Forecasting Demand: Data-Driven Approaches to Predictability & Planning

Demand forecasting has always been challenging in publishing—and in today’s environment, it can feel nearly impossible.

As publishers head into the critical holiday season, this Lunch & Learn will take a practical look at what actually drives demand, how (and whether) it can be forecast, and what to do when it can’t.

This session will explore questions such as:

• If not reviews, what really drives book sales today?
• The retailer perspective on demand signals and buying behavior
• How publishers and printers can incorporate retail insights into forecasts
• When demand is forecastable—and when it isn’t
• Strategies for planning production and inventory when predictability breaks down

Designed as an interactive discussion, the conversation will focus on data-informed approaches that support decision-making without requiring perfect information. Participants will share perspectives, challenge assumptions, and examine practical ways to manage risk and service levels heading into the busiest part of the year.

As with all BISG Supply Chain Lunch & Learns, the session will be participatory, with time for questions, shared experiences, and real-world examples.

Featured speakers to be announced!

About the Supply Chain Lunch & Learn Series

BISG's Supply Chain Lunch & Learns are always highly interactive, so you'll have a chance to contribute at the session. If you have any specific questions you'd like us to cover in this Lunch & Learn, you may send them in advance to info@bisg.org or simply add them to the chat during the session.

To allow participants to speak—and not just type questions—these sessions are conducted in a Zoom meeting (rather than webinar) format. Please take a moment to ensure that your microphone is muted until you'd like to contribute. While we encourage you to attend the live session, the conversation will be recorded and shared with registrants after the session takes place.