Kriteeriumiks

Kriteeriumiks is a theoretical framework for structuring and evaluating decisions by transforming qualitative criteria into transparent, auditable decision rules. It aims to bridge qualitative judgements and quantitative analysis by embedding criteria within a formal mapping and scoring system.

The term combines kriteerium (criterion) with the suffix -iks, used in various languages to denote a field, system, or approach. The concept has appeared in contemporary discussions of decision analysis and ethics, where scholars explore how criteria can be consistently translated into actionable metrics and how such translations affect accountability.

Core concepts include kriteerium maps, which link criteria to measurable indicators; evaluation scales for each indicator; an aggregation rule to produce an overall score; and a governance layer for versioning and accountability. A kriteeriumiks model emphasizes transparency, traceability, and the ability to audit how decisions emerge from criteria.

Methodology typically follows a structured process: goal clarification with stakeholder input; elicitation and definition of criteria; construction of kriteerium maps; scoring using predefined scales; aggregation into an overall decision value; sensitivity and scenario analyses; and iterative refinement to improve reliability.

Applications and variants span policy assessment, product development, and AI risk evaluation, where understanding how criteria influence outcomes matters. Variants include soft kriteeriumiks for qualitative judgments and hard kriteeriumiks for quantitative metrics; some practitioners emphasize documentation, auditing, and explainability.

Criticism centers on potential overemphasis on quantification, the risk of mis-specifying criteria, and possible fragmentation with established methods such as multi-criteria decision analysis. Proponents argue kriteeriumiks offers a disciplined route to accountability and clarity in complex decision processes.

See also: Criteria, Multi-criteria decision analysis, Decision theory.