GUI Field Selection for Report Generation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current report generator software is cumbersome and requires operators to have knowledge of database structures, limiting the ability of non-technical users to generate reports efficiently within applications used for transactions.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that displays fields in a graphical user interface with graphical indicators, allowing users to select fields for report creation without leaving the transaction application, using a report generator integrated within the system to create and send reports directly to output devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional report generator software is used, then reports can be generated from database sources, but operators need knowledge of database structures (fields, tables, columns) which increases the complexity barrier and limits usability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a graphical user interface as an intermediary layer between the operator and the database structure. The GUI displays database fields in a user-friendly format with graphical indicators, eliminating the need for operators to directly interact with or understand the underlying database schema. This mediator translates complex database structures into simple visual elements that can be easily selected for report generation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses graphical indicators including color-coded markers to visually distinguish different types of fields and their selectability. By using visual cues such as colors to indicate which fields can be selected for reports and which cannot, the system makes database structure information intuitive and easily understandable without requiring technical knowledge of database schemas.
2Productivity
If operators need additional training in report generator software and databases, then they can generate reports, but this increases the time and resources required for operation and limits the number of operators who can generate reports
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables operators to generate reports independently without requiring specialized training in database structures or report generator software. The self-service capability is achieved through the intuitive GUI that automatically identifies selectable fields and presents them with graphical indicators, allowing operators to create reports by simply selecting visible elements rather than navigating complex database schemas.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary identification and classification of database fields before the operator needs to generate a report. By pre-processing the database structure to determine which fields are selectable and marking them with graphical indicators, the system eliminates the need for operators to spend time understanding database structures during report generation operations.
3Ease of operation
If operators use traditional report generator software, then they can create reports, but the process is more difficult and time-consuming for operators who do not generate reports very often
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the report generation process into simple, discrete steps visible through the graphical interface. Instead of presenting operators with a monolithic complex system, the GUI breaks down the field selection process into individual visual elements that can be easily identified and selected. Each field is separately marked with graphical indicators, making the segmentation of information intuitive and the selection process rapid.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for generating reports. A computer system displays an application with fields in a graphical user interface on a display system. The application is used to perform transactions for an organization. The computer system identifies a group of the fields displayed in the graphical user interface that is selectable for use in a group of the reports. The computer system displays a group of graphical indicators in association with the group of the fields in the graphical user interface. The computer system receives a selection of a portion of the group of the fields displayed in the graphical user interface in user input. The computer system creates the group of the reports using the portion of the group of the fields. The computer system sends the group of the reports to an output device, enabling performing an operation for the organization using the group of the reports.