Generic Portal Template Dynamic Registration Connector Framework
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Solution Overview
Problem
Adapting NetWeaver portal environments to new external information systems is a tedious and error-prone process, requiring frequent adjustments to portal templates due to changes in external information systems, such as new versions with different properties or metadata.
Innovation Solution
Implementing an extendible generic portal template that includes common properties and using a connector framework to dynamically expose metadata and methods, allowing for the creation of new system templates that adapt to changes in external information systems, with the ability to add 'delta links' to incorporate new properties and values, facilitating seamless access to new or modified systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a specialized portal template is defined for each type of external information system, then the connection between portal and external system can be established, but the process becomes tedious and error-prone when adapting to new systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by creating a single generic portal template that can serve multiple types of external information systems. This template includes a set of standard properties and a mechanism to dynamically add new properties when needed, eliminating the need to create separate specialized templates for each system type while maintaining the ability to adapt to various external systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics through the ability of the generic template to evolve over time. The template starts with a core set of properties and can dynamically add new properties when external information systems introduce new features or metadata. This dynamic extension mechanism allows the template to adapt to changing system requirements without requiring complete redesign.
2Adaptability or versatility
If portal templates are adjusted frequently to accommodate changes in external information systems, then the portal can adapt to new versions, but the process becomes time-consuming and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by enabling the template to evolve automatically in response to external system changes. When a new external information system version is introduced with different properties or metadata, the system can dynamically add new properties to the generic template without requiring manual reconfiguration. This automated adaptation significantly reduces the time and error rate associated with template adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service through automated property detection and template extension. When external information systems undergo modifications, the system automatically detects the changes and extends the generic template to accommodate them, eliminating the need for manual intervention in template adjustment processes and reducing both time loss and human error.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a generic portal template is used to access multiple external information systems, then reusability is improved, but the template must be extendible to handle diverse system properties
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the template into a core generic portion and extendible property portions. The core template contains common properties that work across all external information systems, while specific properties can be added as needed for particular systems. This segmentation allows the template to maintain reusability for common cases while providing extensibility for diverse system requirements without creating overall complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent reinforces universality by designing a generic template that serves as a universal foundation for accessing multiple external information systems. The template includes a standardized set of properties and a unified extension mechanism that can accommodate diverse system characteristics, maintaining reusability across different system types while providing the flexibility needed for specialized requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A generic portal template includes properties that are common to all system templates. Using the generic portal template, a connector framework is exploited in order to expose every type of external information system generically and to make available to a portal its exposed metadata, methods, and other properties dynamically. The generic portal template is extendible to accommodate new properties of an external information system. The generic portal template is reusable when new external information systems are recognized. The generic portal template is especially advantageous when it is desired to access third party external information systems, such as databases or applications in a portal.