What does regression analysis help to predict?

Regression analysis is a statistical method used to assess the relationships between variables, primarily focusing on how the dependent variable changes when one or more independent variables are altered. In this context, predicting sales based on historical data relationships is where regression analysis excels. It utilizes past sales data to model and identify trends and correlations, allowing businesses to forecast future sales performance based on historical patterns.

By considering various factors, such as pricing, marketing efforts, seasonality, and economic indicators, regression analysis helps in estimating how these elements influence sales. This predictive capability is especially valuable for planning, budgeting, and strategic decision-making within an organization.

While other options relate to broader market or customer aspects, they do not specifically leverage the primary use of regression analysis in the context of sales forecasting. Thus, option B represents the most accurate application of regression analysis in predicting outcomes.