What does the acronym STEP stand for in root cause analysis?

The acronym STEP in root cause analysis stands for Sequential Time Event Plotting. This method is used to visualize the sequence of events leading up to an incident or failure, allowing teams to identify correlations and causative factors effectively. By plotting events in chronological order, analysts can better understand the context and timing of each event, which is crucial in determining how they contributed to the problem at hand. This approach not only aids in identifying the root causes but also enhances the ability to prevent similar issues in the future by providing a clear narrative of the sequence of occurrences.

The other options, while they bear a resemblance to the terminology used in analysis processes, do not accurately reflect the established definition of STEP in the context of root cause analysis. Each incorrect option presents terms that could relate broadly to evaluation or timing processes but lack the specific focus and recognized usage of Sequential Time Event Plotting.