The transmission of a signal from a earlier to an later stage. As a control mechanism, it acts on expected rather than actual performance. Cf.
feedback.
Based on inputs, actual processes are simulated and preparation made for the predicted outcome(s) eg. a circus-fugitive constrictor's stomach swelling to accomodate its snack days before it slithers down to the farm and realises that, being as there's no sheep and all, it will just have to make do with one of those bald things instead.