Multi-selection Widget for Non-consecutive Time Periods
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current data analytics tools lack the ability to efficiently allow users to select non-consecutive time periods for analytical information, limiting user interaction and data analysis capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A multi-selection widget is developed, enabling users to dynamically select non-consecutive time periods across different reporting levels (years, quarters, months) using a grid-based interface, allowing for the provision of analytical information and alerts based on user selections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional single-selection widgets are used, then the interface is simple, but users cannot select non-consecutive time periods across multiple levels
Solution Approach 1:
The widget is divided into multiple sections, each corresponding to a different level of the time dimension hierarchy (e.g., years, quarters, months). Each section contains controls for selecting time periods at that specific level, allowing users to independently select non-consecutive periods across multiple levels without requiring a complex monolithic structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The widget extends the selection capability from a single dimension to multiple dimensions by organizing controls in a hierarchical structure. Users can select time periods across different levels (year, quarter, month) simultaneously, effectively adding dimensional depth to the selection process and enabling complex non-consecutive multi-level selections.
2Productivity
If multiple time periods are selected manually one by one, then selection precision is maintained, but user interaction time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The widget provides controls for each level of the time hierarchy that allow users to pre-select entire levels or ranges of time periods. For example, selecting a year automatically enables selection of any combination of quarters and months within that year, performing preliminary organization of selectable options before the user makes final selections.
Solution Approach 2:
The widget serves multiple functions within a single interface: it allows selection of single or multiple time periods, consecutive or non-consecutive selections, and selections at different hierarchical levels all simultaneously. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate widgets or repeated manual operations for different selection scenarios.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a grid-based interface with multiple controls is implemented, then selection flexibility improves, but interface complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each section of the grid interface is designed with specific local characteristics tailored to its time hierarchy level. For example, the year level section may display annual indicators, while the month level section displays monthly indicators with visual cues specific to that level. This localized design helps users navigate the complex grid by providing familiar patterns at each level rather than a uniform complex interface.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on a computer storage medium, for providing analytical information. The methods, systems, and apparatus include actions of providing code for a multi-selection widget. The widget includes multiple user-selectable controls aligned on a grid. The multiple user-selectable controls include a first set of one or more controls that are each associated with a different instance of a first level reporting period. The multiple user-selectable controls further include a second set of two or more controls that are each associated with a different instance of a second level reporting period that are shorter than the instances of the first level reporting period. The actions further include receiving a user selection of at least one control of the first set and at least one control of the second set and providing analytical information based on the user selection.