A baseline is the recorded starting performance of a defined workflow before a comparison or change. It gives the later result a reference point, provided the periods use compatible definitions and sufficiently comparable work.
Record the measurement definition
Specify the completed output and its acceptance criteria, dates, participating team, output count, and recruiter hours. Include review and correction time. An estimate can help plan measurement, but it should not be presented as a recorded baseline.
For an illustrative workflow, the output might be a candidate reply reviewed to agreed criteria. The team must define what qualifies as complete before counting it. Messages sent or records opened are different measures and should not be substituted midway through the comparison.
Compare with care
Use the same output definition in the trial period and describe changes in workload, staffing, or source quality. A positive baseline rate is required for a meaningful rate multiplier. Keep supporting records private and obtain approval before making customer-result claims. Use the measurement article and pilot checklist to prepare a reviewable comparison.