Dynamic Context Menu Generation for Efficient Object Browsing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current user interfaces for applications require users to learn navigation sequences and are not efficient, especially when new features are added, as they follow a command-oriented approach that limits simultaneous operations and necessitates user training.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that dynamically generate context menus based on checked rules for working lists, allowing users to browse applications without learning navigation sequences and enabling simultaneous operations without additional training for new features.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a command-oriented user interface is used, then the application structure is organized and manageable, but the user must learn navigation sequences and cannot perform multiple operations simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The context menu is dynamically generated based on the current working list and selected objects, rather than using a static command-oriented interface. The menu adapts to the user's current context and selections, providing relevant operations without requiring knowledge of navigation sequences.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically determines which operations to display in the context menu based on the current state and selected objects. The user simply needs to select objects and the system presents appropriate operations, eliminating the need for users to learn or remember navigation sequences.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a command-oriented user interface is used, then operations can be performed in a structured manner, but new features require user training and cannot be easily added
Solution Approach 1:
The context menu structure is dynamic and can be easily extended with new operations without affecting the overall interface paradigm. New features can be added to the working list or object types, and the context menu automatically adapts to include relevant new operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The context menu serves as a universal interface for all operations, whether existing or new. Any operation that can be performed on objects in the working list can be added to the context menu without requiring changes to the fundamental interface structure or user training.
3Productivity
If a navigation sequence approach is used, then the application provides step-by-step guidance, but the user can only perform one operation at a time and efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The interface presents operations in a segmented, context-specific manner through the dynamic context menu. Instead of requiring users to follow a complex overall navigation sequence, the menu segments operations based on the current context, showing only relevant options at each step.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary analysis of the current working list and selected objects to determine which operations are relevant. This preliminary action allows the context menu to present only the appropriate operations, eliminating the need for users to navigate through irrelevant options or remember complex sequences.
Data Source
AI summary
A method, system and computer program product for object based browsing suitable for use in various applications is provided. The method includes receiving one or more working lists. Thereafter, one or more rules corresponding to the one or more working lists are checked. One or more context menus for the one or more working lists are then dynamically generated based on the checking.