Workflow Visualization Apparatus for Unified Process Status Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing workflow management systems fail to effectively visualize and manage processes with delayed processing in a single image, making it difficult for users to grasp the status of multiple processes within a workflow.
Innovation Solution
An information processing apparatus that determines the progress of each process in a workflow and generates a single image based on first images representing these processes, allowing users to visualize the status of multiple processes in a unified display.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple processes are displayed separately in workflow management systems, then each process can be monitored individually, but users cannot grasp the overall workflow status and delayed processes in a single image
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple process images into a single unified image that represents the entire workflow. Each process is depicted as an icon within the single image, allowing users to grasp the status of all processes simultaneously without needing to switch between multiple separate displays.
Solution Approach 2:
The single workflow image is segmented into multiple process icons, where each icon represents a specific process. This segmentation allows users to quickly identify and focus on particular processes while maintaining an overview of the entire workflow structure.
2Measurement precision
If detailed process information is displayed for each process, then process status can be monitored accurately, but the overall workflow overview becomes obscured
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges detailed process information with workflow overview in a single image. Each process icon contains sufficient detail to understand its status while the arrangement and context of icons within the unified image provide the overall workflow perspective, preventing information loss.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the single image have different levels of detail. Process icons that require more attention or show delayed status are highlighted with enhanced visual properties, while other processes are displayed with standard detail, allowing accurate monitoring without obscuring the overall overview.
3Productivity
If workflow status is displayed using traditional separate process views, then process details are visible, but users experience difficulty in identifying delayed processes quickly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses color changes and visual highlighting in the single workflow image to indicate delayed or problematic processes. Icons representing delayed processes are displayed with distinct visual characteristics (such as different colors or highlighting) that enable users to quickly identify issues without time-consuming analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The single workflow image dynamically updates to reflect real-time process status changes. When processes are completed or delayed, the visual representation automatically adjusts, providing immediate feedback and eliminating the need for users to manually check or refresh separate process views.
Data Source
AI summary
An information processing apparatus includes a processor configured to determine progress of each of two or more processes included in a workflow and display a second image that is a single image generated based on first images respectively representing the two or more processes and the determined progress.