Abstract: A method for displaying a visual process signature for ready visual recognition and communication of otherwise complex manufacturing process information. Process data may be stored in a plurality of data stores, each data store holding a plurality of records containing process data, each record associated with at least one process component. A proxy virtual database is created from copies of records selected from the data stores. Statistical analysis operations are applied to the selected records within the proxy virtual database to identify process components or combinations of process components having a significant effect on characteristics of a product produced as well as the magnitude of that effect. At least three characteristics of the identified process components including the outcome of the statistical analysis operations are selected and visually displayed in a static or animated three-dimensional representation shown on a two-dimensional display.