Abstract: In a cursor-based computing environment generating a display, a user-definable interface is configured by a user and activated when needed by a user, wherein the user-definable interface comprises a plurality of buttons. Functions of the buttons are selectable by the user according to his preferences. These preferences may be derived from applications or by functions selected exclusively by the user. An application (ZTool) is also described, this application allowing configuration of a display in accordance with predetermined parameters. These parameters may be related to data base access functions or other types of data access, including logistical support.

Abstract: A system and method for using a user definable interface (UDI). A display displays the interface. The interface comprises a plurality of levels each having a plurality of command regions. The visual appearance of the interface remains substantially the same for each of the plurality of levels and only one of the levels appears at a given time. An input device allows a user to select among the command regions at each of the plurality of levels to access another level or perform a function associated with a selected one of the command regions.

Abstract: In a cursor-based computing environment having a display, a user definable interface (UDI) is displayed upon activation by a user. The UDI has a plurality of levels each having a plurality of buttons and is displayed in a selectable position about a pointer position in a display area to reduce pointer commute. The user selects a visual appearance and shape of the UDI, and the number of buttons. The user assigns a command to each of the plurality of buttons at each of the plurality of levels by dragging and dropping from one or more applications of the apparatus.

Abstract: In a cursor-based computing environment having a display, a user definable interface (UDI) is displayed upon activation by a user. The UDI has a plurality of levels each having a plurality of buttons and is displayed in a selectable position about a pointer position in a display area to reduce pointer commute. The user selects a visual appearance and shape of the UDI, and the number of buttons. The user assigns a command to each of the plurality of buttons at each of the plurality of levels by dragging and dropping from one or more applications of the apparatus.

Abstract: In a cursor-based computing environment having a display, a user definable interface (UDI) is displayed upon activation by a user, wherein the UDI has a plurality of buttons and is displayed in a relative position about a cursor position to reduce cursor commute. The present invention permits the user to select a visual appearance and shape of the UDI, and the number of buttons. The present invention also permits the user to assign a command to each of the plurality of buttons by dragging and dropping from one or more applications of the apparatus.