Map Editor Using XML Schema Transformation for Complex Business Mappings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current business process map editors, such as Websphere Business Modeler version 6.2 and older, have limited functions, making it difficult for business analysts to create complex mappings, and there is a need for a tool that leverages IT-based mapping tools to minimize duplication of effort and enhance mapping capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that utilizes an XML mapping infrastructure to transform business object models into XML schemas, allowing for more complex mappings and providing a dual-view editor for business analysts, enabling them to work with both business object models and XML schemas, while minimizing performance impacts through mechanisms like incremental updates and caching.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a simple map editor is used (Websphere Business Modeler 6.2 and older), then the tool is easy to operate, but the mapping functions are limited and cannot handle complex mappings
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the simple map editor interface with the powerful XML mapping infrastructure behind the scenes. Business analysts use the familiar simple editor UI, while the system automatically leverages the rich XML mapping capabilities to handle complex mappings, thus combining ease of use with advanced functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary layer that translates between the simple map editor operations and the complex XML mapping infrastructure. This intermediary handles the complexity of XML schemas and mappings transparently, allowing business analysts to work with simple interfaces while achieving complex mapping results.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate business-analyst-based tools and IT-based tools are developed, then each tool can be optimized for its specific user group, but there is duplication of effort and increased development costs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal map editor platform that serves both business analysts and IT professionals. By building on the common XML mapping infrastructure used by IT tools, the system provides a unified platform that can be optimized for different user groups without requiring separate tool developments.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the tool into two layers: a user interface layer optimized for business analysts and a backend XML mapping infrastructure layer that IT professionals already use. This segmentation allows each layer to be optimized independently while sharing the common infrastructure, reducing duplication.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the XML mapping infrastructure is used directly, then complex mappings can be defined, but the interface may be too technical for business analysts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a simplified copy or representation of the XML mapping interface that is tailored for business analysts. Instead of presenting the raw technical XML interface, it provides a business-friendly copy with appropriate terminology and interaction patterns while maintaining the underlying XML mapping capabilities.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for implementing a map editor for business analysts is disclosed herein. In one embodiment, such a method includes receiving a business object model including at least one business object. The business object model is transformed into an XSD-based model including at least one XML schema. The XSD-based model is then fed into an XML mapping infrastructure for model map processing. After processing, the XSD-based model is transformed into a resulting business object model. The resulting business object model may then be displayed for use by a business analyst. A corresponding computer program product and system are also disclosed herein.