A new process based on economics to define the regional need for weather measurements.

This paper proposes a structured economics process to define the need and optimal scope of meteorological measurements for a specific area. Rather than relying on generic standards, environmental zoning or purely technical considerations, the approach links measurement requirements directly to the economic value of weather-sensitive decisions, enabling targeted and cost-effective investments in observation systems.
The proposed framework is based on five key evaluation steps:. 
First, the economic annual value of decisions influenced by weather at the site is quantified. Use cases  provided for these decisions are agricultural operations, energy production and distribution, construction planning, and outdoor sports.
Second, the proportion of these decisions that can be improved through enhanced meteorological information is assessed, using the Use cases pr This dimension captures the degree to which better temporal or spatial resolution, increased accuracy, or additional variables can lead to measurable changes in operational choices and outcomes.
Third, the expected lifetime of the measurement system is considered, ensuring that long-term benefits are properly accounted for in the evaluation. 
Fourth, the full lifecycle cost of the measurement solution - including installation, operation, maintenance, data processing, and system depreciation - is incorporated.
Fifth, the RoI of the investment can be calculated for different measurement options.
By integrating these four decision criteria into the decision process, the paper develops a simple decision model that estimates the net economic benefit of a given measurement configuration. The approach allows for comparison between alternative system designs, ranging from minimal sensor deployments to advanced, multi-parameter observation networks. It also provides some guidelines to quantify the economic value of use cases. It further supports sensitivity analyses to account for uncertainty in economic valuations, technological performance, and environmental variability.
The results demonstrate that the economic justification for meteorological measurements is highly site-specific and strongly dependent on sectoral context, rather than only on environmental or technical factors. In high-value environments - such as precision agriculture, renewable energy systems, or critical infrastructure - relatively small improvements in weather information can yield substantial economic returns, justifying more sophisticated and costly measurement systems. Conversely, in lower-value contexts, simpler and more cost-efficient solutions should be sought.
 The framework also allows the economic evaluation of existing measurement networks and provides a transparent and replicable methodology for decision-makers, investors, and service providers to define meteorological measurement needs in economic terms. It shifts the focus from technology-driven deployment to value-driven design, thereby supporting more efficient allocation of resources and enhancing the impact of weather information on operational and strategic decision-making across sectors.