System Assurance

Preface

Claude Langton: But I haven't heard anything about a murder.

Hercule Poirot: No, you would not have heard of it. Because, as yet, it has not taken place. You see, if one can investigate a murder before it happens, then one might even, well, a little idea … prevent it?

Agatha Christie, Poirot: The Wasp's Nest

System assurance is a bit like detective work: Most of the time is spent “out in the streets” gathering evidence—interviewing potential witnesses or searching for a promising cigarette butt. Gathering evidence is important. The evidence contributes to understanding the situation (“facts of the matter”). Evidence drives the investigation (“follow the facts”). Remember, some detective time is spent on planning the investigative actions. ...