The machine learning predictive forecaster in Workday Adaptive Planning allows users to leverage machine learning to make predictions for financial planning and analysis. After setting up the initial requirements for a predictive forecaster, including name, sheet, forecast version, start period, end period, accounts, reference data and algorithm users may choose to add a lever modeled sheet to enhance the prediction.
Step 1: Understanding Lever Sheets
First determine the forecast sheet to use. Next review the levels, accounts, and dimensions of the forecast sheet that will be incorporated into the lever sheet. Identify the smallest timer period represented by the forecast sheet.
Lever sheets are designed to hold regressor data that influences the machine learning forecasts. These sheets can be used only with specific algorithms and the values that are inputted into a lever sheet directly impact the algorithm;s calculation, which is reflected in the forecast sheet.
Step 2: Create Lever Sheet
Navigate to Modeling > Level Assigned Sheets > New Sheet > Modeled Sheet (blank modeled sheet)
Under Columns and Levels add in a field called Account as a text field. You can also add in dimensions if those dimensions exist on the forecast sheet. Next, drag the timespan into the last row. Lastly, choose settings under sheet properties and select the time stratum with the smallest time period.
Step 3: Entering Data
Lever sheets contain data that influence the machine learning forecasts for a specific sheet. The values entered in the lever sheet modify the algorithm’s calculations by levels, account, time period, and dimensions (if applicable). Choose the sheet used for levers and make sure the same version as the forecasted data is selected. Next choose add row and enter account, level, and dimension. Repeat to add all necessary rows. Enter data in the timer periods between start and end. Save the sheet.
When creating the predictive forecaster make sure to select the lever sheet that aligns with your forecast. Only the algorithms AutoFit, Orbit DLT, and Prophet allow lever sheets to be added. This additional sheet can help users create an even more fine tuned prediction for data on standard or cube sheets.
Revelwood is an award-winning, Platinum Solution Provider for Workday Adaptive Planning. We build solutions for the Office of Finance that minimize your risk by seamlessly incorporating business analytics into your everyday thinking. By combining the software with our best practices and out-of-the-box applications, we help businesses achieve their full potential with Workday Adaptive Planning.
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