better understand customer behavior.

For example, a cloud storage provider like Amazon Web Services forecasts future consumption by analyzing past usage patterns, allowing for resource adjustment, and identifying upselling opportunities.

When to use? 

Best for businesses with usage-based pricing models, like cloud services. This method helps manage resources and predict revenue flow effectively.

Set and crush sales targets with Salesmate!

Monitor, manage, and achieve your sales goals with our comprehensive goal management system.

Start your free trial

Type 2: 6 Most used qualitative methods of sales forecasting 

Qualitative sales forecasting uses expert judgment, intuition, and subjective data to predict future sales.  

Unlike quantitative methods that rely heavily on numerical data and statistical models, qualitative methods leverage insights from experienced professionals, market research, and customer feedback to provide a more nuanced and adaptable forecast. 

1. Expert opinion method 

The expert opinion method relies on insights from seasoned professionals. This intuitive method uses the judgment of executives and senior managers with extensive market knowledge. It is quick and effective but may be subject to biases.

2. Delphi method 

The Delphi method is quite a simple method that seeks to gather expert opinions through multiple rounds of questionnaires.

Experts respond to questions independently, and their responses are compiled and shared anonymously with the group. This process is repeated several times to converge on a consensus forecast. 

Using this method can be time-consuming and requires careful management to ensure effective results. 

3. Salesforce composite method 

The salesforce composite method collects sales estimates from the company representatives, offering ground-level insights. While valuable, it may be influenced by individual optimism or pessimism.

4. Buyer’s expectations (Market research)  

Market research, or expectations, involves gathering customer data through surveys, focus groups, and interviews.  

This qualitative sales forecasting method seeks to understand customer intentions and preferences, providing insights into future purchasing behavior.  

Here are the key factors that help in the accurate forecasting: 

Such research can be particularly useful when entering new markets or launching new products. However, significant resources and careful design are required to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the collected data. 

5. Scenario writing  

Scenario writing, or scenario analysis, involves creating detailed narratives about possible future environments and their impact on sales. Applicable in uncertain markets, this method prepares businesses for multiple possibilities, allowing for flexible strategies.

6. Historical analogy method 

The historical analogy method compares the product or market with similar past situations to predict future sales patterns.

It is useful when specific historical data is unavailable but assumes comparable influencing factors, which may not always be accurate.

Close more deals faster with Salesmate CRM!

Accelerate your sales cycle with automation to streamline workflows and focus more on closing deals.

Start your free trial

How do you pick the right sales forecasting method for you? 

Choosing the best sales forecasting method is the primary task for accurate, actionable forecasts that align with your current and future business needs.

Here are key steps to follow when selecting the ideal method/methods for sales forecasting:  

1. Understand your business goals and objectives 

The foremost step is to define what you want to achieve with your sales forecast – Are you aiming for inventory planning, setting sales targets, or managing cash flow?  

Your goals will influence the method of sales forecasting you choose.  

2. Assess the available past sales data 

Businesses with extensive historical data might benefit from quantitative techniques like historical forecasting and regression analysis. Also, ensure your historical sales data is correct.

If your business is new and past data is unavailable or limited, consider using qualitative methods such as expert opinion or Delphi. 

Interesting read: 5 Sales performance tracking reports that reveal everything about your team

3. Consider the complexity of your sales cycle 

You need to match sales forecasting methods to the complexity of your sales cycle. Simple cycles may only need straightforward methods, such as the length of sales cycle forecasting, while complex cycles might require advanced techniques, like multivariable analysis.

Also read: 9 Simple and effective ways to automate the sales process

4. Evaluate your resources and budget 

Advanced statistical models might require specialized software and expertise. Therefore, consider your budget and resources when evaluating various sales forecasting methods.

5. Analyze market conditions and trends 

Consider the market environment in which your business operates. Stable markets with predictable trends might benefit from quantitative methods based on historical data. 

In contrast, volatile or rapidly changing markets may require more flexible qualitative methods. 

6. Leverage technology and tools 

Leverage modern sales forecasting software and CRM systems to enhance precision and efficiency. A CRM with forecasting capability like Salesmate is a robust solution for data collection and leveraging sales data or predictions.

Following the above simple steps, you can choose the best sales forecasting methods to project your revenue goals accurately.

Eliminate guesswork with sales intelligence!

Salesmate provides data-driven insights to remove uncertainty from your sales strategies.

Start your free trial

How do you use your chosen method to perform sales forecasting? 

Accuracy in forecasting is possible only if you know how to use the method to forecast. Here’s a roadmap for you: 

1. Collect relevant data 

Gather past sales figures, customer demographics, market trends, and economic indicators to create comprehensive datasets.

2. Analyze the data for patterns 

Identify trends, seasonality, and correlations to understand underlying sales drivers.

3. Select the appropriate forecasting model 

Be clear about your chosen sales forecasting model. The top sales forecasting models—time series or regression analysis—have already been discussed.

4. Apply the model to make predictions 

Input your historical data into your sales forecasting method to generate forecasts for upcoming periods. 

5. Validate and adjust forecasts regularly 

Compare your estimates against actual sales data to check for accuracy. Analyze any discrepancies and refine your sales forecasting method to improve future projections. 

Further, you must regularly update your sales forecasting model to remain accurate and reliable.  

Take your sales forecasting to the next level!

Accelerate your sales with our free template for easy deal tracking and accurate revenue forecasting.

Start your free trial

How do you improve sales forecasting accuracy- Tips and tactics! 

If your forecasting is accurate, it can lead to better resource allocation, missed sales targets, and financial stability.

A study found that 80% of sales organizations have forecast accuracy below 75%, ideally between 90% and 95%.

To improve sales forecasting accuracy, follow these tips:

• Leverage historical data: Identify patterns and trends from your past sales data to predict future sales based on past performance.
• Maintain clean and consistent data: This tactic is essential as accurate and consistent data entry ensures accurate forecasts.
• Implement simple forecasting models: Start with basic models like regression analysis to build a foundation, then gradually integrate more complex techniques as needed. 
• Use advanced technology like AI: These cutting-edge technologies are robust to boost prediction accuracy by analyzing large datasets.
• Account for internal and external factors: Considering all key factors influencing predictions helps produce comprehensive forecasts.
• Conduct regular forecasting meetings: Regular reviews help adjust forecasts based on team insights.
• Create a sales pipeline action plan: Manage your sales pipeline to understand conversion rates and forecast the number of leads needed to meet goals. 
• Identify and analyze trends: Track customer behavior and buying patterns using tools to adapt strategies and improve forecast precision.
• Collaborate with other departments: Gather comprehensive insights from marketing, finance, and operations.
• Use multiple forecasting methods: Validate forecasts by using different methods of sales forecasting to increase accuracy.
• Inspect and coach: Regular reviews and coaching ensure the sales team focuses on accurate forecasting.

All the above sales forecasting tactics enhance your accuracy, ensuring more reliable and actionable business insights. 

Predict, perform, prosper!

With Predictive analytics and real-time sales insights, you can predict your sales accurately, perform at your best, and prosper in your market.

Start your free trial

Salesmate CRM – The best platform for sales forecasting! 

Salesmate is your comprehensive solution for business growth, offering personalized targeting, automation, and analytics.

Its built-in sales forecasting leverages historical data and predictive analytics to accurately forecast future sales. It provides real-time updates and actionable insights to set realistic targets and plan resources effectively.

Our Sales forecasting software categorizes data by reps, teams, periods, and pipeline stages, enabling you to identify bottlenecks and star performers, leading to smarter resource allocation and strategic planning.

Explore the top value features of Salesmate CRM:

• Web Forms: Capture promising leads directly from your website and get more details about them with CRM data enrichment.
• Lead Scoring: Focus on high-potential leads with lead-scoring software, ensuring your reps target the most promising opportunities.
• Sales Pipeline Management: Gain a clear view of your sales process with customizable pipeline stages to identify bottlenecks and prioritize your efforts on high-value opportunities.
• Omnichannel communication tools: Engage with customers across multiple channels, including Email, Text Messaging, VoIP system, and social media for effective communication.
• Sales Goals Tracking: Set and track sales goals for individuals and teams. Monitor progress in real-time, motivating your team to achieve and surpass their targets.
• Sales Activity Tracker: This tool tracks all sales activities, from calls and meetings to emails and tasks, ensuring no opportunity is missed.
• Sales Automation: Automate routine tasks like follow-up emails, task assignments, and data entry, freeing your team to focus on maximizing deal closing rates.
• Sales Sequences: You can automate your follow-up processes and ensure timely communication with prospects and customers.
• Sales Reporting: Sales managers can generate customizable detailed sales reports to identify trends for optimizing strategy.
• Sandy AI: Leverage Sandy AI Copilot to assist you with email writing, scheduling, call transcription, etc.
• Campaigns: Build personalized drip campaigns to nurture leads and guide prospects through your sales funnel, increasing engagement and conversion rates.
• Ticketing System: Streamline your customer support with integrated ticketing management. Track, manage, and resolve customer issues efficiently to enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Salesmate offers seamless integration with over 700 business apps and is highly customizable to meet your unique business needs. The Mobile CRM ensures that your team can access vital information and perform critical tasks on the go, maintaining productivity wherever they are.

Maximize your revenue potential!

Unlock your business's potential with Salesmate, a comprehensive CRM and automation solution that includes customer ticketing software.

Start your free trial

Conclusion 

Sales forecasting is crucial for businesses to set realistic targets and optimize performance.

If you ask us, “What are the three main sales forecasting techniques?” we suggest focusing on historical, opportunity stage, and qualitative forecasting. 

Choosing the right method based on your business needs and available data can significantly improve your ability to forecast sales accurately and make informed business decisions.

Further, utilizing advanced technology like a CRM with forecasting capabilities, such as Salesmate, can significantly enhance accuracy and efficiency by integrating real-time data and predictive analytics.

Frequently asked questions