Abstract: This invention is directed to a method for determining an alarm configuration in industrial alarm systems. In particular, the invention relates to a method of improving an existing alarm system through a process known as “Alarm Rationalization.” The conventional method of alarm rationalization is expensive and time-consuming. The present invention is directed to a novel Focused Alarm Rationalization method that is significantly less expensive and time-consuming than prior art Alarm Rationalization methods, but which yields equivalent performance results.