Workflow Component Representational View Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing workflow systems lack the ability to accommodate varying user preferences for representational complexity, with non-technical users needing human-readable logic depictions and technically skilled users requiring access to underlying code.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method and system that allows users to switch between different representational levels of a workflow component through a detail level selector, including visual, constrained, stylized, and programming code representations, enabling users to modify functionality at various levels of complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a workflow system provides only a visual representation of workflow components, then non-technical users can easily understand and modify the logic, but technically skilled users cannot access the underlying code for detailed modifications
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between different representational views (visual, constrained, code) based on user selection. The detail level selector allows the same workflow component to be displayed at different levels of abstraction, enabling both non-technical and technical users to access the information they need without compromising either group's ease of operation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a workflow system provides only detailed programming code access, then technically skilled users can make precise modifications, but non-technical users cannot understand the logic in a human-readable format
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides dynamic view switching that adapts the level of detail based on user needs. Non-technical users can access visual and constrained representations for easy modification, while technical users can switch to code-level views for precise modifications. This eliminates the need to choose between accessibility and detail.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a workflow system provides multiple levels of representational detail, then users with different technical skills can access appropriate views, but the interface complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The interface is segmented into distinct representational layers (visual view, constrained view, code view) that are organized hierarchically. A detail level selector provides a simple entry point to switch between these segments, preventing the complexity from overwhelming the user while maintaining access to multiple levels of detail.
4Device complexity
If a workflow system uses a single fixed representational view, then the interface remains simple, but it cannot accommodate users with varying technical skill levels
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a static, fixed view to a dynamic, adaptable view that responds to user selections. The detail level selector enables the interface to adjust its complexity and representational depth based on the user's technical skills, maintaining simplicity for beginners while providing depth for experts without requiring multiple separate interfaces.
Data Source
AI summary
In embodiments of the present invention improved capabilities are described for modifying the display of a workflow component from including a depiction of a first representation level to a depiction of a second representation level, wherein one of the depiction at the first representation level and the depiction at the second representation level includes a depiction of the functionality associated with the workflow component and the other of the depiction at the first representation level and the depiction at the second representation level includes a view of programming code for providing the functionality associated with the workflow component.