Reversible Switch Framework for Business Software Configuration
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current enhancement package models for business software cause disruption and lack a cost-effective way to reverse changes, as they often overwrite configuration data and lack mechanisms to assess or revert installations effectively.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for managing configuration data enhancements that include a switch framework with a switch status table, allowing business functions to be activated and deactivated reversibly, and using predefined configuration logic to manage interdependencies between data enhancements, ensuring that only selected functionality is active and providing a mechanism to reverse changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If enhancement packages overwrite configuration data to deliver new functionality, then new functionality is implemented, but configuration data is lost and system disruption occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by detecting configuration data overlaps between enhancement packages and existing system configuration before installation. This early detection allows the system to identify potential conflicts and prevent data loss before it occurs, maintaining configuration integrity while still enabling new functionality deployment
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism (the detection and prevention system) that mediates between enhancement packages and existing configuration data. This intermediary layer analyzes compatibility, identifies overlaps, and prevents harmful overwrites, allowing both new functionality and existing configuration to coexist
2Adaptability or versatility
If enhancement packages are installed to add functionality, then system capabilities are enhanced, but the ability to reverse changes is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback by providing visibility into what configuration changes an enhancement package will make. The detection mechanism reports back potential overlaps and conflicts before installation, allowing users to make informed decisions about whether to proceed, modify, or cancel the enhancement installation
Solution Approach 2:
By performing preliminary detection of configuration overlaps before enhancement installation, the system allows users to take preliminary actions such as reviewing potential conflicts, selecting specific enhancements to install, or preparing rollback procedures, thereby maintaining reversibility and control over system changes
3Adaptability or versatility
If all enhancement functions are activated to maximize functionality, then system capabilities are comprehensive, but system complexity and disruption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables partial action by allowing users to selectively activate only those enhancement functions that are compatible with existing configuration and business needs. The detection mechanism identifies which enhancements can be safely activated versus which would cause conflicts, enabling a subset activation strategy that reduces complexity while maintaining essential functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments enhancement packages into individual activatable functions with distinct configuration requirements. This segmentation allows the system to manage complexity by handling enhancements individually rather than as monolithic units, enabling selective activation and easier configuration management
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention may provide "undo" (e.g., rollback) features, along with data management simplification features, to an update package model of software suite development/evolution. New functions, which may have disruption effects for customers, may be installed into the core configuration data with inactive switches. Upon activation, a switch status may change, and a query filter may use the activated function (e.g., as associated with the switch ID). Original functions may be maintained, giving the user the ability to deactivate an activated function, and thereby reverting the system back to the prior configuration status.