Terms that make comparisons understandable
The GPI Reference Lexicon gives our commitment to clear terminology a lasting form. As part of our brand identity, it connects the tradition of ordered commercial knowledge with digital platform analysis. GPI definitions explain the language of our comparisons and lead to the relevant methodology.
Comparison category
A group of platforms serving a sufficiently similar purpose for a comparable audience. The category determines which comparisons are meaningful.
Target audience
The people an offering is intended for, including any admission requirements. Student education and physician training cannot be equated simply because their topics overlap.
Platform function
A specific capability offered to users, such as search, structured information or access to a service. An advertised feature and its verified availability must be distinguished.
Criterion
An explicitly named aspect of assessment. A traceable criterion identifies the property being examined and the evidence relevant to it.
Weight
The contribution of a criterion to a calculated value. The relevant GPI methodology documents the weighting and its significance for the result.
Criterion score
The assessment of one aspect under the relevant criteria catalogue. Missing information does not automatically establish a negative property.
Calculated overall score
A value produced from individual scores using a stated calculation rule. Criteria, weights and the treatment of missing data must remain visible.
Editorial overall assessment
An overall judgement by the publisher explicitly identified as editorial. It must not be confused with a result calculated exclusively from individual scores. Its use and effect on ranking belong in the current methodology.
Source
Identifiable evidence for a specific statement. Its value depends on its content, relevance to the claim and review date, not simply on an institution's name.
Data reference period
The date or period to which published information relates. A past review does not automatically cover subsequent platform changes.
Rank
A position within a precisely defined comparison category and edition. It is not a universal judgement on every activity of a company or an absolute international claim beyond the reviewed scope.
Award
Recognition by the publisher within a named category and edition. Its criteria and underlying assessment must be traceable on the relevant award page. An award is not a medical authorisation.