Application Startup Time Estimation via Segmented Download
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users face long delays in accessing large software applications due to lengthy download and installation times, especially on low-speed internet connections, which can be frustrating and impact purchasing decisions.
Innovation Solution
A system and method to estimate the time required to start using an application by displaying the 'PlayGo time', which calculates the time needed to download and install the initial portion of the application sufficient to start using it, dynamically updating based on download and installation speeds.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the entire application is downloaded and installed before use, then the application can run completely, but the waiting time becomes excessively long
Solution Approach 1:
The application is divided into multiple components: a core minimal set that can run immediately, and additional optional components that are downloaded and installed in the background. This segmentation allows the application to become functional without requiring the complete package, thus reducing waiting time while maintaining reliability of the core functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by downloading and installing the core application components before the user actually needs to use them, while simultaneously preparing additional components in the background. This preliminary action reduces the perceived waiting time by having the essential parts ready beforehand.
2Loss of time
If only a partial application is downloaded initially, then the waiting time is reduced, but the application functionality is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The application structure is made dynamic, allowing the user to start with a minimal core set and progressively add more components as needed. The system dynamically adjusts the application composition based on user needs, downloading additional components in the background when the device is idle, thus maintaining full functionality over time while minimizing initial waiting time.
3Ease of operation
If the download and installation process is hidden in the background, then device usability is maintained, but the user cannot determine when the application will be ready
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback mechanisms that provide the user with real-time information about the download and installation progress of application components. This feedback includes status updates and estimated completion times, allowing users to understand when the application will be ready while the background process continues uninterrupted, thus maintaining both ease of operation and information transparency.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are methods and systems for determining the time for a remote computer to begin executing an application downloaded over a network. A portion of the application to begin execution of the application is determined. The portion is less than the entirety of the application. The time to start the application on a remote computer is calculated and displayed. The time to start can be calculated based on an obtained a speed of the network to the remote computer, a time to transmit the portion of the application to the remote computer based on the portion of the application and the obtained connection speed, and a loading time for the portion of the application to load on the remote computer.