Eficaç

Eficaç is a coined term used in some Portuguese-language business and design writings to describe an outcome that is both effective and efficient. It is not an established word in standard dictionaries, but it appears in blogs, white papers, and practical guides as a shorthand for optimal results.

Etymology and meaning

The word is typically treated as a portmanteau blending eficaz (effective) and eficiente (efficient). In this usage, eficaç connotes that a solution achieves its goals with minimal waste of time, money, or resources, rather than merely delivering features or outputs.

Contexts and usage

In product development, an eficaç solution would meet user needs (efficacy) while staying within budget and schedule (efficiency). In public policy, it would produce intended social outcomes at a reasonable cost, with sustainable processes. The term is most often found in advisory material, managerial frameworks, and strategic discussions that emphasize balancing impact with resource stewardship.

Relation to established terms

Eficaç sits between the established concepts of eficácia (the ability to achieve desired results) and eficiência (the ratio of outputs to inputs). As a label, it seeks to capture the combined value of outcomes that are both meaningful and resource-conscious, though without standardized criteria for measurement.

Criticism and limitations

Because it is not standardized, the term can be vague and open to subjective interpretation. Critics argue that combining two distinct concepts under a single label may obscure traceable metrics and hinder comparability across projects.

See also

eficácia, eficiência, desempenho, gestão de recursos, inovação.