User Interface Selection for Data Storage Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users of data storage systems face challenges in accessing appropriate user interfaces due to varying levels of knowledge and expertise, which complicates tasks such as data storage configuration and provisioning, as existing systems lack flexibility in user interface management and selection.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method for user interface selection that provides multiple user interface sets with varying levels of abstraction, allowing users to select interfaces based on their knowledge level, with automatic updates and permission management to ensure appropriate access and interaction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single user interface is provided for data storage system configuration, then the system structure is simple, but it cannot accommodate users with varying levels of knowledge and expertise
Solution Approach 1:
The user interface is segmented into multiple distinct interface sets (first user interface set, second user interface set, etc.), each tailored to different user knowledge levels. This segmentation allows the system to provide appropriate complexity levels without overwhelming users, while the system manages multiple interfaces through centralized selection logic based on user identification.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically selects and presents the appropriate user interface set based on user identification and stored user information. This dynamic adaptation allows the interface complexity to change according to the specific user interacting with the system, providing simplicity for less knowledgeable users and advanced features for experts without requiring a completely different system architecture.
2Ease of operation
If multiple user interface sets are provided for different user levels, then user accessibility improves, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements a universal user identification and selection mechanism that works across all user interface sets. This multi-functional approach allows a single system architecture to serve multiple user levels by dynamically selecting the appropriate interface set, rather than requiring separate systems for each user type.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces an intermediary selection layer that sits between the user and the multiple user interface sets. This intermediary uses stored user information to automatically select the appropriate interface set, shielding users from the complexity of interface management while providing personalized access to the right level of interface complexity.
3Productivity
If advanced user interfaces are provided for expert users, then functionality is enhanced, but the interface complexity increases for all users
Solution Approach 1:
Different user interface sets provide different levels of detail and control based on local user needs. Expert users receive interfaces with advanced options and detailed controls for high-productivity tasks, while less knowledgeable users receive simplified interfaces with only essential functions, allowing each user group to operate at their appropriate complexity level without being exposed to unnecessary complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Described are techniques for user interface selection. A plurality of user interface sets is provided. Each of the plurality of user interface sets includes a plurality of user interfaces corresponding to a plurality of user levels of interaction. Each of the plurality of user levels of interaction is associated with a different level of abstraction with respect to processing performed in the data storage system for implementing a request. First user information associated with the user is provided. The first user information identifies one of said plurality of user levels for at least one of the plurality of user interface sets. A user interface is selected for display in connection with interactions with the user in accordance with the first user information. The selected user interface is displayed.