Abstract: The invention provides a computer implemented tool for analyzing the brittleness of a system with respect to at least one system performance measure. The tool comprises a statistical analyzer configured to receive at least one operating parameter input, o, and to provide at least one performance function output, f. The performance function output f provides an indication of system performance as a function of system operating parameter input o. A brittleness analyzer is coupled to the performance function output and is configured to provide a brittleness output based upon the performance function output f.