Benchmark

 Definition(s):

The recorded state of something at a specific point in time.

Source: ITIL

The root node of an Extensible Configuration Checklist Description Format (XCCDF) benchmark document; may also be the root node of an XCCDF results document (the results of evaluating the XCCDF benchmark document).

 Source: NIST

Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary
benchmark (noun)
1.
a mark on a permanent object indicating elevation and serving as a reference in topographic surveys and tidal observations
2.
a) a point of reference from which measurements may be made
b) something that serves as a standard by which others may be measured or judged
c) a standardized problem or test that serves as a basis for evaluation or comparison (as of computer system performance)
benchmark (verb)
transitive verb
to study (as a competitor's product or business practices) in order to improve the performance of one's own company
Merriam-Webster Online Thesaurus
benchmark (noun)
something set up as an example against which others of the same type are compared
SYNONYMS:
bar, barometer, benchmark, criterion, gold standard, grade, mark, measure, metric, par, touchstone, yardstick
RELATED WORDS:
case, example, instance; average, norm, rule; acme, apex, meridian, peak, pinnacle, summit, zenith
NEAR ANTONYMS:
aberration, abnormality, deviation
Benchmark is a standard or point of reference against which things may be compared or assessed. It is a measure of performance used as a point of comparison for evaluating the quality of a product or service.