Criterionan

Criterionan is a theoretical framework for decision making that centers on explicit, auditable criteria. It is used to compare alternatives in fields such as policy analysis, urban planning, software procurement, and risk assessment. The approach requires defining a set of evaluative criteria, establishing how each criterion will be measured, and determining the relative importance of criteria before evaluating options. Scores are assigned to each option for each criterion, then combined into an overall assessment using a transparent weighting scheme. The method emphasizes traceability: the rationale for each score and the overall ranking can be traced back to defined criteria and cited evidence.

Etymology and origin: The term combines criterion with the suffix -an to denote an adherent, system, or framework. It was introduced in academic discourse in the early 2020s by researchers exploring formalized decision-support methods, and has since been used to describe both processes and roles within decision environments.

Methodology: Process steps typically include establishing criteria, normalizing scales for comparability, assigning weights, scoring options, and aggregating scores while conducting sensitivity analysis. The criterionan approach accommodates both quantitative measures and qualitative judgments, and it supports iterative refinement as new information becomes available.

Applications and examples: In urban planning, a criterionan analysis might compare proposals on efficiency, equity, environmental impact, cost, and resilience. In procurement, it can assess performance, maintainability, and security. In ethics and governance, it helps structure justification around principle-based criteria and stakeholder values.

Limitations and relation to other theories: Critics note potential rigidity, sensitivity to the initial selection of criteria, and the risk that important values are overlooked if not captured by the criteria. Proponents emphasize inclusive criteria selection, transparent documentation, and ongoing stakeholder engagement. Criterionan shares aims with multi-criteria decision analysis and normative decision theory but foregrounds normative justification and auditability.