This intuitive 3D environment enables the user to quickly detect and quantify issues like recurring cracks or increasing wear, and then aids in root cause analysis efforts to identify the source of the problem. In addition, NLign enables users to quickly find information that is relevant to a specific troublesome location on a structure such as, previous repairs and analysis. Quick access to this information accelerates engineering decisions concerning non- conforming material in a manufacturing environment and damage found during in-service operation of the asset. Furthermore, NLign enables the visualization of trends in manufacturing and maintenance that can be indicative of systematic problems. Utilizing these capabilities, NLign has demonstrated the ability to increase manufacturing rates and improve asset availability.