Baseline: meaning, definitions and examples
📊
baseline
[ ˈbeɪslaɪn ]
reference point
A baseline refers to a standard or starting point that serves as a reference for comparing future measurements, results, or changes. It is often used in various fields, including project management, statistics, and sports. Establishing a baseline allows for the assessment of progress and the effectiveness of interventions over time. For example, in health studies, a baseline measurement might be taken before treatment begins to evaluate later outcomes.
Synonyms
benchmark, foundation, reference, standard.
Examples of usage
- The project's baseline budget was established at the start.
- We need a baseline to measure our performance improvements.
- The baseline data will help us track the team's progress.
- In this study, the baseline blood pressure of participants was recorded.
setting standards
To baseline means to establish a baseline for a given operation or assessment. This process involves determining initial measurements or conditions that will be used for future comparisons. By baselining, organizations can identify gaps in performance and areas for improvement over time. It is a crucial step in project management, performance tracking, and quality assurance.
Synonyms
define, establish, set, standardize.
Examples of usage
- We need to baseline our current performance metrics before implementing any changes.
- The team will baseline the project timelines to measure delays accurately.
- Before launching the new product, we must baseline customer satisfaction levels.
- It’s important to baseline the data to understand the impact of our strategies.
Translations
Translations of the word "baseline" in other languages:
🇵🇹 linha de base
🇮🇳 आधार रेखा
🇩🇪 Basislinie
🇮🇩 garis dasar
🇺🇦 базова лінія
🇵🇱 linia bazowa
🇯🇵 基準線
🇫🇷 ligne de base
🇪🇸 línea base
🇹🇷 temel çizgi
🇰🇷 기준선
🇸🇦 خط الأساس
🇨🇿 základní linie
🇸🇰 základná línia
🇨🇳 基准线
🇸🇮 osnovna linija
🇮🇸 grunnlína
🇰🇿 негізгі сызық
🇬🇪 საბაზო ხაზი
🇦🇿 əsas xətt
🇲🇽 línea base
Etymology
The term 'baseline' originates from the combining of the words 'base' and 'line.' The term began to gain usage in the 19th century, particularly in the fields of surveying and cartography. Initially, it referred to the primary line that serves as a reference point for measuring distances or angles. Over time, the application of the concept expanded into other domains, including statistics, project management, and health sciences. The use of 'baseline' became increasingly common in various analytical contexts as the need for standardized measures emerged, allowing practitioners to track performance against established points. By the late 20th century, the term had become widely accepted across many disciplines, symbolizing the importance of having a starting point for comparison.