A Forecasting Support System for Temperature-Controlled Transport

Wilfried Despagne describes a Web-based forecasting support system, “Horizons,” that was designed for a French subsidiary of a European temperature-controlled-transport group. The major challenge was the adaptation of the system to more than 70 different transportation hubs, requiring a significant level of automation and a highly transparent user interface. This article considers the key components of the design and implementation of Horizons, and the factors that led to its successful deployment. Wilfried’s work demonstrates that a good forecasting-support system requires much more than development of forecasting models: A user-friendly graphical interface, a supportive organizational culture, and the know-how of the decision-makers all play a critical role. Copyright International Institute of Forecasters, 2011