Creating Graphs using Moving Annual Totals (MATs)

Overview

When creating a Graph in IFP, there are many different options you can use to determine the look of the graph.

Moving Annual Totals (MATs) allow you to view a series of points showing the total value for the past 12 months. This provides a smoothed graph allowing easy identification of the general trend for an item.

Basic Monthly Graphs

Many products will show seasonal patterns and random monthly fluctuations in demand that make it difficult to identify the underlying trend. A good example, based upon monthly actual data is shown below:

MAT Graphs

To create an MAT graph, simply change the Data to Show  from Basic Monthly Data to Moving Annual Totals on the Custom File Selection screen.

This will generally give you a much smoother graph allowing you to determine the underlying direction of the trend.

Note: 4 years of data are required to produce a MAT graph for 3 years.