Which statement regards independent demand items in forecasting?

The statement that independent demand items should be forecast is correct because independent demand refers to the demand for finished goods or products that are not tied to the demand for other items. These items are typically influenced by external factors such as market trends, consumer preferences, and seasonal variations. Forecasting independent demand items is essential for effective inventory management, as it helps organizations anticipate customer needs, optimize stock levels, and ensure product availability. Accurate forecasting allows businesses to align their supply chain operations with expected demand, thus reducing the risk of stockouts or overstock situations.

The other statements do not accurately reflect key principles of forecasting. For instance, while forecasts can provide valuable insights, they are inherently uncertain and often require regular updates to remain relevant. Similarly, while it’s possible to forecast for families of products, it is not standard practice to build up forecasts solely from individual product forecasts without considering broader market trends. Lastly, claiming that forecasts are almost always accurate contradicts the nature of forecasting itself, which involves estimates and probabilities rather than certainty.