A "baseline" is a standard or reference point used for comparison in various fields, such as science, finance, and project management. It helps establish a starting point to measure progress, performance, or changes over time. For example, in a clinical trial, the baseline data might include participants' health metrics before treatment begins. In project management, a baseline often refers to the original project plan, including scope, schedule, and budget. This allows project managers to track deviations and assess whether the project is on track. By comparing current performance against the baseline, teams can make informed decisions to keep the project aligned with its goals.