Standard Coherence Fidelity Layer (SCFL)

This preprint presents the initial empirical specification of the Standard Coherence Fidelity Layer (SCFL) as a measurement framework for detecting structural degradation in complex institutional systems. The document focuses on defining coherence drift as a measurable state-space deformation observable prior to overt failure events. The framework introduces: composite state metrics, directional drift operators, falsifiable statistical criteria, and null-model comparison protocols. This version predates the formal separation of SCFL into three tiers and should be read as the foundational empirical layer upon which subsequent Tier 2 (Seam Ripple) and Tier 3 (Cascade Vulnerability) specifications were later developed. The document is archived for timestamped research disclosure and methodological review.