Wirkungsabschätzung

Wirkungsabschätzung, often translated as impact assessment or effect estimation, is a systematic process used to evaluate the potential consequences of a planned action or policy. This process is employed across various fields, including environmental management, economics, and social policy, to anticipate and understand the likely outcomes before implementation. The core objective is to identify, analyze, and predict the positive and negative effects of a proposed project, program, or regulation on specific aspects of the environment, society, or economy.

The methodology typically involves defining the scope of the assessment, identifying relevant stakeholders, gathering data, and employing analytical tools. These tools can range from statistical models and cost-benefit analyses to qualitative expert judgment and scenario planning. The outcome of a Wirkungsabschätzung is usually a report that outlines the predicted impacts, their magnitude, duration, and potential reversibility. This information serves as a crucial input for decision-making, allowing policymakers and project managers to make informed choices, potentially modify plans to mitigate adverse effects, and enhance beneficial outcomes. It promotes proactive rather than reactive management of change.