Importance

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Abstract

An improved user interface and query method permits a computer user to quickly specify field names, operators, and desired values for a database query. One or more of the desired values can be specified as an 'ask me' value that will cause the user to be prompted (each time the query is to be executed) for a desired value prior to executing the query. A 'wizard-like' set of dialog boxes guides the user through prompts to supply values for all such 'ask me' values in a compound query. Rather than presenting the user with arcane logical operators and a formalistic query language, logical operators are converted into ordinary English phrases. The user can save the query for later re-use or modification. Another feature prompts the user with a constrained list of possible values that a field can assume, forcing the user to select from among the constrained values rather than requiring the entry of a discrete value. When the user specifies an 'ask me' value for one of these fields, the constrained list is presented to the user before the query is executed. The invention can be implemented as an ActiveX control that executes in a web browser on a client computer.

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First Claim