USER INTERFACE

The user interface is based on the look-and-feel of standard office productivity software such as Access or Outlook. A lot of effort has gone into facilitating fast data entry and viewing by capitalizing on productivity features supported by web browsers. The screens include an online help button that displays a page with a short description of all functions for that page. The interface can be simplified for novice or occasional users by turning off fields or functions.

Interactivity: Due to the comprehensive security model a lot of security checks at various levels have to be performed. By using advanced memory caching techniques the system has a typical response time of less than a second per page.

Graphics design: The interface has a consistent design with a top menu, side menu and functions on the top of each page. Although the application runs in a web browser the graphics design of folder trees, calendars and screens is very similar to office applications.

Online help: The system supports a context sensitive online help which can be invoked from each screen. The user will see a help page with a short description of the page and an explanation of all functions. Only functions for which the user has access will be displayed in the help text.

Tooltips: A short tooltip help text is displayed when the user moves the cursor over an icon. The tooltip text will be displayed in the local language of the user.

Tab order: When a screen is loaded the cursor is automatically positioned in the first data field. When pressing the tab key the cursor moves to the next field. Pressing the Enter or Esc key returns to the previous screen. This enables fast data entry without having to use a mouse.

No popups: Sometimes you need to pick one or more items from a list or calendar. Instead of using popups the system will show the screen in the same window. This approach ensures that users that have installed a popup blocker can still use the system.

Translations: Field labels, function names, enumeration values, help texts and tooltips are dynamically translated. System managers can add new translations to the system via the web browser. Translation can also be turned on for the actual names of folders or objects.

Breadcrumb trail: A so called breadcrumb trail showing the previous pages is displayed at the bottom of the screen. This helps users to understand where they are. When you click on the trail the system will jumb back to the corresponding page.

Back button: All pages have a back button to prevent that the user gets lost or needs to start all over again.