Electronic Message Object Drop Feature for Application Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users face inefficiencies and errors when performing repetitive tasks in software applications, such as database management and email handling, due to the need for manual typing and frequent switching between applications, which can be tedious and disruptive.
Innovation Solution
A method and graphical user interface (GUI) that allows users to drop electronic message objects to extract information and perform operations in associated application programs, such as searching or creating records, without storing the message object, using drag and drop technology across the GUI, with optional invisible or multiple drop areas for different operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If users manually type information into input fields and click buttons to perform operations, then operations can be executed in the application program, but the process becomes tedious and error-prone, especially when performed repeatedly
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically extracts information from the dropped electronic message object and performs the desired operation without requiring manual typing or button clicks. The application program self-completes the data entry and operation execution based on the dropped object's content, eliminating repetitive manual input and improving both ease of operation and productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical interaction of typing on keyboards and clicking buttons with a drag-and-drop mechanism. Users simply drop the electronic message object onto the application program, and the system automatically processes the information extraction and operation execution, substituting manual mechanical input with a more efficient object-based interaction
2Productivity
If users manually type characters in input fields, then information can be entered into the application program, but typing errors occur more frequently, especially during repetitive tasks
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of manually typing information, users copy the electronic message object (which contains the required information) and drop it onto the application program. The system then extracts and uses the information from the copied object, eliminating typing errors while maintaining productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The application program automatically extracts information from the dropped electronic message object without requiring manual data entry. This self-service approach ensures accurate information transfer while eliminating the human error factor associated with repetitive typing
3Adaptability or versatility
If users switch between email program and business-specific program to complete tasks, then operations can be performed in the appropriate programs, but the process becomes disruptive and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the email handling function with the business-specific program operation by allowing direct dropping of electronic message objects onto the business program. This integration eliminates the need to switch between applications, reducing time loss while maintaining the adaptability to handle different types of operations
Solution Approach 2:
The drag-and-drop mechanism serves as an intermediary that connects the email program and business-specific program. Users drop the electronic message object onto the business program, and the system acts as a mediator to extract information and execute operations, eliminating the need for manual switching between applications
4Ease of operation
If users manually enter sender's name in the business-specific program, then records can be located or created, but the process requires multiple steps and hand movements, increasing task complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the sender's name and other relevant information directly from the electronic message object when it is dropped onto the business-specific program. This extraction eliminates the need for manual entry, reducing the number of steps and hand movements required while simplifying the overall operation
Data Source
AI summary
A user is aided in using an application program. A method may include receiving an input in a computer system upon a user dropping an electronic message object in a graphical user interface of an application program. Upon receiving the input, an information portion is extracted from the electronic message object. An operation is performed in the application program with the extracted information portion as a parameter, wherein the electronic message object is not stored in association with the application program. When the performed operation includes a data repository query, a learning function or an ambiguity-resolving feature may be used.