Unified Search Interface for Multi-Type Object Identification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current computer systems require users to initiate separate application programs for different object types, leading to inefficiencies in searching and managing multiple object types, as users must switch between applications for each search task.
Innovation Solution
A graphical user interface (GUI) with an input control that allows users to specify an object type, attribute, and attribute value, enabling a single interface to execute searches across multiple object types and initiate the appropriate application program for results presentation, while allowing seamless switching between different object types without reinitializing the system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If users initiate separate application programs for different object types, then each application can manage its specific object type effectively, but users must repeatedly switch between applications and reinitialize the system for each search task
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal search interface that can handle multiple object types (accounts, products, activities, marketing plans, etc.) within a single application program. The system presents a unified search control that accepts object type, attribute, and attribute value inputs, then routes the search to the appropriate application or manages the results directly, eliminating the need for users to manually initiate different applications for different object types.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the system provides separate application programs for different object types, then each application can provide specialized management functions, but the device complexity increases and users must manage multiple applications
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary search interface that acts as a mediator between the user and multiple object type applications. This search control serves as a unified entry point that accepts search criteria for any object type, determines the appropriate target application or data source, and presents results in a consistent format. The intermediary layer maintains the specialized functionality of individual applications while providing a simplified, unified user experience.
3Measurement precision
If users must reinitialize the system for each search task, then each search can be precisely targeted to the specific application context, but productivity decreases due to repeated initialization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a persistent search interface that remains available across different applications and search tasks. The search control is pre-configured with the necessary input fields and validation rules for multiple object types, allowing users to immediately perform searches without initialization delays. The system maintains the search functionality in a ready state, enabling users to quickly switch between different object type searches while preserving search precision through structured input requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
In a computer system having several application programs, wherein each application program is configured to manage at least one of several object types, a method of identifying objects includes receiving a first input that a user makes under guidance of an input control in a graphical user interface (GUI) to specify 1) a user-selected object type, 2) a user-selected attribute that is associated with the user-selected object type, and 3) a user-selected attribute value for the user-selected attribute. The method includes executing a search in the computer system for any objects corresponding to the first input. The method includes initiating a first application program that is configured to manage objects of the user-selected object type, wherein the first application program presents a result of the search in the GUI. The input control may remain visible with the application, for executing a new search for the same or another object type.