eimittausperusteiseen

Eimittausperusteiseen is a Finnish term used to describe processes, assessments, or decisions that are not based on direct measurement. It contrasts with mittausperusteinen, which refers to approaches grounded in empirical data obtained through observation or measurement. In practice, eimittausperusteiseen describes methods that rely on estimation, modeling, expert judgment, normative criteria, or regulatory rules rather than solely on quantitative metrics.

Usage and contexts: The term appears in academic, public administration, and policy discussions where evaluators compare measurement-based and non-measurement-based approaches. It is commonly found in phrases such as eimittausperusteinen arviointi or eimittausperusteinen lähestymistapa, signaling a methodological stance rather than a fixed standard. The expression is typically used to critique or specify a non-empirical basis for conclusions or decisions.

Etymology and form: The word is formed from ei, meaning “not,” attached to mittausperusteinen, meaning “measurement-based.” The ending -iseen is a Finnish inflectional form that marks a particular case or relation within a phrase, allowing the adjective to describe a noun or a process.

Limitations and considerations: Because eimittausperusteiset approaches may rely more on subjective judgment, theoretical assumptions, or non-empirical criteria, they can be less transparent or harder to compare across contexts than measurement-based methods. Proponents argue that such approaches are useful when measurements are impractical, unavailable, or incomplete, while critics point to potential biases and reduced reproducibility. See also mittausperusteinen and arviointi for related concepts.