A method includes identifying one or more proxy limit variables to be used to define an operating envelope associated with an industrial process controller. The industrial process controller is associated with a number of process variables including the proxy limit variable(s). The method also includes maximizing and minimizing at least one of the proxy limit variable(s). The method further includes presenting maximum and minimum values of the at least one of the proxy limit variable(s) as the operating envelope in a graphical user interface to at least one user. A single proxy limit variable could be used, and maximum and minimum values of the single proxy limit variable can be presented in a one-dimensional representation of the operating envelope. Multiple proxy limit variables could also be used, and maximum and minimum values of the proxy limit variables can be presented in a multi-dimensional representation of the operating envelope.