A six-tiered framework for evaluating AI models from repeatability to replaceability

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming biotechnology and medicine. But evaluating its safety, effectiveness, and generalizability is increasingly challenging, especially for complex generative models. Traditional evaluation metrics often fall short in high-stakes applications where reliability and adaptability are critical. We propose a six-tiered framework to guide AI evaluation across the dimensions of repeatability, reproducibility, robustness, rigidity, reusability, and replaceability. These tiers reflect increasing expectations, from basic consistency to deployment. Each is defined clearly, with actionable testing methodologies informed by literature. Designed for flexibility, the framework applies to both traditional and generative AI. Through case studies in diagnostics and medical large language models (LLM), we demonstrate its utility in fostering trustworthy, accountable, and effective AI for biomedicine, biotechnology, and beyond.