An analysis scheduler for scheduling the automatic processing of performance
data
through a plurality of analysis tools is disclosed. Performance data provided to
some of the tools by the analysis scheduler may be specified to be within a predetermined
(but variable) look-back period. The analysis tools identify faults and anomalous
conditions and also create repair recommendations, and automatically create problem
cases when conditions warrant, or update existing problem cases with additional
data, all under control of the analysis scheduler. The problem cases are reviewed
by a human user and then forwarded to the railroad for implementation.