What does decomposing a problem or question involve?

Decomposing a problem or question involves breaking it down into smaller parts that can be more easily estimated. This process is crucial in risk analysis, as it allows practitioners to tackle complex issues by addressing simpler, more manageable components. When a problem is decomposed, each smaller part can be analyzed and understood in isolation, which enhances clarity and focus.

This approach aids in identifying specific factors that contribute to the overall risk and allows for more precise estimations of those individual components. By doing so, analysts can subsequently integrate these individual estimates to arrive at a comprehensive understanding of the larger issue. Decomposition is a foundational practice in the FAIR methodology, helping analysts systematically explore various elements of risk without being overwhelmed by the complexity of the entire situation.

The other options may involve beneficial activities within the risk analysis process, but they do not specifically address the core activity of breaking down a problem into smaller, manageable parts. For instance, making calibrated estimates and identifying subject matter experts can support the analysis, while determining levels within the FAIR model pertains more to structuring the analysis rather than the act of decomposition itself.