Monitor recurrence without claiming absence too early
Track service, signal, observation window, possible recurrence and confirmed recurrence with explicit evidence.
Define the signal
- State what would indicate recurrence.
- Connect the service when known.
Set the window
- Use a finite monitoring period.
- No observation is bounded by that window.
Escalate accurately
- Possible and confirmed recurrence remain separate.
- Reopen the problem through a retained decision.
Retain the problem record
The Problem Management Studio keeps hypotheses, contrary evidence, factors, actions, checks, recurrence observations and decisions connected. It does not change systems, assign blame, spend money or prove effectiveness without observation.