Workflow Step Selection for Partial Drag-and-Drop Execution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing information processing systems face difficulties in executing part of a workflow with multiple steps easily, particularly when starting at an intermediate step or editing the workflow.
Innovation Solution
An information processing apparatus that displays workflow steps when a file is dragged to a folder and allows execution of the workflow starting from a selected step by dropping the file onto that step, with options for editing and predicting execution results.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a workflow with multiple steps is set beforehand in a folder, then the workflow can be executed automatically, but it becomes difficult to execute only part of the workflow starting from an intermediate step
Solution Approach 1:
The workflow is divided into discrete steps that can be individually selected and executed. Each step becomes an independent selectable unit within the workflow sequence, allowing users to execute specific portions of the workflow rather than being forced to execute the entire workflow from the beginning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a new dimension of interaction by allowing drag-and-drop operations directly onto specific workflow steps in addition to the traditional folder-based execution. This creates multiple pathways for workflow execution: either by dragging files to the folder for full workflow execution, or by dragging files onto specific steps for partial workflow execution.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a new workflow is produced to execute from an intermediate step, then partial workflow execution is possible, but the process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The complete workflow with all its steps is prepared and configured in advance. This preliminary setup creates a reusable template that can be selectively executed later without requiring reconfiguration. The workflow structure, including all steps and their relationships, is established beforehand so that partial execution can be achieved by simply selecting which steps to activate.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of creating entirely new workflows for partial execution, the system allows copying and reusing the existing workflow structure. Users can select specific steps from the pre-configured workflow to execute, effectively copying only the necessary portion of the workflow rather than recreating it from scratch.
3Productivity
If the entire workflow is executed from the beginning, then all steps are processed, but intermediate steps cannot be executed independently
Solution Approach 1:
The workflow execution model is made dynamic, allowing the starting point and scope of execution to be adjusted based on user needs. The system can adapt between executing the complete workflow from the beginning or executing only from a specific intermediate step, providing flexible control over the execution scope without requiring separate workflow configurations.
Data Source
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AI summary
An information processing apparatus includes a processor configured to: if a file serving as a process target is dragged to a folder where a workflow including multiple steps is set beforehand, display the steps included in the workflow set in the folder; and if the file is dropped onto a step of interest out of the displayed steps, perform a process of executing the workflow, starting with the step of interest.