Software
From Correlation to Cause: A Four-Step Framework for Causal Reasoning in Software Engineering
This article presents a four-step framework for Causal Software Engineering (CSE), guiding practitioners to distinguish true causal effects from mere correlations in software systems. By treating changes as interventions, identifying confounders, and reasoning with counterfactuals, engineers can improve diagnostic accuracy and impact analysis.
Sophie Laurent·November 14, 2026