Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for navigation user interface mechanisms. According to one embodiment, a user interface mechanism enables period query generation. A period selection dialog configured to receive information indicative of multiple date groups to be compared is presented. The period selection dialog displays a graphical depiction of a calendar view from which the date groups may be selected. Information identifying one or more days representing a period associated with each date group is then received with reference to the graphical depiction. Each period is capable of being either asymmetrical or symmetrical with respect to the other periods to be compared. Finally, a query is generated to create a comparison among the date groups based upon the information identifying the period associated with each date group.

Abstract: Methods are provided for navigation user interface mechanisms. In one embodiment, a directed summary of (i) what caused the value of a selected cell within a tabular view of data; or (ii) context into which the value of the selected cell fits as part of a larger overall picture is provided by displaying at least a partial hierarchy of child/parent views relating to the value of the selected cell, then the end user may navigate to a particular level of detail within the hierarchy of preaggregated data that is desired by selecting an appropriate child/parent view. In another embodiment, period queries are specified with reference to a dialog displaying a calendar view from which date groups to be compared may be selected. The dialog receives information identifying a period associated with each date group to be compared. The periods can be either asymmetrical or symmetrical with respect to each other.