When assisting an end user experiencing intermittent display system failures, what would be the best follow-up question?

Asking what was being used just prior to the last failure is a critical follow-up question that can provide valuable context to the intermittent display system failures. This inquiry helps to identify any specific actions, applications, devices, or conditions that might correlate with the failures. Understanding the context in which a failure occurs is essential for troubleshooting, as it can reveal patterns or triggers that are not immediately apparent. This question can lead to insights about potential hardware issues, software bugs, or even user error, enabling a more systematic approach to finding a solution.

In troubleshooting scenarios, precise details surrounding the occurrences of failures can significantly aid in diagnosing the problem. By focusing on recent usage, technicians can gather information that could point towards the cause of the issue, which is crucial for resolving intermittent problems that may not be reproducible under normal testing conditions. This method aligns with effective troubleshooting practices, ensuring that solutions are based on relevant and actionable information.