Theory
Evidence ladder
Rank evidence by the scarce real-world commitment it reflects, from public signal through replicated outcome. The ladder lets a reader state which rung supports each claim and what next commitment would materially change confidence, instead of treating all evidence as equal.
Progression
Public signal, literature, expert review, retrospective data, interview, access, data sharing, pilot, implementation, repeat use, payment, measured outcome, and replicated outcome carry progressively different commitments.
Caution
The ladder is not universal. Scientific validity and commercial commitment answer different questions. Keep the five evidence tracks separate.
Use
State which rung supports each claim and what next commitment would materially change confidence.