Action Command Engine Guides Users Through Enterprise Software Tasks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Enterprise software applications are complex and difficult for ordinary users to navigate due to their powerful features and cumbersome user manuals, leading to errors and inefficiencies in task execution.
Innovation Solution
An action command engine that simplifies user experience by providing a universal next button and task-specific sequence objects, guiding users through processes across multiple applications in manual, auto-entry, or batch fill modes, reducing complexity and improving productivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If enterprise applications implement powerful features and complex business logic, then functionality and capability are improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the complex enterprise application interface into task-specific sequence objects that break down complex processes into discrete, manageable steps. Each sequence object represents a specific business task (e.g., price quotation, order capture) and guides users through the necessary steps in order, reducing the perceived complexity while maintaining full functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary layer (the action command engine with sequence objects) between the user and the complex enterprise application backend. This intermediary translates user-friendly task descriptions into the complex series of operations required by the underlying system, shielding users from complexity while preserving full system capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If enterprise applications provide extensive features and capabilities, then adaptability is improved, but ease of operation worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-defining task-specific sequence objects that encapsulate the correct sequence of operations for common business tasks. These sequences are prepared in advance based on the application's business logic, so users don't need to figure out the complex navigation and screen sequences themselves - the system has already determined the optimal path for them.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides self-service guidance through the action command engine, which automatically determines the next appropriate step based on the current state and the desired task outcome. The system serves itself by generating the navigation path and presenting it to the user, eliminating the need for users to manually navigate through complex screens and forms.
3Reliability
If users navigate through multiple screens and interface forms, then process completion is achieved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamics by making the user interface adaptive and state-aware. The action command engine dynamically generates and updates the sequence of steps based on the current application state, user progress, and task requirements. This dynamic approach allows the system to present only the necessary next step to the user at any given moment, rather than requiring navigation through all possible screens and forms.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the action command engine continuously monitors user progress and application state, then provides real-time guidance on the next required action. This feedback loop ensures users stay on the correct path to complete their task while minimizing unnecessary navigation, as the system actively guides them through the optimal sequence of steps based on current conditions.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are improved methods, systems, and computer program products for implementing an action command engine to simplify an end user's experience in executing processes in applications by enabling an action command engine to guide a user through the process in a step by step fashion. Embodiments of the invention can be implemented in different modes of operations, such as manual mode, auto-entry mode, or batch fill mode. A universal next button may be deployed to guide end user's through any process or task in software applications.