Crosstab Cell Selection via Aggregation Level Hinting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing graphical user interfaces (GUIs) lack precision and discrimination in selecting multiple items, especially in tabular data like crosstabs, where hierarchical data structures limit the ability to perform cell-level selections for analysis, and existing methods do not support group selection effectively.
Innovation Solution
A computerized method and system that provides hints for selecting multiple cells within a crosstab by determining compatible cells based on aggregation level and measure, using a hinting module to display compatible cells and a user selection correction module to ensure selections are limited to compatible cells, allowing for precise data manipulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional selection methods (clicking, dragging, keyboard) are used in GUIs, then basic item selection is achieved, but precision and discrimination in selecting specific items are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides visual feedback by highlighting compatible cells in the crosstab when a user selects a cell. This feedback mechanism guides the user's selection process by clearly indicating which cells are compatible for collective operations, thereby improving selection precision without increasing operational complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism (the highlighting system) between the user's selection action and the final selection result. This intermediary provides guidance by visually indicating compatible cells, enabling precise selection while maintaining ease of operation through intuitive visual cues
2Measurement precision
If row or column headings are clicked to select entire rows or columns in tabular data, then selection is simplified, but cell-level precision for analysis is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the selection mechanism into hierarchical levels: users can still select entire rows or columns by clicking headings for simplified operations, or select individual cells for precise analysis. The system accommodates both selection granularities without increasing overall mechanism complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The selection mechanism is made dynamic by allowing users to choose their desired level of precision. The system adapts to user needs by providing different selection modes (row/column level vs. cell level) and automatically determining compatibility based on the selected cell's position in the hierarchical data structure
3Measurement precision
If hierarchical data structures are used in crosstabs, then data organization is improved, but the ability to perform cell-level selections for analysis is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by determining compatibility based on the specific position and hierarchical level of the selected cell. Each cell's compatibility is determined locally based on its relationship to other cells in the hierarchical structure, enabling precise cell-level selection while maintaining adaptability to the overall hierarchical organization
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a new dimension to selection by introducing the concept of compatibility based on hierarchical levels. This additional dimension allows the system to provide cell-level selection precision while respecting the hierarchical structure, as compatibility is determined by considering both the selected cell's position and its relationship to other cells across different hierarchical levels
4Ease of operation
If Click Lock feature is used to emulate holding down mouse button, then accessibility for users with restricted mobility is improved, but group selection capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the benefits of Click Lock (accessibility) with group selection capability. When a user activates Click Lock and selects a cell, the system automatically identifies and includes all compatible cells in the selection based on hierarchical level and measure compatibility, thereby providing both accessibility and group selection support simultaneously
Data Source
AI summary
Described herein are methods and systems for providing hints for and selecting cells within a crosstab that are compatible. Providing hints manifests the compatible cells and the selection is limited to compatible members. Hinting at unselected but compatible cells provides leads for user for other operations they may seek to pursue. User selections that include incompatible cells are corrected to ensure integrity of group operations to be performed on the selections. Compatibility is determined by aggregation level, measure and the like.