Abstract: A computer system user interface provides a document summary which allows the user to more easily identify the contents and subject matter of the document.

Abstract: An information access system stores items of information in an unstructured global database. When a user requests access to the system, the system delivers to that user an identification of only those items of information which are believed to be relevant to the user's interest. The determination as to the items of information that are relevant to a user is carried out by ranking each available item in accordance with any one or more techniques. In one approach, the content of each document is matched with an adaptive profile of a user's interest. In another approach, a feedback mechanism is provided to allow users to indicate their degree of interest in each item of information. These indications are used to determine whether other users, who have similar or dissimilar interests, will find a particular item to be relevant.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for formulating and responding to an inquiry through an interface which is topically organized. The dialogue system interface is comprised of various topical objects wherein each domain object has a set of object values. Selection of a desired object value of a domain object yields a set of potential inquiries, corresponding to the selected value, for selection. A selected inquiry is transmitted to an underlying system for formulation of a response. The formulated response of the underlying system is then transmitted to the user through the dialogue system interface. The dialogue system generates and displays further domain objects, object values, and inquiries that are logically anticipated from the selected inquiry.