Abstract: A method for mapping a file specification to a sequence of zero or more actions. A file specification consists of any finite string of bits that provides information about the identity of a file in a computer's file system. An action can be any process that effects a change upon the computer system containing the file. The mapping method involves sequentially applying a list of pattern/action rules, with each rule's action being executed if the rule's pattern matches the file specification. Upon completion, the series of actions that has been executed is the sequence of actions corresponding to the file specification.

Abstract: A method for matching-elements of two groups of data objects whose elements do not necessarily exactly match. The method consists of examining successively more abstract projections of the two groups until exact matches occur within elements of the same group, or between elements of the different groups or until there are no longer any more abstract projections to apply. Both random access end sequential embodiments are described.