strukturiert

Strukturiert is a German adjective derived from Struktur and strukturieren. It describes something that follows a defined structure or is organized in a coherent, logical way. The term can apply to plans, processes, documents, data sets, or presentations that exhibit clear organization. Grammatically, strukturiert is the past participle of strukturieren; it can function predicatively (Das Vorgehen ist gut strukturiert) or as part of a compound adjective, with attributive use typically taking the form eines strukturierten Dokuments in neuter singular.

In information science and data management, strukturiert denotes data that is stored according to a predefined model or schema. Structured data is organized in fixed fields and simple relations, such as databases or tabular spreadsheets, enabling straightforward querying and indexing. It contrasts with unstructured data (e.g., free text, images) and semistructured data (e.g., JSON, XML) that do not fit rigid tabular schemas but still retain some organizational markers.

Beyond data, the term is common in research methods, project planning, and human resources. A strukturiertes Vorgehen implies a stepwise, standardized procedure; a strukturiertes Interview uses a fixed set of questions for all participants to ensure comparability. In everyday usage, the word signals clarity, method, and order, often associated with efficiency and reproducibility.

Etymologically, strukturiert reflects the noun Struktur plus the verb suffix -ieren, signaling action to create or impose order. The concept is widely used across disciplines to describe systems, data, and processes that are deliberately organized.