sectorally

Sectorally is an adverb derived from sector, used to describe actions, analyses, or policies that are carried out with reference to specific sectors of the economy or society. In economics and public policy, the term is commonly applied to data, planning, or interventions that are broken down or tailored by sector rather than treated as a homogeneous whole.

Etymology: The word combines sector with the adverbial suffix -ally. It first appeared in formal usage in economic writing in the 20th century, though the idea of treating information by sector long predates the term.

Usage in economics and policy: Sectorally disaggregated statistics, sectorally targeted subsidies, and sectorally differentiated fiscal or regulatory measures. Analysts compare sectorally specific effects of shocks, such as technology adoption, commodity price swings, or climate policies, to understand sector-specific dynamics.

In business and management: Sectorally oriented resource allocation, performance measurement, and risk assessment aim to optimize outcomes by industry, firm size, or activity type. Sectoral analysis can reveal divergent needs across industries and support tailored strategies.

Limitations and criticisms: Focusing on sectors can mask cross-sector linkages, input-output dependencies, and spillovers. Sectoral categorization may be arbitrary or change over time, complicating longitudinal analysis. The term is often used descriptively rather than as a methodological standard.

See also: sector, sectoral analysis, disaggregation.