I have been thinking about why a compass feels so fitting for observability.
Monitoring can produce thousands of signals, but more signals do not automatically create greater clarity. Without context and interpretation, we can have plenty of information but still lack a clear sense of direction.
A compass does not choose the destination or decide what action should be taken.
It provides orientation. It helps us understand where we are, allowing the next move to be made with greater confidence.
Observability should do something similar.
It should bring related signals together, establish what the available evidence genuinely supports, and help us understand the current operational state.
In that model, the dashboard becomes the compass face: a visible representation of operational posture rather than simply a collection of metrics, alerts and status colours.
It should show where attention is needed, where confidence is limited, and where the evidence supports action.
The objective is not to remove human judgement.
It is to give that judgement clearer evidence and a stronger sense of direction.
“The platform should never claim more than the available evidence supports.”
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