Progressive Data Mapping Interface for Complex Hierarchies
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing data mapping tools face complexity in handling schema differences between data storage systems, leading to cumbersome interfaces for users when mapping data values across systems, especially for complex data objects and hierarchies.
Innovation Solution
A progressive user interface is provided that guides users through a step-by-step definition of data mappings, using postfix notation and contextually-determined menus to ensure structurally valid actions, facilitating the serialization of mapping definitions and generation of implementation code.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional graphical user interface tools are used to map data values between systems, then users can define mappings between data entities, but the interface becomes complicated and cumbersome when handling complex data objects and hierarchies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the data mapping process into distinct hierarchical levels (source system level, source object level, destination object level, destination system level). Each level is presented separately to the user through a structured interface, allowing complex mappings to be broken down into manageable segments rather than displayed as a single complicated web of connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new dimensional organization for the user interface by implementing a hierarchical navigation structure with multiple levels of abstraction. Instead of displaying all mappings in a single flat view, the interface organizes mappings across four distinct hierarchical dimensions, allowing users to navigate and define mappings step-by-step through each level.
2Adaptability or versatility
If comprehensive mapping tools are provided to handle all data mapping scenarios, then mapping capability is enhanced, but the interface and process become more complex for users
Solution Approach 1:
The mapping tool is segmented into modular components corresponding to each hierarchical level. The interface presents separate configuration areas for source system parameters, source object attributes, destination object attributes, and destination system parameters, allowing comprehensive mapping functionality to be delivered through organized, manageable segments rather than a monolithic complex interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The interface dynamically adapts its complexity based on the user's progress through the mapping process. The system activates and deactivates different interface elements and validation rules depending on the current hierarchical level being configured, providing comprehensive functionality when needed while maintaining simplicity at each individual step.
3Ease of operation
If step-by-step progressive interface is implemented to guide users through mapping definition, then ease of use is improved, but the process requires more structured steps
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-organizing the mapping process into a fixed hierarchical structure with four defined levels. Validation rules and interface elements are prepared in advance for each level, guiding users through the process step-by-step without requiring users to design their own process structure, thus improving ease of use while maintaining structured process control.
Data Source
AI summary
Data mapping techniques are disclosed. A representation of a first destination data field to which data is to be mapped is provided via a displayed user interface. One or more other destination data fields are not displayed at the same time as the first destination data field is displayed. A user input comprising a selection of a source data input field to be used to determine a data value for the first destination field is received. The displayed user interface is updated to include a representation of the selected source data input field and a control, wherein user interface code with which the displayed user interface is associated is responsive to provide via the displayed user interface a set of structurally valid options to further define how the data value for the first destination field is to be determined.