Triple S refers to the three components of a good forecast: it should be specific, measurable, and achievable. In other words, a good forecast should be clear about what it is predicting, should be quantifiable so that it can be evaluated, and should be realistic given the available data and resources.
| Component | Description | Example | Measurement | What Good Looks Like |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Specific | The forecast should clearly define what it is predicting, leaving no room for ambiguity or confusion. | Sales forecast for Product A | Units or revenue | The forecast specifies the exact product and the expected sales. |
| Measurable | The forecast should be quantifiable, allowing for objective evaluation and comparison against actual outcomes. | Projected market share for Q3 | Percentage or market share | The forecast includes a specific percentage or market share. |
| Achievable | The forecast should be realistic and attainable based on the available data, resources, and external factors influencing the forecasted event. | Projected monthly revenue growth of 10% | Percentage increase in revenue or amount | The forecast takes into account realistic growth rates and factors influencing revenue. |