Abstract: Objects on a data processing system are provided to a multimedia presentation device for presentation purposes. Each object is provided with one or more attributes. These attributes are registered before the presentation. When an object is selected for presentation, the object is transformed into a presentable format in accordance with its attributes. Such attributes include whether the object is restricted for display, the particular presentation device or devices that will present the object, the types of transforms to be performed on the object to ready the object for presentation, whether the object should be segmented into plural segments and if so, then the manner in which the segments are presented. After the transformation, the object is provided to the appropriate presentation device.

Abstract: In a multi-windowed environment, a direct manipulation technique adds the ability to add and delete source objects and target objects to a direct manipulation list. After the direct manipulation operation has begun, a group object is formed. The group object may be positioned proximate without being dropped or released another object which may be a source or a target object. Upon passage of a pre-determined period of time, a menu will open allowing selection of an appropriate option to add to or delete from the group object.

Abstract: A user can directly manipulate objects on a data processing system user interface by dragging a source object and then dropping the source object onto the target. Dropping the source object onto a target performs an action. The action is performed in accordance with parameters. The parameters have defaults. The user can override these defaults by positioning the source object on the target and delaying the drop of the source action. The source object is thus "hovered" over the target. After hovering for a predetermined amount of time, an indication of a successful hover is provided to the user. If the user then drops the source object onto the target, the user is prompted for new parameter values. Upon receiving the new parameter values, the action is then performed in accordance with the new values.

Abstract: A method is provided for introducing to a user a new/enhanced function of a computer software application. After learning the basics of a computer software application, new/enhanced functions are presented to the user based upon completion of predetermined criteria. The predetermined criteria may comprise the passage of time or the completion of a specified number of uses of a certain function.

Abstract: A method and system for efficiently managing a time critical response to a distribution within a data processing system. The amount of time required to present a distribution to a recipient is determined in response to a receipt of that distribution at the user's station. Next, a specified time for response, action date or invalidation date is determined and a latest possible presentation initiation time is calculated which permits completion of the presentation of the distribution prior to the specified time for response or invalidation. An audible and/or textual notification is then generated and presented to the user prior to the calculated latest possible presentation initiation time, such that the user may efficiently respond to the distribution prior to the specified time for response.

Abstract: A method of manipulating and obtaining access to graphical desktop objects is disclosed. Touch-sensitive fields are provided on a computer display for user selection. Upon selecting one of the fields with a fingertip, a fingerprint therefrom is analyzed and compared to a list of authorized fingerprints. Once the fingerprint passes inspection, the user is granted access to the underlying program.

Abstract: A method and system are disclosed for permitting automatic interaction between data and multiple applications in a data processing system. A selectable graphic representation associated with each application is displayed within the data processing system and after user selection of a particular graphic representation, designated data is automatically transferred to or utilized to access the associated application. A distinctive highlight overlay is associated with each graphic representation and utilized to graphically highlight data selected by user for interaction with a selected application. Alternately, data selected by a user may be utilized to automatically select a particular application to transfer that data to or for access and the distinctive highlight overlay associated with the particular application is then utilized to visually confirm access to that application.