Ytelsesgap

Ytelsesgap refers to the difference between achieved performance and the level that could be attained under optimal conditions. In macroeconomics the term is often used to describe the output gap: actual output minus estimated potential output, measured as a percentage of potential output. A negative gap indicates underused resources, while a positive gap signals overheating and inflation risk. Potential output is not directly observable, and estimates vary with method.

Measuring potential output uses several approaches, including production-function estimates, statistical filters such as the Hodrick–Prescott filter, and structural macroeconomic models. The gap can be observed at national, regional, or sectoral levels and may reflect demand shortfalls, supply shocks, or longer-run constraints such as slower productivity growth, capital misallocation, or labor-market frictions.

Implications for policy are central: a negative gap suggests room for demand-stimulating measures or investments to raise supply capacity, whereas a positive gap warns of inflationary pressure and may call for tightening. Policy tools include monetary policy, fiscal policy, and initiatives to raise productivity, such as investment in human capital, infrastructure, or innovation, and improving resource allocation.

In business and public administration, closing performance gaps often involves performance management, targeted training, process improvements, and technology adoption. The concept is subject to uncertainty because potential output and the size of the gap depend on model choice and real-time data, and effects may be distributional.

Related topics include Okun's law, potential output, capacity utilization and productivity.