A database system and method are provided to allow a user to characterize observations related to an otherwise unidentified process. A database is established that stores data for substances, processes and equipment according to a data model that relates attributes of substances, processes and equipment. Information related to observations, called observed data or observables, is entered by a user into the system as the search criteria. The observed data may range in complexity from the names of one or more substances and/or processing equipment to a text description of the odor, color and state of observed substances and/or equipment. The system searches the database using the search criteria to return a list of one or more processes that possibly create the observed data, and thus more completely characterize the process.