How We Troubleshoot Difficult Problems: Cognition and Understanding Causality in Distributed Software Systems

Learn about troubleshooting complex problems in distributed software systems through this 48-minute conference talk from ConfigManagement Camp 2025. Explore cognitive processes and causal understanding involved in diagnosing challenging technical issues, presented by Laura Nolan. Gain insights into effective problem-solving methodologies specifically focused on distributed systems architecture and management. Discover practical approaches to understanding system behaviors, identifying root causes, and developing systematic troubleshooting strategies. Part of the conference's Main track, this presentation delves into the intersection of human cognition and technical problem-solving in modern software environments.