AU2015258212A1 - Delivery enablement workforce utilization tool integration - Google Patents

Abstract

A computer-implemented method, including obtaining work code mapping data that associates a predefined set of work codes with a predefined set of work code categories, the work code mapping data associating a particular work code with different work code categories for one or more of different clients, different sub-units of a particular client, or different workers associated with a same client, receiving, via a network interface, an on-line timesheet from a particular worker including a time entry for work performed by the particular worker, the time entry referencing at least a work code and a client or a sub-unit of the client, automatically determining, by a computer processor, the particular work code category that the work code mapping data associates with the work code referenced by the time entry, for any one or more of the client, or the sub-unit of the client referenced by the time entry, or the particular worker, and generating an invoice thereby causing the client referenced by the time entry to be billed according to the particular work code category for the work performed by the particular worker. r2 wE (DCD w2

Description

-2 DELIVERY ENABLEMENT WORKFORCE UTILIZATION TOOL INTEGRATION FIELD OF THE INVENTION This invention relates generally to a data entry process. More particularly, 5 the invention provides methods, apparatuses, and computer readable media for processing time entries for an account. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Business philosophy, according to prior art, emphasizes business independence, in which a business strives to provide needed goods and services 10 within the business itself. For example, a business may support its own education center to train its employees. However, this business philosophy is evolving, where a business is increasingly dependent on other businesses for goods and services. There are a multitude of reasons in the marketplace for this trend resulting from economic considerations and increased specialization. 15 In order to support an inter-business relationship, a supply company often provides goods or services to multiple businesses under different contractual obligations. For example, a supply company that provides services to different companies typically requires an effective time entry system to verify compliance to contractual obligations as well as for monitoring costs in providing services. The 20 time entry system should facilitate time entry by its employees while accurately recording and reporting time entries in accordance with specific business stipulations with the supported companies. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention provides methods, apparatuses, and computer 25 readable media for a data entry process that supports aggregating work entries for an account. In one aspect, the present invention provides a computer-implemented method, including obtaining work code mapping data that associates a predefined set of work codes with a predefined set of work code categories, the work code 30 mapping data associating a particular work code with different work code categories for any one or more different clients, different sub-units of a particular -3 client, or different workers associated with a same client, receiving, via a network interface, an on-line timesheet from a particular worker including a time entry for work performed by the particular worker, the time entry referencing at least a work code and a client or a sub-unit of the client, automatically determining, by a 5 computer processor, the particular work code category that the work code mapping data associates with the work code referenced by the time entry, for any one or more of the client, the sub-unit of the client referenced by the time entry, or the particular worker, and generating an invoice thereby causing the client referenced by the time entry to be billed according to the particular work code 10 category for the work performed by the particular worker. In another aspect, the present invention provides a system, including one or more devices that obtain work code mapping data that associates a predefined set of work codes with a predefined set of work code categories, the work code mapping data associating a particular work code with different work code 15 categories for any one or more of different clients, different sub-units of a particular client, or different workers associated with a same client, receive, via network interface, an on-line timesheet from a particular worker including a time entry for work performed by the particular worker, the time entry referencing at least a work code and a client or a sub-unit of the client, automatically determining 20 the particular work code category that the work code mapping data associates with the work code referenced by the time entry, for one or more of the client, the sub-unit of the client referenced by the time entry, or the particular worker, and generating an invoice thereby causing the client referenced by the time entry to be billed according to the particular work code category for the work performed by the 25 particular worker. In yet another aspect, the present invention provides a computer-readable medium storing instructions, the instructions including one or more instructions that, when executed by one or more processors of a device, cause the one or more processors to obtain work code mapping data that associates a predefined 30 set of work codes with a predefined set of work code categories, the work code mapping data associating a particular work code with different work code categories for any one or more of different clients, different sub-units of a particular client, or different workers associated with a same client, receive, via a network interface, an on-line timesheet from a particular worker including a time -3a entry for work performed by the particular worker, the time entry referencing at least a work code and a client or a sub-unit of the client, automatically determining the particular work code category that the work code mapping data associates with the work code referenced by the time entry, for any one or more of the client, 5 the sub-unit of the client referenced by the time entry, or the particular worker, and generating an invoice thereby causing the client referenced by the time entry to be billed according to the particular work code category for the work performed by the particular worker. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWNGS 10 The present invention is illustrated by way of example and not limited in the accompanying figures in which like reference numerals indicate similar elements and in which: Figure 1 shows a computer system used in an advanced payment integrity system in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 15 Figure 2 shows a screenshot in which queries are driven by tables where account guidelines are based on codes in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

-4 Figure 3 hows a screenshotin which all individuals ar mapped to a client and region where an individual is assigned a category for each code in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Figure 4 shows a screenshot in which spreadsheet files are linked to a database in 5 accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Figure 5 shows a screenshot in which data from a database is available for analysis in accordance wih an embodiment of the invenion. Figure 6 shows a screenshot in which a database has tables that directly link to spreadsheet files in accordance with an embodiment of the invention, to Figure 7 shows a screenshot in which pre-built queries sort, group, and analyze in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Figure 8 shows a screenshot in which reports and pivot table forms are available for review in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Figure 9 shows a screenshot in which pre-built reports are available to provide a detailed analysis by organization, client, individual, and month in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Figure 10 shows a screenshot in which reports available through a graphical user interface in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Figure 11 shows a screenshot with a pivot chart report in accordance with an 20 embodiment of the invention, igure 12 shows a process flow between different software applications in accordance with an embodiment ofthe invenion. Figure 13 shows a screenshot for collecting requirements via a spreadsheet template in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

Figure 14 shows a screenshot for building wokplans via Microsoft Prjec@l in accordance with arn embodiment of the invention. Figure sbowsa screenshot for setting etadata for Project ain accordance with an embodiment ofthe invention. $ Figure 16 shows a screenshot for assigning resources and publishing a workpha to a proect server in accordance with an embodiment of the invention Figure 17 shows a screensho for pro iding resource logs mo Intemet Expiore@ and accessing a imesheet in accordance with an embodiment of the invention, Figure .1 shows a screenshot fo entering updates and submitting for approval in 01 accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Figure 19 shows a screnshot when an administrator accepts updates i accrdance wih an mbodiment ohe invenion Figure 20 shows a screenshot for updates written to a project plan on a server in accordance with an embodiment of the invention, 15 Figure 21 shows a screenshot in which an Microsoft SQL On-Line Analytical Process g OLAP) CJbe build nightly incorporating any updates in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Figue 22 shows a screenshot in which spreadsheet licks to OLAP cube in accordance with an embodiment of the invention, 20 Figure 23 shows a sreenshotin which reeshed OLAP data beig rubbed and fratdper ma-cros in accordance with aebointof thie invsenloin, Figure 24 shows a screensho in wich a Microsoft AccessTM database synchronizing with scrubbed spreadsheet output in accordance with an embodiment of thie invention., -6 Figure 25 shows a screenshot in which imported data being analyzed using a series of building queries in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Figure 26 shows a screenshot in which queries That map individuals to clients as well as codes in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. S Figure 27 shows a screenshot in vhich each time period (noh) being analyzed by individual and category using SQL statement in accordance with an embodiment of the invention Figure 28 shows a screenshot an aggregation of results of categories in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 10 Figure 29 shows a screenshot in Which results of queries and category/code analysis available in pre-built reports aaccessed though a switchboard in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Figure 30 shows a screenshot in which each time period being broken down into individual, client and organization level results in accordance with an embodiment of the IS invention. Figure 31 shows a screenshot in which reports including category analysis and multiple category analysis (mirrored for client and organization) in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Figure 32 shows a screenshot in which macros being built to re-integrate 0 individual, client, and organization level category report results into pre-formatted spreadsheets in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Figure 33 shows a screenshot in which emplary exported spreadsheet results in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

Figue 34shows a screenshot in which results imported to a Microsofi Sharepoint@ site (fon built to match exported spreadsheet results) in accordance with an emubodiment of the invention. Figure 35 shows a screenshot in Which reports providing an analysisaas 5 individual ad acou n accordance with an embodiment ofnenenion, Figure 36 shows a computer system that generates an invoice from work entries in accordance with an embodiment of the inventon. DETAILED fWSCReTION OF EMBODIMENTS Elements of the present invention may be implemented with computer systems, 0 such as the system 100 shown in Figure 1. System 100 may execute a process (eg. process 1200) as shown in Figure 12) in accordance with aspects for the invention as Computer 100 includes a cenra processor 110, a system memory i12 and a system bus 114 that couples various system components including the system nemor, 1$5 12 to the central processor unit 1 10. System bus i 14 may be any of several types of bus structures including a memory bus or memory controller, a peripheral bus, and a local bus using any of a variety of bus architectures, The structure of system memory 112 is well known to those skilled in the art and may include a basic input/output system (OS) stored in a read only memory (ROMI) and one or more program modules such as 20 operating systems, applicaTion programs and program data stored in random acess memory (RAM) Computer I10 may also include a variety of interface units and drives or reading and writing data. in particular, compute; 100 includes a hard disk interface 16 and a removable memory interface 120 respectively coupling a hard disk drive 118 and a 2$ removable memory drive 122 to system bis 114. Examples of removable memory drives include magnetic disk drives and optical disk drives. The drives and their associated computer-readable media, such as a floppy disk 124 provide nonvoiatile storage of computer readable instructions, data structures, program modules and other data for computer 100. A single hard disk drive 118 and a single removable memory drive 122 are shown for illustration purposes only and with the understanding that computer 100 may include several of such drives, Furthermore, computer 100 may 5 include drives for interfacing with other types of computer readable media. A user can interact with computer 100 with a variety of input devices. Figure 1 shows a serial port interface 126 coupling a keyboard 128 and a pointing device 130 to system bus I 14. Pointing device 128 may be implemented with a mouse, track ball, pen device, or similar device. Of course one or more other input devices (not shown) such 10 as a joystick, game pad, satellite dish, scanner, touch sensitive screen or the like may be connected to computer 100. Computer 100 may include additional interfaces for connecting devices to system bus 114. Figure I shows a universal serial bus (USB) interface 132 coupling a video or digital camera 134 to system bus I 14, An IEEE 1394 interface 136 may be 1 used to couple additional devices to computer 100. Furthenore, interface 136 may configured to operate with particular manufacture interfaces such as FireWire developed by Apple Computer and i.Link developed by Sony. Input devices may also be coupled to system bus 114 through a parallel port, a game port, a PCI board or any other interface used to couple and input device to a computer, 20 Computer 100 also includes a video adapter 140 coupling a display device 142 to system bus 114. Display device 142 may include a cathode ray tube (CRT). liquid crystal display (LCD), field emission display (FED) plasma display or any other device that produces an image that is viewable by the user. Additional output devices, such as a printing device (not shown), may be connected to computer 100. 25 Sound can be recorded and reproduced with a microphone 144 and a speaker 166. A sound card 148 may be used to couple microphone 144 and speaker 146 to system bus 114. One skilled in the an will appreciate that the device connections shown in Figure 1 are for illustration purposes only and that several of the peripheral devices could be coupled to system bus 114 via alternative interfaces. For example, video -9 camera 134 could be connected to IEEE 1394 interface 136 and pointing dece 130 could be connected to USB interface 132. Computer 100 can operate in a networked environment using logical connections to one or more remote computers or other devices, such as a server. a router, a network 5 personal computer, a peer device or other common network node, a wireless telephone or wireless personal digital assistant. Computer 100 includes a network interface 150 that couples system bus 114 to a local area network (LAN) 152. Networking environments are commonplace in offices, enterprise-wide computer networks and home computer systems. 10 A wide area network (WAN) 154, such as the Intemet, can also be accessed by computer 100. Figure 1 shows a modem unit 156 connected to serial port interface 126 and to WAN 154. Modem unit 156 may be located within or extenal to computer 100 and may be any type of convetional modem such as a cable modem or a satellite modem. LAN 152 may also be used to connect to WAN 154. Figure I shows a router 1 158 that may connect LAN 152 to WAN 154 in a conventional manner. It will be appreciated that the network connections shown are exemplary and other ways of establishing a communications link between the computers can be used, The existence of any of various well-known protocols, such as TCP/IP, Frame Relay, Ethemet, FTP, HTTP and the like, is presumed, and computer 100 can be operated in a 20 client-server configuration to permit a user to retrieve web pages from a web-based server, Furthermore, any of various conventional web browsers can be used to display and manipulate data on web pages. The operation of computer 100 can be controlled by a variety of different program modules, Examples of program modules are routines, programs, objects, 25 components, data structures, etc, that perform particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types. The present invention may also be practiced with other computer system configurations, including hand-held devices, muultiprocessor systems, microprocessor-based or programmable consumer electronics, network PCS, minicomputers, mainframe computers, personal digital assistants and the ike.

-10 Furthermore, the invention may also be practiced in distributed computing envirmnents where tasks are performed by remote processing devices that are linked through a communications network In a distributed computing environment program modulesmnay be located in both local and remote memory storage devices. SFigure 2 shows screenshot 200 in which queries are driven by tables where account guidelines are based on codes in accordance with in embodiment of the inventon, Embodiments ofthe invention may leverage muliple applications to effectively capture, analyze, and report on a global workforce's effort and tme expenditures (n 10 addition to time tracking) A process may be internally administered to allno and for greater granularty of reporting and nimble updating With an exemplary embodiment, as disclosed herein, an end-to-end process (eg, process 1200 as shown in Figure 12) includes the following procedures. Each procedure indicates related steps that are included in process 1200. E$ Scoping workplan metadata (step 1205) Creating workplans in Microsoft Project@ tagged appropriately (steps 1201 and 1203 Workplans uploaded to Microsoft Project Web Access (P WA) platform (step 1207) 20 Workforce accesses Project based tinesheets using Microsoft Internet Explorer@ web browser and enters actual work experience (step 1209) Microsoft PWA data colected in Microsoft SQL database (steps 1211I 12 13 and 1215 ) On-Line Analytical Processing (OLAP) datacube collates entries from individual in report format (sIep 12) Local spreadsheet (eg Microsoft Exel@) queries OLAP database and ports data to local spreadsheet (step 1219) 5 Microsoft AceessTI database links to loal Excel file using intemal refresh and uses data table (steps 1221 wand 1223) Multiple data tables in Microsoft Access database allow the administrator to modify resource (and account level) characteristics (client paid for activity, load activity, tracking activity, etc.) and categories (step 1225) 10 Queries combine and aggregate data tables into cohesive reports(organization level data) (step 1227) Aggregated reports output into Microsoft Excel format (step 1229) Excel reports are uploaded to pre-built Microsoft SharePoint® form (step 1231) Microsoft SharePoint form available to select groups based on organization level 15 taxonomy structure created using Microsoft Exchange functionality (step 1233) Final output from data analysis available in Microsoft PowerPointT format (charts, etc.) on a monthly (and ad hoc) basis (step 1235) At each interface between applications, administrative controls are provided, including metadata, OLAP refreshes, Excel formatting, Access table structure and 20 queries, Access to Excel reports, and custom (user driven) reporting on SharePoint, The tools use business rules to validate and report data, mitigating the potential for human eror (and interference) in the reporting process. For example, when a new workplan is created, the metadata for that plan may be driven from an administratively maintained list. Furthermore, the Access database synchronizes the data tables with the resources - 12 created on the Project Server. When new individuals are added to the system, they are recognized as "unmatched" and flagged for client and categorization against the various workplans. By mapping work codes to the appropriate category, a client may be more 5 accurately billed for a workplan in accordance with contractual obligations. In addition, a work efficiency for worker delivery services to the client may be measured. For example, the percentage of time that is billable to the client to the total time expended by each worker may be gauged. Consequently, corrective action may be taken for workers that do not achieve targeted goals. 10 Referring to the example shown in Figure 2, each work code (IASTOIdZNSTO2, JNST3D, and OnTlatform) is mapped into one of five categories by account, here "A" denotes "Client Paid" "B" denotes "Client Non-Paid" "C" denotes "Load WBS Activity" -- Work breakdown structure (WBS) 1$ codes are alphanumeric codes that identify each task's unique place in the outline structure of a project. They can be used for reporting schedules and tracking costs. WBS may refer to the code hours that are assigned to.) T" denotes scellneous Activity non delivery client WB3SV' "E" denotes TWA (Project Web Acces)-only tracked activity" 20 Work codes (shown as codes in Figure 2) are typically associated with different work activities. For example, JNS'01 coresponds to paid time off (PT), INSTI0 corresponds to class setup, and INST24 corresponds to instructing a class, On .PkafiorM corresponds to the time an instructor is teaching a class. Work codes arc mapped to different categories based on the client. For example, entry 201 corresponds to work 25 code 1NST70 and is client paid (category A) for client 1, 2, and N but not for client 3 (corresponding to category B). Differences in categories may be due to different factors such as conditions specified in a contract and so forth, Embodiments of the invention - 13 can support different work codes and different categories that may vary fromaccoutto account. With embodiments of the invention, the mapping of work codes to categories can dynamically change. For example, referring to entry 201, work code INSTL0 maps to 5 category A (ciem paid for activity) for client 1, However, a contract with client I may be re-negotiated so that work associated with INSTI0 is not client paid after an effective date. In such a situation, time entries after the effective date can be processed in accordance with the new mapping, An account may correspond to a set of business stipulations that Is spcifed in a 10 contract with a cient. An account may further correspond to different organizations of the client, Including different client regions. While Figure 2 exemplifies an embodiment associated with a training environments, embodiments of the invention support different environments, including product development (software and/or hardware), services (e'g, consulting, legal, and 15 accounting), and manufacturing. Figure 3 shows screenshot 300 in which all individuals (workers) are mapped to a client and region (corresponding to an account) where an individual is assigned a category for each work code in accordance with an embodiment of the invention, Each worker may be mapped to a client and client region. For example, entry 301 shows a 20 worker (Individual 5) that is associated with client 2 for the CALA region. Moreover, for each worker, each work code is categorized in one of five categories. While screenshot 300 maps a worker to a single account, embodiments of the invention allow a single user profile to be associated with more than one account, Also, different workers associated with the same account can have different categorizations for 25 the same work code. Figure 4 shows screenshot 400 in which spreadsheet files are linked to a database in accordance with an embodiment of the invemion. With an embodiment of the - 14 invention, standalone spreadsheet files are linked to a PWA database, where an Excel file may be locally saved per month, per year-to-date (YTD), and per compliance, Figure 5 shows screenshot 500 in which data from a database is available for analysis in accordance with an embodiment of the invention, Screenshot 500 shows a 5 spreadsheet with monthly time entries for different workers (individuals), With an embodiment of the invention, a worker submits an on-line timesheet, eg as shown in For example, work (time) entry 501 is associated with a worker (individual 3) who charges 138 hours to work code on-plarforrn, 16 hours to work code INST02, 4 hours to work code INST02, 3 hours to work code INST03, and 9 hours to work code INST10, 10 Referring to entry 303 as shown in screenshot 300, the worker is associated to client I and consequently work code On-Platform is mapped to category A, work code LVST02 is mapped to category F, and work code INST!0 is mapped to category A. Referring to Figures 10 and 11, computer 1 00 may utilize rules, (e.g., as specified by screenshots 200 and 300) to generate reports for differem clients and 15 different workers. For example, as disclosed herein, a work efficiency for each worker may be determined. As another example, charged time (eg., category A as shown in Figure 1l) may be determined as a percentage of the total time for an account. Referring to Figure 36, computer 100 may utilize rules to generate invoices (bills) for accounts. Work entries for workers associated with an account are processed 20 in which work (time) that is client paid is determined, For example, referencing screenshot 200, work that is associated with category A is billable to a client. However, different work codes may map to different categories in accordance with contractual obligations for different clients. With an embodiment of the invemtion, linked spreadsheet files may be refreshed 25 locally and macros may clean and format the linked data. The scrubbed data is directed to a PWA database, which is then available for categorization, analysis, and aggregation. Figure 6 shows screenshot 600 in which a database has tables that directly link to spreadsheet files in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

figure 7 shows screenshot 700 in which pre-built series sort gro and analyze source data in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Figure *S shows sreenshot 800 in which reports and pivot table forms are available for eview in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. As appreciated by onekied in the art, a pivot table s aMicrosof Excel nature ,hat aows access o data that organized into dimensions and measures It acts as an OLAP dien to allow users to interact with data stored in OLAP cubs using an Excel spreadsheet format. Figure 9 shows screenshot 900 in which pre-built reports are available to provide a detailed analysis by organization, cient, individual, and month in accordance with an 10 embodiment of the invenon. Figure 10 shows screnshot 1000 in which reports available through a graphical user interface in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. As shown in entry 1001. a worker (resource 2)., who is assigned to an account (Client 1 and Cientegion 1), has charged 56 hours that are mapped to category A and 40 hours that are mapped to 15 category B, Consequently, an efficiency measure of the worker can be determined. For example. the efficiency may be specified as AAA+B), which is equal to 5 8.33%. Figure 11 shows screenshot I 100 with a pivot chart report in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Screenshot I100 shows a breakdown of all hours charged for categories A, B, C, and D corresponding to regions 1101, 1103, 1105, and 1107, 20 respectively. Screenshot 1100 may further provide a summary that indicates the efficiency of the organization. For example, an organization may set an objective that at least 60% of charged hours correspond to client paid time.- If the actual time is less, the organization may decide to improve the efficiency of its workers or to re-negotiate the contract with the client 25 Figure 12 shows process flow 1200 between different software applications in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. The association with different screenshots is indicated with the different steps of process 1200.

-16 In step 1201, an organization collects requirements in accordance with a spreadsheet template as exemplified by screenshot 1300 in Figure 13. As appreciated by one skilled in the art, a spreadsheet file may be provided by Microsoft Excel@, which is a prorlietav 5s-padsheet application written and distributed by Microsoft Corporation 5 for Microsoft Windows@ and Mac OS X, It features calculation, graphing tools, and pivot tables. An organization then builds a workplan in step 1203 (corresponding to Figure 14). With an embodiment of the invenion, work ans are built with Microsoft Project. Microsoft Project is a proeiet management software program developed and 10 sold by Microsoft Corporation that is designed to assist pyjoecnnagers in developing pjans, assigning resgrg to tks tracking progress, managing hudge and analyzing workloads. Microsoft Project's capabilities ar extended wih te MiersofOfi Project Server and Microsoft Project Web Access. Project Server can store Project data in a central SQL-based databasealowing users to display and update this data over the 15 Internet. Web Access allows authorized users to access a Project Server database across the Internet and includesinesheets, graphical analysis of resource workloads, and administrative tools. Microsoft Office ProjectServer 2007 may be tightly integrated with WIdowS SharPoji Serices, for each project is created in Project Workspace where the team members can share information related to Project. 20 Metadata (e~g, specifying the work codes) is then set for the workplan in step 1205 as exemplified by screenshot 1500 in Figure 15. Additional metadata may include contract information, fiscal year, specific reporting area (scheduling vs, instructors), delivery region, and INST codes,. In step 1207 (corresponding to Figure 16), workers (resources) are assigned to the workplan, and the workplan is published to a project 25 server (e.g., a Microsoft PWA platform). Workers enter work entries (timesheets) to charge time for actual work experience is typically entered through an on-line entry system, e,g., Microsoft Internet Explorer@ web browser in step 1209 (corresponding to Figure 17). In step 1211 (corresponding to Figure 18), the time entries are updated and submitted for approval, 30 An administrator can then accept the submitted entries in step 1213 (corresponding to 17 Figure 19).The approved entries are then winen toa server in step 121$(corresponding to Figure 201,kwhee data nay be collected in a Microsof, SQL database in step 1217 (carmponding to Figure 2) an OnLine Analytical Processing (OLAP) datacube coates entie frm ndividudl in repotrmat As appreciated by onme skd inthe at, an A cube is a data stucture thatcan alow fast analysis or data The teml cubcomes nom the geonetric object that has three dimensions. However. OLAP cubes can have many mTore diensions than three, but the term continues toappl Data anas can occur in more than three dimnensions (referred as a hyercube). For example, data may be analyzed using any of the following combinatiOn: time. account work code, individua, instructor b r it and category. This hypercube approach often allows tor more accurate and customizable data analysis. The arrangement of data into cubes may overcome a limitation of relationaldaases. An OLAP cube is a specially designed database that is optimized for reporting. While most databases for online transaction processing are often designed 5 for efficiency in data storage, OLAP cubes are typically designed for efciency in data retrieval. This means that the data is stored in such a way as to make it easy and efficient for reporting. Typical relatial l databases treat all data into the database similarly, However, OLAP cubes categorize data into "dimensions and measures" . Measures represent items that are counted, summarized or aggregated, such as costs or 20 units of service, Dimensions are variables by which measures are summarized This organization of data can faeditate the abiity to fornuate daa requests, 1 n addition, many of queries that could be posed to the data are pre-aggregated in the database such that the answers have already been pre-calculated and can be reported without substantial delay, 2$ In step 1219 (corresponding to Figure 221 a spreadsheet file is linked to the OL A P cube A local spreadsheet queries the OLAP cube (database) and ports data to local spreadsheet In step 1221 (corresponding to Figure 23), OLAP data is scrubbed and formatted in accordance with macros. In step 1223 (corresponding to Figure 24), a database synchronizes the scrubbed spreadsheet output With an embodiment of the 30 invention, a Microsoft AccessM database links to a local Excel file using imernal reesh ad uses data as abie In step 1225 (corresponding to Figures 25, 2, 3, 26, 27, and 28), the data in the database is categorized, analyzed, and aggregated. With an embodiment of the invention, multiple data tables in the Microsoft Access database allow the administrator to modify resource (and account level) characteristics (client paid for activity. Moad activity, 5 tracking activity, etc.) and categories. In step 1227 (corresponding to Figures 29-32) queries combine and aggregate data tables into cohesive reports (organization level data) and are exported as spreadsheet results in step 1229 (corresponding to Figure 33). In step 1231 (corresponding to Figure 34), spreadsheet reports are uploaded to 10 pre-built Microsoft SharePoint@ forms. As appreciated by one skilled in the art, Microsoft SharePoint is a browser-based collaboration and document management plauorm from Microsoft Corporation. it can be used to host web sites that access shared workspaces and documents, as well as specialized applications like wikis and blois from a browser. The Microsoft SharePoint form is available to select groups based on 15 organization level taxonomy structure created using Microsoft Exchange functionality. In step 1235 (corresponding to Figure 35), final output from data analysis is available in Microsoft PowerPoint@ format on a periodic (e.g. monthly) and ad hoc basis. The reports can provide an analysis across workers and accounts. Figures 13-35 show additional screenshots in accordance with aspects of the 20 in-vention. Figure 13 shows screenshot 1300 for collecting requirements via a spreadsheet template in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Figure 14 shows screenshot 1400 for building workplans via Microsoft Project@ in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 25 Figure 15 shows screenshot 1500 for setting rietadata for Project Plan in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

-19 Figure shows screenshot 1600 for assigning resources and publishing a workplan to a project server In accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Figure 17 shows screenshot 1700 for providing resource logs into Internet Explorer and accessing a timesheet in accordance with an embodiment of the invention, 5 Figure 18 shows screenshot 1900 for enterng updates and submitting for approval in accordance with an embodiment of be inventioM Figure 19 shows screenshot 1900 when an administrator accepts updates in accordance with an embodiment of the inventmio Figure 20 shows screenshot 2000 for updates written to a project plan on a server 0 accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Figure 21 shows screenshot 2100 in which a Microsoft SQL OLAP Cube build nightly incorporating any updates in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Figure 22 shows screenshot 2200 in which a spreadsheet file links to OLAP cube in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Figure 23 shows screenshot 2300 in which refreshed OLAP data being scrubbed and formatted per rmacros in accordance with an embodiment of the invention, Figure 24 shows screenshot 2400 in which a Microsoft Access database synchronizing with a scrubbed spreadsheet output in accordance with an embodiment of the invendon. 20 Figure 25 shows screenshots 2500 in which imported data being analyzed using a series of building queries in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Figure 26 shows screenshot 2600 in which queries that map individuals to clients as well as codes in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

Figure 27 shows screenshot 2700 in which each fire period (month) being analyzed by individual and category using SQL statement in accordance with an embodiment of the invenDon; Figure 28 shov screenshol 2800 an aggregation of results of categories in 5 accordance with an embodiment of the invention Figure 29 shows screenshot 2900 in which results of queries and category/code analysis available in pre-built reports accessed through a switchboard in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Figure 30 shows screenshot 3000 in which each time period being broken dowan 10 into individual, client and organization level results in accordance with an embodiment of the invention, Figure 3] shows screenshot 3100 In which reports including category analysis and multiple category analysis mirroredd for client and organization) in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. 5 Figure 32 shows screenshot 3200 in which macros being built to re-integrate individual, client, and organization level category report results into pre-formatted spreadsheets in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Figure 33 shows screenshot 3300 in which exemplary exported spreadsheet results in accordance with an embodiment of the invention, 20 Figure 34 shows screenshot 3400 in which results imported to a Microsoft Sharepoint site (form built to match exported spreadsheet results) in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Figure 35 shows screenshot 3500 in which reports providing an analysis across individual and account in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

Figure 36 shows computer system 3600 that generates an invoice from work entries in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Workers may enter work entries to computer 3607 through computers 3601, 3603, and 3605 and network 3609. Computer 3607 uses rules (e.g., as specified from screenshots 200 and 300 as shown in 5 Figures 2 and 3, respectively) to process work entries that are associated with the corresponding account to determine work that is client paid (e.g, category A as illustrated with Figure 2). An invoice (bill), e.g, invoice 3651 or invoice 3653, is generated for the account, in which the client is billed only for work that is client paid. The napping between work codes and categories may vary for different accounts 10 as a result of different contractual obligations. Consequently, computer 3607 may use different rules for different accounts when generating invoices 3651 and 3653. As can be appreciate by one skilled in the art, a computer system with an associated computer-readable medium containing instructions for controlling the computer syste may be utilized to implement the exemplary embodiments that are 15S disclosed herein. The computer system may include at east one computer Such as a microprocessor, a Cluster of microprocessors, a mainframe, and networked workstations. While the invention has bee n described with respect to specific examples including presentl preferred modes of carrying out the invention, those skilled in the art wvi] appreciate that there are numerous variatons and permutations of the above 20 described systems and techniques that fall within the spirit and scope ofthe inventionas set forth in the appended Claims. Throughout this specification and the claims which follow, unless the context requires otherwise, the word "comprise", and variations such as "comprises" and "comprising"X will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or step or 25 group of integers or steps but not the exclusion of any other integer or step or group of integers or steps.

-22 The reference to any prior art in this speiatin is riot, and should lot be taken as. an acknowledgement or anyfn or suggestionthatth prior art forms part of the common gienrl knowIedge in Austaia.

Claims (22)

1. A computer-implemented method, including: obtaining work code mapping data that associates a predefined set of work codes with a predefined set of work code categories, the work code mapping data associating a particular work code with different work code categories for one or more of different clients, different sub-units of a particular client, or different workers associated with a same client; receiving, via a network interface, an on-line timesheet from a particular worker including a time entry for work performed by the particular worker, the time entry referencing at least a work code and a client or a sub-unit of the client; automatically determining, by a computer processor, the particular work code category that the work code mapping data associates with the work code referenced by the time entry, for any one or more of the client, or the sub-unit of the client referenced by the time entry, or the particular worker; and generating an invoice thereby causing the client referenced by the time entry to be billed according to the particular work code category for the work performed by the particular worker.

2. A method according to claim 1, where the work code mapping data associates the particular work code with different work code categories, for different clients.

3. A method according to either claim 1 or claim 2, where the work code mapping data associates the particular work code with different work code categories, for different sub-units of the particular client.

4. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, where the work code mapping data associates the particular work code with different work code categories, for different workers associated with the same client.

5. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, further including: generating an efficiency report for the particular worker based at least on the particular work code category that the work code mapping data associates with the work code referenced by the time entry. -24

6. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, where determining the particular work code category includes: applying a rule to the work code to determine that the time entry is associated with a billable work code category.

7. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, where the time entry further references an amount of time.

8. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, further including: obtaining contract data associated with contracts with the different clients, and where obtaining the work code mapping data includes: generating the work code mapping data based at least on the contract data.

9. A system, including: one or more devices that: obtain work code mapping data that associates a predefined set of work codes with a predefined set of work code categories, the work code mapping data associating a particular work code with different work code categories for any one or more of different clients, different sub-units of a particular client, or for different workers associated with a same client; receive, via a network interface, an on-line timesheet from a particular worker including a time entry for work performed by the particular worker, the time entry referencing at least a work code and a client or a sub-unit of the client; automatically determining the particular work code category that the work code mapping data associates with the work code referenced by the time entry, for any one or more of the client, or the sub-unit of the client referenced by the time entry, or the particular worker; and generates an invoice thereby causing the client referenced by the time entry to be billed according to the particular work code category for the work performed by the particular worker.

10. A system according to claim 9, where the work code mapping data associates the particular work code with different work code categories, for different clients. -25

11. A system according to either claim 9 or claim 10, where the work code mapping data associates the particular work code with different work code categories, for different sub-units of the particular client.

12. A system according to any one of claims 9 to 11, where the work code mapping data associates the particular work code with different work code categories, for different workers associated with the same client.

13. A system according to any one of claims 9 to 12, where the one or more devices further: generate an efficiency report for the particular worker based at least on the particular work code category that the work code mapping data associates with the work code referenced by the time entry.

14. A system according to any one of claims 9 to 13, where, when determining the particular work code category, the one or more devices further: apply a rule to the work code to determine that the time entry is associated with a billable work code category.

15. A system according to any one of claims 9 to 14, where the time entry further references an amount of time.

16. A system according to any one of claims 9 to 15, where the one or more devices further: obtain contract data associated with contracts with the different clients; and when obtaining the work code mapping data, the one or more devices further: generate the work code mapping data based at least on the contract data.

17. A computer-readable medium storing instructions, the instructions including: one or more instructions that, when executed by one or more processors of a device, cause the one or more processors to: obtain work code mapping data that associates a predefined set of work codes with a predefined set of work code categories, -26 the work code mapping data associating a particular work code with different work code categories for any one or more different clients, different sub-units of a particular client, or different workers associated with a same client; receive, via a network interface, an on-line timesheet from a particular worker including a time entry for work performed by the particular worker, the time entry referencing at least a work code and a client or a sub-unit of the client; automatically determining the particular work code category that the work code mapping data associates with the work code referenced by the time entry, for any one or more of the client, the sub-unit of the client referenced by the time entry, or the particular worker; and generating an invoice thereby causing the client referenced by the time entry to be billed according to the particular work code category for the work performed by the particular worker.

18. A computer-readable medium according to claim 17, where the work code mapping data associates the particular work code with different work code categories, for any one or more different clients, different sub-units of the particular client, or different workers associated with the same client.

19. A computer-readable medium according to either claim 17 or claim 18, further including: one or more instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to: generate an efficiency report for the particular worker based at least on the particular work code category that the work code mapping data associates with the work code referenced by the time entry.

20. A computer-readable medium according to any one of claims 17 to 19, where the one or more instructions to determine the particular work code category further include: one or more instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to: apply a rule to the work code to determine that the time entry is associated with a billable work code category. -27

21. A computer-readable medium according to any one of claims 17 to 20, where the time entry further references an amount of time.

22. A computer-readable medium according to any one of claims 17 to 21, further including: one or more instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to: obtain contract data associated with contracts with the different clients, and the one or more instructions to obtain the work code mapping data further include: one or more instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to: generate the work code mapping data based at least on the contract data.