The Metrics Library

The Metrics Library, being developed under the IFAD-EC TRANSITIONS Metrics Project, is an online database that provides a comprehensive collection of metrics for evaluating the performance of food and agricultural (agrifood) systems. This user-friendly platform will act as a one-stop shop, allowing users to explore, search for and select the most appropriate metrics and tools for their specific needs. It is aimed at a wide range of users, from policymakers and donors to development actors and producers.

In 2025, the Metrics Project and the CGIAR Multifunctional Landscapes program teamed up to co-develop the next phase of the Library. This collaboration will help the library grow further and continue as a living product for the benefit of all.

While we may already know which aspects of agrifood system performance we want to measure, choosing the right metrics can be challenging. The Metrics Library addresses this gap by offering users the ability to search for metrics based on various criteria, such as the dimension (e.g., economic, environmental, social), theme (e.g., food security, resource use efficiency), or scale of interest (e.g., field, farm, landscape, region). Additionally, the library can suggest existing assessment tools that align with your needs and introduce you to potentially overlooked metrics, ensuring a more holistic evaluation.

Imagine a network or spiderweb, where each node represents a metric, and connections link them based on shared characteristics. This structure allows users of the database to filter results and navigate the database through various attributes. For example, you can explore metrics based on the dimensions and themes you want to measure, the scale you're focusing on, or existing tools and frameworks you might already be using or want to use (e.g. TAPE, SAFA, PG tool, F-ACT).

The Metrics Library is built upon a thorough systematic review of academic literature and existing holistic systems assessments. It incorporates metrics from over 200 existing assessment methods and over 8,000 scientific articles, covering a wide range of dimensions and themes related to agrifood system performance. Table 1 provides an overview of the various dimensions and themes included in the library along with some example metrics.