A framework for making qualities of indicators transparent

Abstract A framework is presented to communicate different qualities of and uncertainties in indicators, and to enhance the transparency of conclusions and scientific advice based on them. The framework consists of four parts: Advice Statement, Power of Explanation, Robustness, and Performance Persp...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:ICES Journal of Marine Science
Main Authors: Hauge, Kjellrun Hiis, Olsen, Erik, Heldal, Hilde Elise, Skjoldal, Hein Rune
Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
Language:English
Published: Oxford University Press (OUP) 2005
Subjects:
Ecology
Aquatic Science
Ecology, Evolution, Behavior and Systematics
Oceanography
Arctic
Arctic cod
Harbour porpoise
Northeast Arctic cod
Online Access:http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.icesjms.2004.12.014
http://academic.oup.com/icesjms/article-pdf/62/3/552/29151890/62-3-552.pdf
Description
Summary:Abstract A framework is presented to communicate different qualities of and uncertainties in indicators, and to enhance the transparency of conclusions and scientific advice based on them. The framework consists of four parts: Advice Statement, Power of Explanation, Robustness, and Performance Perspectives. The Advice Statement is descriptive and largely quantitative; the last three parts are more analytical and qualitative. Power of Explanation addresses the strength of the associated scientific knowledge. Robustness seeks to clarify how sensitive the indicator value and advice are to underlying assumptions. Performance Perspectives highlight prospects and drawbacks in a management context. The framework and its discussion are illustrated by examples on spawning-stock biomass of Northeast Arctic cod, technetium-99 concentrations in lobster, and harbour porpoise bycatch rates.

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