Build a useful investigation brief
Build the factor trace
List query, result, matched fields, filters, sort, freshness, boosts, pins, index, and visible explanation. Include a clear control and a disputed row. Record missing factors as unknown rather than inferring them from position.
Vary one ranking input
Hold the query and result set fixed while changing one boost, field, freshness, or sort input where possible. Compare final order and destination usefulness. Record a non-change because it can rule out an attractive but irrelevant hypothesis.
Write the explanation brief
State the first factor that changes order, the visible evidence gap, and competing explanations. Recommend one bounded trace, label, or review experiment with a pass condition. Avoid claiming full ranking causality from a small sample.
What to carry forward
The investigation is complete when a disputed position has an evidence trace or a named hidden boundary and a bounded next experiment. Stop when the brief answers the reviewer’s question without overclaiming score causality. Preserve task context and control queries for verification.
Technical background: Elastic documentation.
Keep the decision with the work.
Use a Work Item in Aglet to record the problem, the evidence you have, and the next decision. Add an owner and priority, then keep updates in the discussion so the next person can follow the reasoning.
Create an account See the product workflow