Koperateur glossary

Precise terms for decisions that hold up

We use these terms to describe observable capabilities, choices and limits. Choose a path: each definition begins with a real situation and states what it commits us to.

Choose a path

01 · Five paths

Choose a path

Nineteen terms structure how we recognise a situation, clarify a choice, decide, retain control, then demonstrate and transfer.

Each path has a stable address, so it can be opened, shared and read independently.

02 · Operational definitions

Decide

Make an explicit choice proportionate to value, risk, effort and actual capability.

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Trade-off

Definition: An explicit choice between requirements or options based on their net benefit to the stakeholders concerned.
Nuance: A trade-off recognises that no option maximises everything; it makes gains, sacrifices and revisable assumptions visible.
Concrete situation: Build, buy or retain the existing system after comparing timing, control, total cost and reversibility.
Associated terms: Option, priority, benefit, constraint, decision.
Avoid: Presenting a choice as a purely technical necessity; hiding an option’s downside.

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Fit for purpose

Definition: The fit between an answer and the purpose, context, criticality and actual capability it must serve.
Nuance: Fitness for purpose is neither perfection nor maximum technology; it is always bounded by a defined use.
Concrete situation: Keeping human approval for a rare, sensitive decision is a better fit than full automation that is hard to take over.
Associated terms: Proportion, purpose, relevance, sufficiency, context.
Avoid: “Perfect”, “best” or “infallible” without a purpose or criterion; “justness” as the translation.

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Accountability

Definition: Identification of the person or role that decides, approves, acts and answers for the resulting effects.
Nuance: Participation does not mean owning the trade-off; a tool or model cannot carry human accountability.
Concrete situation: A model proposes, an operator reviews and an identified accountable person authorises the sensitive action.
Associated terms: Decision, role, authority, review, consequence.
Avoid: “Collective responsibility” with no identifiable decision owner; “the AI is responsible”.

Put the terms to work

A term matters only when it clarifies action

If your situation does not fit a ready-made definition, that is precisely where scoping begins.

Qualify your situation