Time-Series Forecasts Several time-series forecasts exist that can be used to measure historic data and provide a basis for projecting future requirements. One example of how HR uses these tools is in the area of staffing levels; but they’re useful in analyzing many other areas as well, including benefit utilization, compensation trends, and the effectiveness of a recruiting system. For purposes of discussion, staffing-level analysis is used to demonstrate how each of the following tools is used:Trend Analysis Trend analysis compares the changes in a single variable over time; over a period of years, they generally move upward or downward. For example, this tool can reveal information about seasonal staffing requirements, which are periods of time within a one-year period that regularly vary from the general trend. Cycles, periods of time during which a pattern of performance is shown (growing, peaking, declining, and plateauing at the lower level), also become apparent in a trend analysis.