Report Template System for Simplifying Database Query Creation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Non-technical users face challenges in creating reports due to the complexity of query languages and the need to understand database schemas, especially when dealing with large and complicated data sets.
Innovation Solution
A system that uses a question-directed report creation process, automatically generating report entities and relationships based on business objects, allowing users to create reports through a user-friendly interface without requiring expertise in query languages like SQL.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If users create reports by issuing direct queries against the database, then they can access and analyze data, but they require extensive familiarity with query languages and database schemas which increases the complexity of operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces report templates as an intermediary layer between users and the database. These templates pre-define query structures, data sources, and analysis logic, allowing users to create reports by selecting and configuring templates rather than writing complex queries. This mediator absorbs the technical complexity while preserving data analysis capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-configuring report templates with established query structures, data source connections, and analysis parameters. Users benefit from this advance preparation by simply selecting templates and providing minimal input, rather than building reports from scratch each time.
2Adaptability or versatility
If users start report creation from scratch, then they have full flexibility, but they lack knowledge about previous work which makes the process overwhelming and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
Report templates embody preliminary actions by pre-defining common report structures, queries, and visualizations. Users start with these prepared templates rather than from scratch, significantly reducing creation time while maintaining flexibility to customize and adapt templates to specific needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables users to copy and reuse existing report templates and their underlying query structures. This copying mechanism preserves proven report designs while allowing users to adapt them for new purposes, avoiding redundant work and leveraging organizational knowledge.
3Quantity of substance
If the database schema is very large and complicated, then comprehensive data is available, but non-technical users cannot navigate and select appropriate data for their reports
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the large, complicated database schema into manageable report templates organized by business function, department, or data type. Each template encapsulates specific data subsets and query logic, making the overwhelming complexity divisible and navigable for non-technical users.
Solution Approach 2:
Report templates serve as intermediaries that hide the complexity of the large database schema. Users interact with simplified template interfaces rather than the underlying complex schema, while the system handles the translation to appropriate data queries and selections.
Data Source
AI summary
In an implementation, when creating a report, a user is provided with one or more suggestions for the report, such as a suggested grouping category, based on what has been done in one or more previous reports.