An all-new textbook for fashion professionals interested in improving forecasting abilities. This unique book combines the theories of fashion changes with the process of organizing and analyzing the information and synthesizing the data into actionable forecasts. It integrates traditional and electronic approaches to the process of forecasting at each stage of research, organization, analysis, interpretation, and presentation. By observing forecasting practices throughout the textile and apparel industry, Brannon looks at the complete process, including how forecasters sort hype from directional signals, at short-term tactical decisions and long-term strategic planning, and at the executive information systems for presenting and implementing the forecast. Recognizing that students are executives in training, the author provides the reader with the opportunity to rehearse these practices through case studies and forecasting activities.