Planning and Controlling the Supply Chain

Four Primary Forecasting Techniques The primary forecasting techniques that Bronson Methodist Hospital uses varies with the ongoing processes of building, implementing, evaluating and the never-ending improvements that are made in each forecast models that are consistent throughout the organization. Bronson hospital focuses on using forecasting techniques that have data that is readily available, can be performed in house, easy to understand and the forecasting methods are reasonable (Harrelson and McClurkan 2007). Listed below are the four forecasting methods that are utilized within Bronson Methodist Hospital and will reflect how each of the elements is beneficial to the management of the organization (Harrelson and McClurkan 2007).
Economical
One of the most important parts of forecasting for Bronson hospital is the economical aspect especially with the economy struggling and companies attempting to meet the everyday demands of managing their bills (Harrelson and McClurkan 2007). Bronson tends to focus on managing the provisions that are required for each unit and office by sustaining low costs for the supplies, by eliminating unnecessary waste from the kitchen and units, implementing menus that will stretch further for consumption and taking control of the portions that are served. Another method is keeping the energy costs low by turning off or down unnecessary usage of lights (Harrelson and McClurkan 2007).
Technology
Bronson Hospital strives to keep the current software that is available at all times to ensure that all of the computers are working efficiently as well as effectively. IT also maintains the skills for troubleshooting any viruses or complications that may arise with the usage of new software. This type of forecasting can consist of curve fitting, and s-shaped curves models that entail data for technology that is new and for long range forecasting.
Demand
At Bronson hospital there is a constant demand and drive for

References: Beasley J E (n.d.) “Just-in-time” Retrieved June 23, 2009 from http://people.brunel.ac.uk Chase, R. B., Jacobs, F. R., & Aquilano, N. J. (2006). Operations Management for Competitive Advantage (11th ed.). New York, NY: McGraw-Hill Irwin. Harrelson, Katie & McClurkan, Mac (2007). Innovative Management: 2005-2007. Journal of Innovative Management, 12 (4), 4 – 58. Retrieved May 25, 2009 at http://www.bronsonhealth.com. McNamara, C. (1997-2009). “Operations Management” Retrieved May 30, 2009 from http://managementhelp.org