Doelveld

Doelveld is a Dutch term that refers to the domain or field of goals, targets, or areas of focus for a person, project, organization, or policy. The word is a compound of doel (goal, aim) and veld (field, area), and it is used to describe the scope within which actions are planned and outcomes are pursued.

In planning and evaluation contexts, het doelveld helps to define boundaries and align activities with an overarching strategy. It specifies which objectives are pursued, which stakeholders are involved, and which indicators will be used to measure progress. By naming a doelveld, organizations can focus resources and assess performance against the defined aims.

In governance, policy making, and project management, the doelveld often encompasses several subfields or themes, such as quality improvement, sustainability, or innovation. Clear articulation of the doelveld supports communication, accountability, and prioritization, and it facilitates monitoring and reporting on results.

Etymologically, doelveld combines doel (goal or target) with veld (field or area), reflecting its use as a descriptor of the intended scope of work. While the term is common in Dutch planning and management discourse, its exact meaning can vary by sector and organization, and it is frequently accompanied by concrete goals, milestones, and metrics.

See also: doelstelling, scope, domain, field, performance indicators.