Viabilité

Viabilité is a concept used across multiple disciplines to denote the ability of something to survive, develop, or succeed under given conditions. The term, derived from life, encompasses not only biological survival but also the long-term sustainability and practical feasibility of projects, systems, or processes. In practice, viability is assessed against specified criteria or benchmarks that determine whether continuation or investment is warranted.

In biology and medicine, viability refers to the capacity of cells, tissues, or organisms to maintain metabolic activity and function. Cell viability is commonly evaluated with assays such as trypan blue exclusion or colorimetric tests like MTT, which indicate living versus dead cells. In clinical contexts, embryo, organ, or tissue viability informs decisions about transplantation, assisted reproduction, and experimental treatments.

In agriculture and ecology, viability covers the potential of seeds to germinate and develop into healthy plants, as well as the resilience and sustainability of populations and ecosystems. Ecological or environmental viability assesses whether a system can endure pressures such as climate change, habitat loss, or resource depletion over time.

In economics and planning, viability describes the financial and social feasibility of a project or enterprise. Economic viability considers profitability, cash flow, and risk, often through feasibility studies and metrics like net present value or return on investment. Social and political viability address community acceptance, regulatory support, and the likelihood of long-term adoption.

Overall, viability serves as a decision-making criterion: if a candidate option meets the necessary conditions, it proceeds; if not, it is revised or abandoned.