On-demand software access system for reducing installation size
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Solution Overview
Problem
The current software environment is characterized by bloated, expensive, and inefficient software suites that include unnecessary features, leading to increased costs and performance issues, particularly for businesses and individuals who need specific applications but are burdened with additional features they do not require.
Innovation Solution
An on-demand software access system that allows users to select and access only the necessary software applications via a remote processing system connected to their local device, enabling rental or subscription-based usage on a daily, one-time, or permanent basis, with features like usage accounting, centralized data storage, and seamless integration across multiple devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If users purchase integrated software suites with multiple features, then they gain access to a variety of applications, but they pay for and install features they do not need, increasing cost and system complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The software suite is divided into separate, independently selectable applications. Users can choose to install only the specific applications they need (e.g., word processor, spreadsheet, presentation) rather than installing a bundled suite. This segmentation allows users to reduce installation size while maintaining access to needed features.
Solution Approach 2:
Different parts of the software system have different installation locations. Frequently used applications are installed locally on the user's computer, while less frequently used applications remain on the vendor's server and are accessed on-demand. This allows the local system to remain small while maintaining access to a comprehensive suite.
2Adaptability or versatility
If users purchase integrated software suites with multiple features, then they gain access to a variety of applications, but they pay more than necessary for features they may not need
Solution Approach 1:
The software licensing model is made dynamic and flexible. Users can subscribe to different levels of service (basic, standard, premium) and can easily add or remove applications based on their changing needs. This dynamic approach allows users to pay only for what they currently need rather than committing to a fixed, comprehensive suite.
Solution Approach 2:
Users are empowered to select and configure their own software packages based on their specific needs. The system provides self-service capabilities where users can choose which applications to install or access, rather than being forced to accept a predetermined bundle. This allows users to optimize their spending by selecting only the features they actually use.
3Adaptability or versatility
If comprehensive software suites are installed on user computers, then all features are available locally, but system performance deteriorates due to resource consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The system moves from a single-dimension local installation model to a multi-dimensional model where software can exist on multiple levels: core applications installed locally for fast access, and additional applications hosted remotely for on-demand access. This dimensional change allows users to maintain high local performance while accessing comprehensive functionality through the extended remote dimension.
4Adaptability or versatility
If software licenses and upgrades are managed for multiple features, then users have access to comprehensive functionality, but management complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple license management functions are merged into a single centralized system. The vendor's server consolidates license issuance, activation, renewal, and upgrade management for all applications in the suite. Users interact with a single interface rather than managing separate licenses for each application, significantly reducing management complexity while maintaining access to comprehensive functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
An on-demand software and service access system has a remote processing system or remote service provider accessible via the Internet or other network, and a local system which runs on a user's local device. The remote system has a plurality of different software applications, operating systems, and central data storage means for selective access by authorized users from their local computer via a network or the Internet, as well as a profile manager for providing user registration, user login, and loading of user selected settings and services onto the local system. Usage of the selected software applications is provided on a subscription basis for applications required by users on a daily basis, as well as on a one-time purchase basis, for one time use, for use only for a specific time period, or permanently.