baseline

An initial measurement that is taken at an early time point to represent a beginning condition, and is used for comparison over time to look for changes. For example, the size of a tumor will be measured before treatment (baseline) and then afterwards to see if the treatment had an effect.

Projection of the receipts, outlays, and other budget amounts that would ensue in the future without any change in existing policy. Baseline projections are used to gauge the extent to which proposed legislation, if enacted into law, would alter current spending and revenue levels.

In electric markets, refers to an agreed-upon level of electricity consumption from which deviations are measured. Usually based on a customer's historical usage. Variations may be billed at a different rate.

Defined quantity or quality used as starting point for subsequent efforts and progress measurement. Can be a technical baseline or cost baseline.

A specification or set of data that has been formally reviewed and agreed upon that thereafter serves as the foundation for comparison