Contextual Workflow Creation in Group Communication Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing group-based communication systems require users to write code or use specialized tools for workflow automation, limiting the scope of users who can contribute to implementing workflows, making it difficult for non-technical users to discover and design workflows effectively.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for contextual discovery and design of application workflows in group-based communication systems, allowing users to create and configure workflows through a user-friendly interface by displaying event messages, receiving user inputs, and executing user-created workflow operations in response to triggering events, without the need for coding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If users write code or use specialized tools for workflow automation, then workflow functionality can be implemented, but user accessibility and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a specialized workflow creation tool that acts as an intermediary between users and the group-based communication system. This tool provides a graphical user interface with drag-and-drop functionality, allowing users to create workflows without writing code. The tool translates user-friendly visual operations into the underlying system operations, thus maintaining workflow creation capability while dramatically improving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of code writing with a visual, event-driven interface. Instead of requiring users to manually program workflows using programming languages, the system uses event messages displayed in communication channels that users can interact with through simple clicks and drags. This substitution transforms a complex technical task into an accessible visual operation.
2Extent of automation
If specialized tools are used for workflow design, then workflow automation can be achieved, but device complexity and learning curve increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the group-based communication system itself multi-functional by integrating workflow creation capabilities directly into the communication interface. The same interface used for normal communication also serves as the workflow creation environment, eliminating the need for separate specialized tools. This reduces device complexity while maintaining full workflow automation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the workflow creation functionality with the existing communication interface. Event messages displayed in communication channels contain embedded controls that allow users to create workflows directly within the familiar communication environment. This combination eliminates the need for users to switch between different tools, reducing overall system complexity.
3Ease of operation
If coding is required for workflow implementation, then precise control can be achieved, but ease of operation and user accessibility worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter of user interaction from code-based to event-based. Instead of requiring users to specify precise control through programming parameters, the system uses event messages with embedded controls that automatically capture user intent. The system translates these high-level event specifications into precise control operations, achieving both ease of operation and control precision.
Data Source
AI summary
Media, methods, and systems are disclosed for contextual discovery and design of application workflow. An event message associated with a user interface control and with an instance of an event is displayed in a communication channel of a group-based communications system. In response to detecting an actuation, by a user, of the user interface control associated with the event message, a workflow creation interface is displayed to configure a new workflow triggered by an instance of an event associated with the event message. Inputs are received from the user, such that the inputs are associated with one or more user-created workflow operations. In response to detecting a triggering event corresponding to the new workflow, the new workflow is executed to carry out the user-created workflow operations.