Sektorvariation

Se сtorvariation is a statistical concept used in economics to quantify cross-sector dispersion in economic activity within a region or dataset. It summarizes how unevenly a chosen metric—such as value added, employment, or output—is distributed across sectors.

Calculation can be performed in several equivalent ways. One common approach is to take the standard deviation of sectoral measures M_i (i = 1..N), where M_i is the metric for sector i. Another is to compute the coefficient of variation, CV = sd(M_i) / mean(M_i). A related method uses sector shares w_i = M_i / sum_j M_j, calculating the standard deviation or CV of these shares. Higher sektorvariation indicates greater concentration in a subset of sectors, while lower values suggest a more even, diversified sectoral structure.

Interpretation and use: Sektorvariation is used to assess structural change, diversification, and resilience of an economy or region. Analysts may track its evolution over time to identify shifting patterns between manufacturing, services, agriculture, and other sectors, or to compare economies with different sizes or classifications.

Data and limitations: Reliable calculation requires consistent sector classifications and comparable time series data. The measure can be sensitive to the number of sectors included, the treatment of very small sectors, and revisions in sector definitions. Outliers and measurement error can distort results, so smoothing or sensitivity checks are common.

See also: economic diversification, structural change, sectoral productivity, regional development.