Abstract: A method includes identifying an envelope associated with a process variable in an industrial process control and automation system. The envelope is defined by an upper limit and a lower limit on the process variable. The method also includes generating a graphical display for presentation to an operator. The graphical display identifies a trend of a value of the process variable over time and the upper and lower limits of the envelope over time. The graphical display could also identify predicted upper and lower limits of the envelope a predicted target value of the process variable over a future time period. The graphical display could further identify when the value of the process variable falls outside the envelope.