An adjective describing something operating or existing at a size, scope, or complexity between small and large. This often refers to operations, systems, or projects that are substantial enough to have significant impact but are not of the vastness or complexity of the largest endeavors. The term emphasizes a middle ground in terms of size, resources, or geographical reach, positioning the subject between micro and macro levels. It frequently appears in discussions involving infrastructure, economic models, research studies, and business endeavors. The implications of intermediate-scale projects frequently balance manageability with the potential for impactful results.
Intermediate-scale meaning with examples
- The city planned an intermediate-scale public transportation project, focusing on a bus rapid transit system. This approach aimed to provide improved service to underserved areas without the massive infrastructure investment required for a light rail system. The design balanced cost-effectiveness and a reduction in environmental impact, with the hope of increasing ridership while allowing a more adaptable, expandable network compared to the current system.
- Researchers conducted an intermediate-scale clinical trial to evaluate the efficacy of a new drug for treating hypertension. The study recruited several hundred participants across a few different medical centers, allowing a more thorough analysis of the drug's side effects than a smaller trial, but with a manageable budget and timeline before large-scale funding was required. The results would inform the potential for a larger study.
- The company developed an intermediate-scale renewable energy plant featuring several wind turbines and solar arrays. The project was designed to supply power to a local industrial park without the footprint of a large-scale power generation facility. It represents a sustainable business model that balanced cost, efficiency, and local impact, utilizing existing infrastructure and resources. The project's sustainability and scalability would be studied.
- The government funded an intermediate-scale agricultural development project, providing training and resources to small-holder farmers. The goal was to increase local food production and improve incomes without implementing broad-scale governmental changes. The project aimed to improve the agricultural output in the most efficient way possible by investing in smaller groups of farmers while providing the infrastructure they require.