Definition
Actions against "predicts": Releases are only authorized for shipment, and projections are not.
In detail
Release is the action opposite to forecast; it refers to formally authorizing shipment or production. Only a Release is a true execution instruction; a forecast is merely a planning reference. In the supply chain system, forecasts still drive material preparation and holding—agreements often require suppliers to hold at least 30% finished goods based on monthly forecasts; Release solves the question of "who authorizes the shipment step"—only a Release is shipment authorization, a forecast is not. It differs from a forecast in that a forecast is an estimate while a Release is a commitment. A Release typically produces a shipping order, production work order, or kanban signal, and is the trigger point of a Pull System.
Example in practice
The buyer issues a Release Form to the supplier weekly, authorizing the quantity that can be shipped that week; the supplier prepares materials in advance based on the monthly forecast and holds at least 30% finished goods, but can only actually ship after receiving the Release Form. This way the forecast still supports stocking efficiency, while preventing the supplier from rushing shipments on its own based on the forecast.