Dynamic Input Grid for Structured Data Entry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current data entry methods, such as spreadsheets and software wizards, lack an efficient interface for users to input and manage primary and supplementary data variables in a structured and user-friendly manner, particularly in computer systems used by organizations for data collection and storage.
Innovation Solution
A system and method utilizing an input grid and input form within a user interface, where users can select rows to input primary data, expand to input supplementary data, and collapse to display summaries, facilitated by a control module that manages primary and supplementary input variables stored in a repository.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a spreadsheet interface is used for data entry, then the interface is simple and easy to understand, but it lacks sophisticated querying and guiding capabilities for users
Solution Approach 1:
The interface is segmented into two distinct views: a spreadsheet view for data overview and an input form view for detailed data entry. The input form is further segmented into primary variables (always visible) and supplementary variables (accessible via expand/collapse). This segmentation allows the system to maintain simplicity while providing sophisticated guidance capabilities when needed.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a software wizard interface is used for data entry, then sophisticated querying and guiding capabilities are provided, but the interface complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The interface dynamically adapts between spreadsheet and input form views based on user needs. The input form can be expanded or collapsed to show or hide supplementary variables, allowing the interface to simplify or elaborate as required. This dynamic behavior enables sophisticated guidance capabilities while maintaining the option for simplicity.
3Loss of information
If all data fields are displayed simultaneously, then users have complete information available, but the interface becomes cluttered and difficult to navigate
Solution Approach 1:
The input form is nested within the spreadsheet interface. Supplementary variables are nested within expandable/collapsible sections of the input form. This nesting structure allows all data fields to be available (not lost) while maintaining a clean, navigable interface by showing only essential information by default and revealing additional information on demand.
4Loss of information
If the input form is always expanded, then all supplementary data fields are visible for entry, but the interface consumes excessive screen space
Solution Approach 1:
The input form implements dynamic expand/collapse functionality that allows users to adjust the visible area based on their needs. By default, only primary variables are visible to conserve screen space. When supplementary data entry is needed, users can expand the input form to reveal additional fields. This dynamic behavior optimizes screen space utilization while ensuring all information is accessible when required.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for obtaining data from a user includes receiving a row selection in an input grid, where each column is associated with one of a plurality of primary input variables, and where each row is configured to display primary data corresponding with the plurality of primary input variables, receiving a request to expand the row to display an input form, where the input form comprises a plurality of fields, where each of the plurality of fields is associated with one of a plurality of supplementary input variables, and where the plurality of fields are configured to display supplementary data corresponding with the plurality of supplementary input variables. The method further includes expanding the row to display the input form, obtaining and storing supplementary data for the input form, collapsing the row to hide the input form, and displaying a summary of supplementary data stored for the input form.