MES Matrix

The second tool is the MES Matrix, on which the description and explanation of the phenomenon is created. The Matrix coordinates are times and actors. Investigators array their EBs along the actor row and under the begin time on the time bar. This display helps them position new EBs in sequence, to organize the data efficiently and methodically. The matrix shows investigators what they know and what they need to find out, focusing their investigation efforts to complete their description. Investigators can position the EBs in sequence either manually or with the software.

An alternative display of the EBs shows the duration of each, much like a Gannt chart. This permits analysis of overlapping actions or behaviors during a process.