In general, the run rate uses the current financial information, such as present sales and present revenue, to forecast performance. As it extrapolates the current financial information and performance there is an implied assumption that the present financial environment will not change significantly in the future. The median line should now be flat, as shown below. The run chart can now be analyzed using the rules described by Perla, Provost, and Murray (2011)1. 1 Perla R, Provost L, Murray S (2011). The run chart: a simple analytical tool for learning from variation in healthcare processes, BMJ Quality and Safety, 20, 46-51. A run rate is basically using past information to predict the future, it can be useful but often is used badly and therefore gives incorrect answers. The more historic data you have, the better predictions you can make going forward. If you have a particularly seasonal sales pattern then bear that in mind!