Decision analysis uses subjective forecasts as a prime input for specifying 'best' decisions.

I frequently use its published data and forecasts and they're usually correct.

Many economists recommend using forecasts, rather than earnings from the past year, to calculate P/E ratios.

Using financial forecasts, the sales executives help to ensure that any drug the scientists are developing has a ready market.

Other Presidents, too, have used optimistic forecasts, usually with Congress's assent, and little harm came of it.

Many of these companies are currently using assumption-based forecasts with limited accuracy.

Sometimes if there are bombers in the area close by, launch crews won't use the radar and just launch using forecasts or old data.

If Chrysler uses overly optimistic forecasts, it may face losing the difference between the projected and actual value of the used cars.

But other analysts argued that First Bank was using unusually optimistic forecasts of the potential for cost-cutting and profit growth.

Even using grim forecasts of potential costs, it appears that a merger would be a good, solid boost to Federated's earnings over the long haul.