Analytical metric tools: A critical reflection on their role, evolution, and future towards a more responsible and fit-for-purpose assessment

The evaluation of analytical methods has expanded from traditional performance criteria toward more holistic approaches that incorporate environmental, practical, and societal dimensions. This shift has driven the fast development of analytical metric tools, which are now widely used to support method assessment, comparison, and decision-making. However, despite their increasing growth, several transversal aspects remain insufficiently explored. This perspective article provides a critical reflection on the role, evolution, and future of metric tools in analytical chemistry. We discuss and summarize the current proliferation of metrics and question whether the field requires further tools or rather a more harmonized and effective use of existing ones. Key dimensions are analyzed, including the emergence of multichromatic frameworks that integrate multiple evaluation criteria, the ongoing digitalization of metrics, the potential role of artificial intelligence, and the development of new concepts, principles, and terminology that came up. In addition, we highlight the need to move beyond purely environmental perspectives by incorporating responsibility, inclusivity, and broader sustainability considerations. Several gaps are identified, such as the predominant ex-post application of metrics, the limited consideration of full analytical workflows and energy consumption, and the lack of integration into innovation and commercialization processes. We emphasize the importance of education, training, and harmonization to ensure their proper use. This work calls for a transition toward more responsible, transparent, and fit-for-purpose evaluation practices in analytical chemistry in the context of metric tools.