Verdibasert

Verdibasert is a Norwegian term meaning “value-based.” It describes actions, strategies, or policies that are anchored in a defined set of values, norms, or ethical commitments rather than being driven solely by financial performance or technical efficiency. The concept is used across business, public sector, and civil society to signal alignment with mission, stakeholder expectations, and social responsibilities.

In business, verdibasert ledelse refers to leadership that guides an organization by core values such as integrity, accountability, sustainability, and respect. Verdibasert beslutningstaking involves evaluating options against ethical standards and organizational principles, not only costs or metrics. Practices such as verdibasert innkjøp or verdibasert partnervalg emphasize choosing suppliers and collaborators whose values match the organization’s.

In public administration and nonprofit work, verdibasert praksis describes policies and programs shaped by shared societal values, including transparency, equity, and participation. The approach aims to build trust and legitimacy by demonstrating alignment between stated values and day-to-day actions.

Challenges and considerations include the subjectivity of values, potential variation across cultures and individuals, and the difficulty of translating abstract principles into measurable outcomes. Critics warn against value washing if commitments are not substantively enacted, while proponents argue that a value-based orientation supports long-term resilience, stakeholder trust, and ethical governance.

Overall, verdibasert denotes an orientation where decisions and activities are consistently guided by a defined value framework, integrating ethics with strategy and operations.