The Natural Resources Institute Finland has created a yardstick ("indicator" or method) which makes it possible to compare different ways of using forests. The "Forest Indicator" combines biodiversity, ecosystem services and timber production, while simultaneously comparing these individual elements with each other.

The multifunctional use of the forest undoubtedly involves the need to balance all the benefits (from the forest). The "Forest Indicator" allows for an assessment of how, for example, it is possible to simultaneously extract timber, preserve biodiversity and improve carbon sequestration or increase berry yields.

The "Forest Indicator" is a regional-scale tool for use by local authorities, for example, to evaluate different types of forest management. With its help, for instance, forest owners and foresters can plan potential cooperation.