The Forecasting Company - New foundation models for time series
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Accurate Predictions for a Dynamic World: The Forecasting Company’s Approach

The Forecasting Company, founded in 2024 and headquartered in Paris, France, is redefining the landscape of time series forecasting with its cutting-edge foundation models. The company, led by its active founders Joachim Fainberg and Geoffrey Negiar, focuses on developing advanced planning systems to solve intricate forecasting problems, starting with logistics. With a team size of just two, The Forecasting Company leverages its in-house expertise and innovative models to provide enterprises with precise and actionable forecasts that enhance operational decision-making.

Who are the Founders?

Joachim Fainberg, Founder & CTO

Joachim Fainberg, the co-founder and Chief Technology Officer, brings a wealth of experience in machine learning (ML) for speech and full-stack development. Holding a PhD in ML, Joachim has a diverse background that includes significant roles at prominent organizations. He interned at Sonos, where he developed an on-device wake word detector, and at Bloomberg, contributing to the development of a large Automatic Speech Recognition (ASR) system. His career also includes a full-time position at JPMorgan's Machine Learning Center of Excellence in New York. Additionally, Joachim has served as a team lead for ML/NLP at Consigli, a prop-tech startup, and as a senior algorithm engineer and full-stack developer at Vind AI, a SaaS company focused on designing offshore wind parks. His comprehensive expertise in machine learning and software development equips him to lead the technical innovations at The Forecasting Company.

Geoffrey Negiar, Founder & CEO

Geoffrey Negiar, the co-founder and CEO, spearheads The Forecasting Company with a vision to enhance enterprise operational decision-making through accurate forecasting. Geoffrey holds a PhD from UC Berkeley's Berkeley Artificial Intelligence Research (BAIR) lab. His professional journey includes building sophisticated forecasting systems at Amazon Forecasting Science in SCOT, engaging in ML research at Google Brain, and working on forecasting, optimization, and deep learning research at Bloomberg LP. Geoffrey's extensive experience in developing and implementing forecasting models makes him a pivotal force in driving the company's mission to provide precise and actionable forecasts for businesses.

What Makes The Forecasting Company's Models Unique?

The Forecasting Company's foundation models for time series are distinguished by their unparalleled ability to predict any time series with high accuracy. These models are meticulously designed to cater to fine-grained forecasts across various locations, ensuring precise regional predictions that can be crucial for businesses with widespread operations. One of the standout features of these models is their capability to incorporate covariates, which include a wide array of past, present, and future data points. This integration of multiple factors leads to forecasts that are not only easier to use but also significantly more accurate, addressing the dynamic needs of enterprises and enabling better-informed decision-making.

How Do Regional Forecasts Enhance Accuracy?

Regional forecasts are a critical component for businesses operating across multiple locations. The ability to generate accurate, fine-grained predictions tailored to specific regions can greatly influence operational efficiency and strategic planning. The Forecasting Company's models excel in this aspect by providing detailed insights into each location's unique characteristics. By delivering precise regional forecasts, the company enables enterprises to optimize their operations, allocate resources more effectively, and proactively address potential challenges. This level of granularity in forecasting ensures that businesses can make informed decisions that enhance overall performance and competitiveness.

What Role Do Covariates Play in Forecasting?

Covariates play an essential role in enhancing the accuracy and reliability of forecasts. The Forecasting Company's models are trained to incorporate a comprehensive range of covariates, which encompass historical data, current trends, and future projections. This holistic approach ensures that the models consider multiple influencing factors, resulting in more reliable and actionable predictions. By integrating covariates, the models provide a thorough and nuanced view of the data, enabling enterprises to make strategic decisions based on robust and well-rounded forecasts. This capability is particularly valuable in dynamic and complex environments where multiple variables can impact outcomes.

How Does The Forecasting Company Collaborate with Enterprises?

The Forecasting Company distinguishes itself from traditional API-based solutions by adopting a collaborative approach with its clients. Instead of merely offering an API, the company works closely with the data science teams and operators within enterprises to develop customized, enterprise-ready forecasting products. This hands-on collaboration ensures that the forecasting solutions are tailored to the specific needs and contexts of the business, enhancing their practicality and effectiveness. By partnering with clients, The Forecasting Company can integrate its advanced models seamlessly into existing systems, providing comprehensive support and ensuring that the solutions deliver maximum value and impact.

Why Focus on Logistics and Supply Chain Operations?

Logistics and supply chain operations are pivotal areas for many enterprises, and accurate forecasting in these domains can significantly influence a company's success. The Forecasting Company has strategically chosen to start with logistics and supply chain operations due to the high demand for precise and reliable forecasts in these fields. Effective forecasting in logistics and supply chain management can lead to optimized inventory levels, reduced operational costs, and improved customer satisfaction. By providing advanced forecasting solutions tailored to these critical areas, The Forecasting Company helps businesses streamline their operations, enhance efficiency, and maintain a competitive edge in the market.

What Experience Do the Founders Bring to The Forecasting Company?

Geoffrey Negiar's Experience

Geoffrey Negiar brings an extensive and impressive background in forecasting systems and machine learning research. At Amazon, he developed forecasting systems that played a crucial role in improving operational efficiency and decision-making. His work at Google Brain involved cutting-edge ML research, focusing on developing innovative approaches to forecasting and optimization. Geoffrey's tenure at Bloomberg LP further solidified his expertise in deep learning and forecasting, where he contributed to significant advancements in the field. His academic and professional achievements position him as a leading authority in time series forecasting, driving The Forecasting Company's mission to deliver exceptional forecasting solutions.

Joachim Fainberg's Experience

Joachim Fainberg's career is marked by notable contributions to machine learning and full-stack development. His work at Sonos and Bloomberg laid a strong foundation for his expertise in developing advanced ASR systems. At JPMorgan, Joachim played a pivotal role in the Machine Learning Center of Excellence, contributing to the development of state-of-the-art ML solutions. His leadership roles at startups like Consigli and Vind AI demonstrate his ability to innovate and drive technological advancements in diverse domains. Joachim's deep understanding of machine learning and his hands-on experience in software development make him an invaluable asset to The Forecasting Company, where he leads the technical initiatives and drives innovation.

How Does The Forecasting Company Aim to Transform the Industry?

The Forecasting Company is poised to transform the forecasting industry through its innovative foundation models and collaborative approach with enterprises. By addressing the specific needs of logistics and supply chain operations, the company aims to set new standards for accuracy and reliability in time series forecasting. Its models, designed to incorporate covariates and provide fine-grained regional forecasts, offer businesses unparalleled insights into their operations. The company's commitment to working closely with clients ensures that the forecasting solutions are not only technically advanced but also practically impactful, leading to improved operational decision-making and enhanced business performance. Through its innovative solutions and collaborative ethos, The Forecasting Company is set to revolutionize the forecasting landscape and drive significant advancements in the field.

What is the Future Vision of The Forecasting Company?

The Forecasting Company envisions a future where accurate and reliable forecasts are accessible to all enterprises, empowering them to optimize their operations and achieve greater efficiency. As the company continues to refine its models and expand its offerings, it aims to become a leader in the forecasting industry, setting benchmarks for innovation and excellence. With a strong foundation in machine learning and a commitment to collaboration, The Forecasting Company is well-positioned to drive the future of time series forecasting. The company's vision includes expanding its scope beyond logistics and supply chain operations, applying its advanced models to a broader range of industries and applications. By continually pushing the boundaries of what is possible in forecasting, The Forecasting Company aims to create a future where businesses can make data-driven decisions with confidence and precision, ultimately driving growth and success.