1. A method for evaluating a geoscience data analysis question, comprising: (a) inputting the data analysis question to a computer through a user interface, said data analysis question pertaining to one or more geophysical data elements; (b) using the computer to perform an automated derivation of a measure to evaluate the data analysis question; and (c) inputting the one or more geophysical data elements to the computer, computing the derived measure from the data elements, and using it to evaluate the data analysis question.