Abstract: In a computer system having several application programs, wherein each application program is configured to manage at least one of several object types, a method of identifying objects includes receiving a first input that a user makes under guidance of an input control in a graphical user interface (GUI) to specify 1) a user-selected object type, 2) a user-selected attribute that is associated with the user-selected object type, and 3) a user-selected attribute value for the user-selected attribute. The method includes executing a search in the computer system for any objects corresponding to the first input. The method includes initiating a first application program that is configured to manage objects of the user-selected object type, wherein the first application program presents a result of the search in the GUI. The input control may remain visible with the application, for executing a new search for the same or another object type.

Abstract: An operating environment of a virtual machine running on virtualization software may be configured with a guest operating system and a prerequisite application, as required by the product application (e.g. the software product to be shipped). The product application may then be installed onto the guest operating system, and an image of the entire virtual machine, including the product application, may be captured. The product application may then be deployed (e.g. shipped) by providing the image to a plurality of end-user devices, wherein the virtual machine, including the product application in the operating environment of the virtual machine, may be implemented thereon.

Abstract: In a computer system having several application programs, wherein each application program is configured to manage at least one of several object types, a method of identifying objects includes receiving a first input that a user makes under guidance of an input control in a graphical user interface (GUI) to specify 1) a user-selected object type, 2) a user-selected attribute that is associated with the user-selected object type, and 3) a user-selected attribute value for the user-selected attribute. The method includes executing a search in the computer system for any objects corresponding to the first input. The method includes initiating a first application program that is configured to manage objects of the user-selected object type, wherein the first application program presents a result of the search in the GUI. The input control may remain visible with the application, for executing a new search for the same or another object type.