Define "forecast error."

Forecast error is defined as the difference between actual demand and the forecasted demand. This measurement is crucial in supply chain management and master planning, as it provides insight into how accurately a company can predict future demand based on available data.

Assessing forecast error helps organizations improve their forecasting techniques, leading to better inventory management and reduced costs associated with surplus stock or stockouts. By understanding this metric, companies can analyze trends, make adjustments to their forecasting processes, and ultimately enhance customer satisfaction through more reliable product availability.

This concept is particularly important in environments with fluctuating demand, as even small discrepancies can lead to significant financial impacts. In contrast, the other options do not pertain to the concept of forecasting at all; they relate to different aspects of supply chain performance, such as order fulfillment times, sales figures, or overall profitability. These metrics, while important, do not capture the essence of what forecast error represents in the context of demand planning.