unsystematische

Unsystematische describes something that is not systematic: a lack of plan, structure, or method in procedures, observations, or reasoning. The term is formed from un- (negation) and systematisch (systematic), and is used in German to contrast with systematic approaches that emphasize predefined criteria, reproducibility, and order.

In research and professional work, unsystematisches Vorgehen refers to methods or processes guided by ad hoc decisions rather than a planned protocol. Such approaches can yield rich, contextual or exploratory data but may introduce biases, reduce reproducibility, and hinder comparability across studies. It is often contrasted with systematic methods, which rely on predefined instruments, sampling schemes, and analytical procedures to ensure consistency and traceability.

Contexts where the term appears include data collection, observation, and analysis. Examples include unstructured field notes without a coding framework, interviews conducted without a coding scheme, or data-gathering lacking a sampling plan. In statistical discourse, unsystematische Fehler denotes random variability, but in common usage the term generally refers to a broader lack of methodological rigor rather than a specific error type.

In everyday language, unsystematische can describe plans or processes that appear incoherent, poorly organized, or lacking methodological discipline. While not inherently negative in exploratory settings, an unsystematisches Vorgehen is typically viewed as needing more structure to support reliability and validity.

See also: systematisch, methodisch, Stichprobe, Fehlerarten.