Definitionv1DF-548
Trend analysis
the practice of examining how metrics change over time to detect gradual degradation or improvement patterns that would be invisible in point-in-time assessments, enabling early intervention before thresholds are crossed.
Why This Is a Definition
This definition clearly identifies 'trend analysis' as a practice of examining temporal change, distinguishes it from point-in-time checks, and specifies its functional purpose (detecting invisible patterns, enabling early intervention). It's precise enough to separate it from general 'monitoring' or 'data analysis' and captures the curriculum's emphasis on trajectory over static snapshots.