I thought this was hilarious – Geoffrey’s writing has to be among the top-5 blogs I read:

Let’s face it: most sales forecasting is a complete joke. Here’s the routine:

1. The sales manager asks for the forecast.
2. The reps make a guess at what will close, then subtract ten percent, just in case.
3. The sales manager takes the forecast and raises it ten percent because he knows the reps are fudging.
4. The sales manager gives the forecast to top management.
5. Top management changes the numbers to match analyst expectations.
6. Manufacturing ignores the numbers and orders raw materials based on last year’s actual sales.
7. Actual sales, when they happen, turn out to bear no resemblance to any of the above.
8. Prior to earnings announcements, accountants jigger the books so that they resemble the forecast.