Abstract: Using introspection for access to class resource bundle information for the display and update of pairs of related graphical user interface (“GUI”) panels. In preferred embodiments, a Java resource bundle is provided with a first array containing pairs of key strings and corresponding text blocks and a second array containing pairs of key strings and corresponding text blocks, with the first key identifying a list entry and the second key identifying the text block corresponding to the list entry. This data structure may be used in the display of a pair of GUI panels, representing for example a list of help topics where the help text corresponds to a selected help topic. By introspecting, a mouse listener can efficiently find and display the help text corresponding to a topic selected by a mouse click; furthermore, the resource bundle can be updated without rebuilding the software accessing it.

Abstract: A graphical user interface allows a user to easily input a character via a small-sized display screen without having to use a keyboard, wherein first and second page bars are displayed in a page bar display area, and a first and second display windows are displayed on the first and second page bars, respectively. The positions of the first and second display windows on the first and second page bars are changed in response to an inputting operation performed by a user. Characters displayed in the respective first and second display windows are determined in accordance with the positions of the first and second display windows. Forward retrieval is performed in accordance with the characters displayed, and retrieved data is displayed in an entry display area and a main body display area.

Abstract: A three-dimensional (3D) view of a data collection based on an attribute is disclosed. A timeline is provided for displaying files and folders. The timeline may include a focal group that displays detailed information about its contents to the user. Remaining items on the timeline are displayed in less detail and may be positioned to appear further away from the user. A histogram may be provided as part of the view to allow the user to more easily navigate the timeline to find a desired file or folder.

Abstract: The present invention provides launch pads on the display of a computer system as interactive interfaces between a user and wizards. The present invention includes: (a) providing a link on a launch pad, where the link is associated with a wizard, where the launch pad comprises a first visual object, where the first visual object in the launch pad relates to the task performed by the wizard; and providing the wizard when the link is selected, where the wizard comprises a second visual object, where the second visual object is associated with the first visual object. In the preferred embodiment, the second visual object in the wizard provides more information concerning the task than the first visual object. In this manner, a user is provided a visual connection between the information provided on the launch pad and the information provided on the wizard concerning the task performed by the wizard.

Abstract: A novel graphical user interface (GUI) using metadata, generates three-dimensional scatter plots (100, 200, 300, 400) for the efficient and aesthetic navigation and retrieval of pictures in a picture database. The first and second dimensions (102, 104, 202, 204, 302, 304, 402, 404) represent abscissas and ordinates corresponding to two picture characteristics chosen by the user. Distinguishing characteristics of icons (108-126, 208-230, 308-326, 408-430) in the scatter plot (100, 200, 300, 400), which icons represent groups of pictures, indicate the third dimension, also chosen by the user. In the preferred embodiment, the third dimension is indicated by the color of the icon (108-126, 208-230, 308-326, 408-430). Along with many other possibilities, the three dimensions of a scatter plot (100, 200, 300, 400) can represent combinations of “Who,” “What,” “When,” “Where,” and “Why” picture characteristic information contained in the picture metadata.

Abstract: A direction indicator for navigating within a web site is installed relative to a link shown on a web page within the web site. The direction indicator is surfaced prior to selection of the link in order to inform the user whether the link will take the user forward or backward within the web site. The direction indicator may comprise an arrow. The arrow points upward to indicate movement backward within the web site, and the arrow points downward to indicate movement forward within the web site. The direction indicator may be surfaced by hovering a pointing device over the link.

Abstract: A method for providing help services in a graphical user interface-based computer application includes providing a first display portion and a second display portion. The first display portion provides standard application services and the second display portion provides dedicated help services based on the standard application services provided in the first display portion. The method also includes determining a user interaction via the first display portion, and, based on the user interaction, providing a standard application service associated with the computer application in the first display portion. Furthermore, the method includes providing dedicated help services in the second display portion based on the standard application service provided in the first display portion.

Abstract: A method for displaying literary and/or linguistic information about a “lookup” word/phrase from an information set is provided. The information set is comprised of one or more node link structures. Each node link structure is comprised of a plurality of related nodes. Each node contains information and relationships between nodes provide information about words/phrases. A display system receives a request for information about a “lookup” word/phrase (1). A node link structure is selected and retrieved (2). Hierarchical addresses are assigned to each node, representing a tree structure (4). Display addresses are assigned to each node based on a surface function (e.g., hyperbolic function), representing a mapping of the tree structure to a surface shape corresponding to the surface function (6). The tree structure is rendered to the display. The display simultaneously provides detailed information about the “lookup” word/phrase and its context within the associated node link structure.

Abstract: A method, apparatus, and computer instructions for providing user support. In response to receiving a request of real-time user support from a user, the request is placed in a service queue for processing. Prior actions taken by the user are identified. Access is selectively provided to an intelligent help agent while the request is in the queue.