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ConceptsSymptomsSymptom vs Event vs Metric

Symptom vs Event vs Metric

Understanding the distinctions between these three concepts is essential.

Quick Comparison

AspectMetricEventSymptom
NatureMeasurementOccurrenceCondition
StateStatelessStatelessStateful
DurationPoint in timePoint in timePeriod of time
ExampleSpeed: 65 mphIgnition onSpeeding violation

Metrics

Metrics are measurements:

  • Continuous values
  • No inherent meaning without context
  • High volume, raw data

Example: “Vehicle speed is 75 mph”

Events

Events are occurrences:

  • Discrete moments
  • Something happened
  • Can trigger symptoms

Example: “Geofence boundary crossed”

Symptoms

Symptoms are conditions:

  • Interpreted from metrics/events
  • Have operational meaning
  • Require potential response

Example: “Vehicle exceeding speed limit for 5 minutes”

How They Relate

Metrics/Events → Detection Rules → Symptoms

Metrics and events flow through detection rules. When rules match, symptoms are created or updated.

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