Publications
Publications
- January 2024 (Revised February 2024)
- HBS Case Collection
Data-Driven Denim: Financial Forecasting at Levi Strauss
By: Mark Egan
Abstract
The case examines Levi Strauss’ journey in implementing machine learning and AI into its financial forecasting process. The apparel company partnered with the IT company Wipro in 2017 to develop a machine learning algorithm that could help Levi Strauss forecast its revenues and earnings. The CFO of Levi Strauss, Harmit Singh, believed incorporating AI and machine learning into Levi Strauss’ forecasting process would make the process more efficient and the resulting forecasts more accurate. While the algorithm led to more accurate forecasts, there were challenges to implementing and interpreting the AI-produced forecasts.
Keywords
Investor Relations; Forecasting; Machine Learning; Artificial Intelligence; Apparel; Corporate Finance; Forecasting and Prediction; AI and Machine Learning; Digital Transformation; Apparel and Accessories Industry; United States
Citation
Egan, Mark. "Data-Driven Denim: Financial Forecasting at Levi Strauss." Harvard Business School Case 224-029, January 2024. (Revised February 2024.)