Hierarchical Icon Wizard for Data Entry
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for data entry in data processing systems are often cumbersome and time-consuming, particularly for complex tasks, as users need to perform repetitive operations in a specific sequence, and the creation of wizards to guide users is labor-intensive.
Innovation Solution
A method that displays a first linear sequence of top-level icons with assigned second-level icons, allowing users to enter data intuitively through aligned sequences and navigation buttons, facilitating easy navigation and data entry by visualizing the 'road map' of tasks and sub-tasks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If traditional data entry methods are used, then users can complete data entry tasks, but the interaction time is excessive and the process is cumbersome
Solution Approach 1:
The data entry process is segmented into multiple hierarchical levels (top-level icons representing main tasks, second-level icons representing sub-tasks). This segmentation allows users to navigate through structured steps rather than facing a monolithic complex form, reducing perceived complexity and interaction time while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by automatically generating wizard code and pre-configuring data entry sequences. This eliminates the need for users to manually perform repetitive setup operations, significantly reducing interaction time while preserving ease of operation through automated guidance.
2Ease of operation
If wizards are created to guide users through complex tasks, then ease of operation improves, but the time and difficulty of creating wizards increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service wizard creation through automatic code generation. When a user defines data entry requirements, the system automatically generates the necessary wizard code and configuration, eliminating the need for manual wizard creation and reducing both time and difficulty of implementation while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-configuring wizard templates and data structures. This allows wizards to be deployed quickly without extensive manual setup, improving ease of manufacture while maintaining the guided assistance that improves ease of operation for end users.
3Manufacturing precision
If detailed data entry fields are provided for each step, then data accuracy improves, but the complexity of the interface increases
Solution Approach 1:
The interface is segmented into hierarchical levels where top-level icons represent main data entry categories and second-level icons represent specific data fields. This segmentation presents detailed data entry fields only when needed at the appropriate level, maintaining data accuracy while reducing perceived interface complexity by hiding unnecessary details until required.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a temporal dimension to interface complexity by progressively revealing data entry fields as users navigate through the wizard steps. Detailed fields are not all presented simultaneously but are revealed sequentially as needed, maintaining data accuracy while reducing the apparent complexity at any given moment.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a method of entering of data in a data processing system. A first linear sequence of top-level icons is displayed. A second linear sequence of second-level icons for a selected one of the top-level icons is also displayed such that the position of the leading icon of the second linear sequence is aligned with the selected one of the top-level icons of the first linear sequence. At least one data entry field for a selected one of the second-level icons is also displayed.