EP1502197A4

EP1502197A4 - Document management system

Info

Publication number: EP1502197A4
Application number: EP03726392A
Authority: EP
Inventors: George Koppich; Michael Yeung; Louis Ormond; Lenin Babu; Carl Byington; Harpreet Singh
Original assignee: Toshiba TEC Corp
Current assignee: Toshiba TEC Corp
Priority date: 2002-04-19
Filing date: 2003-04-21
Publication date: 2006-03-29
Also published as: AU2003228631A1; EP1502197A1; WO2003090096A1

Abstract

A method and system is provided for automating management of document data (112) in a document management system (104). The document data management automation system (102) suitably permits document management system users (104) to create and define rules for automated management of document data (112) in the document management system (102). The present invention is also directed to a method and system for capturing electronic documents to a preselected data storage area (110). The invention is further directed to a method and system for automatically performing preselected operations on electronic documents.

Description

DOCUMENT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

Background of the Invention

This invention is related to document management systems, and more particularly, to a rule-based automation system for a document management system. This invention also relates to a document management system to automate transferring a plurality of documents or related data. h addition, this invention is related to a document management system for automating selected operations to be performed on at least one document in a data storage area.

Because enterprises around the world are recognizing that information is the currency of their business, there is tremendous value in ensuring that all corporate information, whether in structured or unstructured formats is captured, managed, and put to work in a meaningful and efficient way. Document management and content management solutions help organizations maximize the use of their unstructured data, which in turn helps maximize the use of their corporate knowledge. Unstructured data is information stored in text files, emails, documents, multimedia, etc.

Document management systems provide organizations with an ability to create centralized repositories, or libraries, containing all of the unstructured data they generate. Powerful search and retrieval tools make this information easily available for use and collaboration across the entire enterprise. These tools often provide security and version control capabilities. However, storing and retrieving large numbers of paper documents has, in the past, been an onerous task. Present document management systems solve some of the problems faced by organizations that use a manual document filing system alongside an electronic document system. These systems provide a method for combining both computer-generated image documents and paper documents in a secure document storage and retrieval system.

Document management systems provide a means for freeing up storage space and reducing the costs of paper document copying and distribution. They often provide multiple methods of adding documents and indexing information to the document management system while facilitating easy revisions, creation of new versions, annotation, and document sharing. One of the most important aspects of document management systems is their ability to eliminate time-consuming physical searches for misfiled or lost documents. Some document management systems allow users to save various types of documents in a single location (i.e. related client emails and Word documents in the same folder). Furthermore, they provide companies with an ability to back up all essential business documents, both scanned and computer-generated, and may integrate optical character recognition ("OCR") technology so that full text searches may be performed on scanned documents.

In popular operating system ("OS") platforms (e.g., Microsoft Windows family), a user navigates the local file system using the integrated OS file management system (e.g., Windows Explorer). Through the use of this tool, documents can be manipulated in a variety of ways, e.g., moved, copied, and deleted. Many computer users have grown accustomed to using integrated file management systems, and are thus reluctant to switch to another file management tool to perform these operations. Document management systems from third-party vendors generally provide enhanced file management systems, in providing such enhanced file management systems, document management systems generally provide a separate user interface for invoking their enhanced functionality. It would be preferable if document management systems provided users with a convenient method of accessing their enhanced system functionality from within an existing integrated OS file manager such that users are not required to navigate another interface. hi addition, a benefit of document management systems is that they facilitate collaboration. One such method of facilitating collaboration is providing versioning control for documents managed by document management systems. Another such method is providing document distribution functionality so that one user can easily share documents with or send documents to other users, devices or systems. Unfortunately, the document distribution functionality of document management systems generally calls for a user to manually select an appropriate distribution function for each document in the document management system. It would be preferable, however, if document distribution functionality provided users with the ability to automate document management upon receipt of a document. It would also be preferable if document distribution functionality provided users with the ability to automate transferring a plurality of documents to a selected data storage area. It would further be document distribution functionality provided users with the ability for automating selected operations to be performed on a plurality of documents in a data storage area.

Summary of the Invention hi accordance with the present invention, there is provided a document management system with an improved document distribution functionality.

Further, in accordance with the present invention, there is provided a document management system which provides users with the ability to automate transferring a plurality of documents to at least one data storage area.

Further, in accordance with the present invention, there is provided a document management system which provides users with the ability for automating selected operations to be performed on at least one document in a data storage area.

Further, in accordance with the present invention, there is provided a method for processing documents managed by a network-based document management system. The method comprises the step of defining at least one rule for application to document data received by a document management system. The rule suitably comprises at least one condition based upon at least one property and at least one action. The method also comprises the step of examining document data received by a document management system. Further, the method comprises the steps of determining if the examined document data matches the at least one condition of the at least one rule, and applying the at least one action of the at least one rule to the document data.

Also, in accordance with the present invention, there is provided a system for managing documents. The system comprises a document management system for receiving routed document data from the at least one network device. The document management system suitably comprises computer-readable code for defining rules having an action and at least one condition based upon at least one property, computer-readable code for examining document data received by the document management system, computer-readable code for determining if the examined document data matches the at least one condition of the at least one rule, and computer-readable code for applying the at least one action of the at least one rule to the document data. Still further, in accordance with the present invention, there is provided a method for capturing electronic documents to a preselected data storage area comprising the steps of: selecting a data storage area adapted for storage of electronic documents; and receiving, into the selected data storage area, electronic data representative of a plurality of electronic documents from at least one of a plurality of associated document systems.

Still further, in accordance with the present invention, there is provided a system for capturing electronic documents to a preselected data storage area comprising: a memory adapted for defining therein a plurality of data storage areas, each of the data storage areas being adapted for storage of electronic documents; selection means adapted for selecting a designated data storage area from the plurality thereof; and means adapted for receiving, into the selected data storage area, electronic data representative of a plurality of electronic documents from at least one of a plurality of associated document systems.

Still further, in accordance with the present invention, there is provided a method for automatically performing preselected operations on electronic documents comprising the steps of: receiving at least one electronic document into a data storage area accessible by a plurality of users; associating at least one preselected operation with the data storage area, such that such preselected operation is perfonned automatically by any document received into the data storage area; and performing the preselected operation on each electronic document received into the data storage area.

Still further in accordance with the present invention, there is provided a system or automatically performing preselected operations on electronic documents comprising: a memory adapted for defining therein a plurality of data storage areas, each of the data storage areas being adapted for storage of electronic documents; means adapted for receiving at least one electronic document into a data storage area accessible by a plurality of users; means adapted for associating at least one preselected operation with the data storage area, such that such preselected operation is perfonned automatically by any document received into the data storage area; and means adapted for performing the preselected operation on each electronic document received into the data storage area.

Advantages of the document management system of the present invention, include, but are not limited to, an improved document distribution functionality, the ability to automate transferring a plurality of documents to at least one selected data storage area, and the ability to automate performing selected operations on at least one document in a data storage area. These and other advantages, aspects, and features will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art upon reading and understanding the specification.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Figure 1 illustrates an example of a network system for implementing the present invention;

Figure 2 illustrates a hierarchical tree structure of a repository in a document management system;

Figure 3 illustrates an overall block diagram of the subject invention for implementing rule-based document management;

Figure 4 illustrates an overall flowchart for implementing automation of distribution and management of documents according to the present invention;

Figures 5a and 5b illustrate an overall block diagram of the subject invention for automating transferring a plurality of documents to at least one data storage area; and

Figure 6 illustrates an overall block diagram of the subject invention for automating transferring a plurality of documents to at least one data storage area.

Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments

The document management system preferably provides access to a document management repository via a folder incorporated into the existing OS file structure. Although the present invention is described as enabling users to access document management functionality from a Microsoft Windows OS, it will be appreciated to those skilled in the art that the present invention is also suitably designed to interact with any OS, such as Unix, Linux, Macintosh or other OS. hi one embodiment, the document management platform ("DMP") provides access to network-based documents via a browser, such as Internet Explorer or Netscape.

In the presently preferred embodiment, a document repository managed by the DMP is represented as a folder within an Internet Explorer window. The DMP permits a user to perform at least the following operations on the repository folder, preferably insofar as the user has the appropriate access rights (these operations may be challenged via an account username/password request): expand the folder tree structure, view folder properties, delete a folder, rename the folder, copy the folder, move the folder, drag-and-drop a document, delete the document, rename the document, copy the document, move the document, view document properties, and view the document content as read-only. Additional document management functionality is suitably made available to the user, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art. When a document is moved or copied from one location to another within the DMP repository file structure, the document, as well as its meta data, are suitably "moved" or "copied". When a document is moved or copied to a location outside of the DMP repository, the document content, and not its meta data, is suitably moved or copied (this operation is functionally equivalent to a download operation).

Referring now to Figure 1, an illustration of a network environment for practicing the present invention is provided. The system comprises a data transport network 100 illustrative of a LAN or WAN environment in which a preferred embodiment is provided, such as a packet- switched TCP/IP -based global communication network. The network 500 is suitably any network and is preferably comprised of physical layers and transport layers, as illustrated by a myriad of conventional data transport mechanisms like Ethernet, Token-Ring™, 802.11(b), or other wire-based or wireless data communication mechanisms as will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art.

Connected to a data transport network 100 is a document management platform ("DMP") 102. In the presently preferred embodiment, the DMP preferably is a plug-n-play device having a hardware component consisting of a closed-box server that is easy to install, configure and support, and software components, both of which will be described in greater detail hereinbelow. The DMP is suitably operable to provide services to one or more computers 104, one or more DIDs 108, and/or one or more Servers 106 connected to network 100. It is suitably a document distribution solution with document management capabilities.

The DMP 102 suitably replaces or supplements existing fax, print and email servers, and preferably offers a more efficient method of transmitting, tracking and storing business-to- business documents. The DMP 102 is preferably a client/server system, which is suitably implemented in both single and collaborative corporate workgroups (although not limited to such environments) and designed to increase productivity and reduce costs by making document communications more simple and reliable. The DMP 102 suitably provides functionality enabling users to share documents and conduct collaborative work between various workgroups. For example, collaboration between sales and accounting can occur when issuing customer quotes, generating offers or approving a credit line, tracking job costs, and charging back users.

One example of enabling DMP functionality is the ability of the DMP 102 to transmit documents' that critically impact business operations. These critical documents can be from, but are not limited to, the following functional areas of a business: Sales, Accounting, Purchasing, Engineering, Warehouse, and Human Resources. All of these documents are representative of critical business processes. The DMP 102 preferably comprises a job routing component that allows a user to direct jobs to one or more Multifunction Peripheral devices ("MFP"), DIDs, or other LPD-compliant devices, to faxes, e-mail and web servers. An LPD-compliant device is a Network Print Server (i.e., Line Printer Daemon (or spool area handler)) that allows access to printers from a local computer across a TCP/IP network, e.g., the Internet.

Also connected to data transport network 100 is computer 104. The computer 104 is suitably either a server or client miming on any OS, such as Windows NT, Windows 2000, Windows XP, Unix, Linux, Macintosh or other operating system. In addition, the computer 104 is suitably a thick client or thin client, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art. For example, LAN environment, the DMP 102 provides services from a "thin" browser-based client. The disclosed DMP architecture is suitably accommodating for a "thick client" driver-based computer 104 and for a "thin client" browser-based computer 104.

Connected to data transport network 100 is also DID 108. The DID is suitably a device such as a printer, fax machine, scanner, copier, multi- function peripheral ("MFPs"), or other like peripheral devices. The DID 108 is suitably any networked DID as will be appreciated to one of ordinary skill in the art. The DID 108 preferably has an internal device controller suitably acting as a fully functional server with the necessary hardware and software that ensure proper operation of the DID 108 as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art. hi addition, the DID 108 preferably comprises internal storage, which is suitably a hard disk and random access memory ("RAM") as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art. Optionally, a server 106 is also connected to data transport network. Because both the DID and the DMP suitably have server functionality, an additional server is not necessary to practice the present invention. However, corporate networks rarely have only one server, and often have more than two servers, wherein the servers may be configured to perform different tasks. The server 106 is suitably any fully functional server with the necessary hardware and software to ensure proper operation. The server 106 is suitably a database server configured for selective query support, selective data access, data archiving, and like, an email server, an application server, or any server configured for performing a function across a network.

The DMP 102 preferably comprises a Document Distribution Module ("DDM") 114 a Document Management Module ("DMM") 116, and a Rule Module 110 ("RM"). It should be noted that that the DMP 102 is not limited to these particular modules, and suitably comprises additional modules for device management. The main function of the DMM 116 is to store documents in a central document repository and to facilitate user capability to modify documents, collaborate during document editing, and search and locate stored documents. The main function of the DDM 114 is to route jobs to their destinations such as DIDs, servers, computers, a document repository, etc. The main function of the RM 110 is to provide automation for the DDM 114 and DMM 116.

The DDM 114 interfaces with the DMM 116 to distribute documents in native file formats, or as image files, such as PDF, TIFF, JPEG, GIF, and the like. The DMP 102 also suitably comprises internal storage, in which a document repository is suitably maintained. The DMP 102 preferably interfaces with data transport network 100 via network interface 118. Thus, the DMP 102, server 106, computer 104 and DID 108 are in shared communication.

The computer 104 suitably represents either a thick client or and a thin client with general interfaces to the DMP 102. The computer 104 interfaces with the DDM 114 for document distribution to selected devices. The DDM 114 suitably reports back to the computer 104 the status of the documents forwarded to the DDM 114 for distribution. Documents received into the DDM 114 are preferably spooled within the DMP 102.

The DMP 102 preferably functions are a fully functional server in a client-server architecture and the computer 104 acts as a client. One of the primary functions of the DDM 114 is to route jobs to various destinations such that it interacts with virtually any type of client OS (e.g., Windows, Unix, Mac, Linux, etc.) without requiring a user to have special skills. As described hereinabove, there are two types of clients available: the thick client (i.e., operating through a printer driver), and the thin client (i.e., operating through a browser. After receiving jobs from a computer 104, the DDM 114 preferably routes the jobs to their final destination, which is suitably internal or external. Thus the DMP 102 becomes the focal point for monitoring and controlling delivery of jobs to their respective destinations. User at computers 104 can preferably create routing profiles, which simplifies the process of submitting multiple jobs to the same destination. Such destinations suitably include DIDs (network printers, fax, scanners), email servers, web servers, document repositories, etc.

To route a document via the thick client 104, a user preferably opens a document in its native application, and selects a File/Print menu. As a next step, the user selects a routing destination. For each selected routing destination, user suitably the following options: destination-type(s), specific destination(s), properties of the specific destination, or alternatively, to avoid navigating the property screens, select and load a previously-stored job delivery profile. The user can also store the current job profile.

A thin client computer 104 is suitably capable of sending documents to any of the destinations that are accessible via the thick client. One distinction between the interaction of a thin client with the DMP 102 and a thick client with the DMP 102 is when a document is delivered to its destination from a thick client it is delivered in a format different than the native document format. When a thin client delivers a document to a destination, it suitably arrives at its final destination in its native or original format.

As disclosed, the computer 104 communicates documents and files through the DDM 114 to several destination devices. The primary function of the DDM 114 is to send a document from the DMP 102 to a specified destination, which is accomplished in a succession of major functional steps. In a presently preferred embodiment, the DDM 114 comprises a spooler, a Job Manager ("JM"), a Messaging Server ("MS"), and a Document Queue Manager ("DQM"). A document from a computer 104 (a thin client or a thick client) is received into the DMP 102 at the spooler. As mentioned hereinabove, the thin client 104 is browser-based, thus the document is selected via a browser and suitably transmitted to the DMP 102 via a browser client (e.g., HTTP client software) to a spooler. A thick client is also suitably operable to send documents to a spooler utilizing conventional printer protocols (e.g., LPD for Unix, and SMB for Windows). The spooler, in turn, preferably sends a message to a JM to create a new job. A MS preferably provides messaging services between all of the components of the DDM 114. The JM suitably creates a job by passing a request to a DQM. The DQM creates a job record, and returns a job-ID to the JM and further, back to the spooler. The spooler passes the document to queues maintained by the DQM. Once the spooler finishes spooling the job, it sends a message via the MS to the JM.

For example, if the job type is a "web post" function, the JM notifies a corresponding converter of the arrival of a new job. A PDF converter suitably retrieves the document from the appropriate job queue, notifies the JM, and performs the corresponding conversion. Once the conversion is completed, the PDF converter suitably places the document back in the queue, and a notification is sent to the JM. Similarly, if the print job requires G3/G4 conversion, the job is suitably sent to a G3/G4/TIFF converter. Once converted, the G3/G4/ΗFF converter places the document back in the queue, and a notification is sent to the JM.

If a job is ready (i.e., spooled and/or converted), the JM sends a message to a Distribution Agent. The Distribution Agent retrieves the job from the queues 410, and sends it to the respective destination (e.g., Web, fax, printer, DMM, e-mail server, etc.). Once the JM completes processing a job, the event is suitably logged by a Log Manager ("LM") component.

The JM suitably maintains job information in the job record, which job record comprises the following fields: Job Name, Job Id, Job Owner, Department Name, Job State, Destination, Submission time, Start processing time, Completion time, Page count, Size. The JM does not send the job to the physical destination if the destination is not ready. For each destination type there is an agent program that is responsible for routing the job to its final destination. These individual agents (Print Agent, Mail Agent, Fax Agent, Web Post Agent, Scan Agent) are responsible for notifying the JM if the job was successfully delivered. As a result, the JM suitably provides a user with job status information, and notify the user if the job was successfully delivered or if error conditions were encountered. If errors are encountered, the respective agent retries to deliver the job. The job is discarded after a predetermined number of retries is exceeded. The JM saves the jobs received by the DMP 102 for a predetermined period of time. The DDM 114 suitably comprises a Print Agent ("PA") for delivering a document to a print destination or to the DMM 116. This is accomplished by examining the respective job record and identifying the destination name, destination type and or user name, which information is provided by the computer 104. If the destination type is for printing the job (i.e., in response to a "print" function), the PA suitably determines other details, such as queue name, and printer hostname/IP. If the destination type is stipulated as the document manager, the only information that needs to be provided by the computer 104 is the username. When a print destination is created, the attributes of the newly created destination are stored in a repository preferably housed on the storage 112 of DMP 102. Once the destination attributes are resolved, a destination router then suitably routes the respective job to its destination (e.g., "LPR"- an offline print command that associates a printer in the Unix OS, "smbspool" for SMB, DMM for the DMM 202, MAC for an Apple output device, etc.).

The DDM 114 also suitably comprises a Mail Agent ("MA") for mailing a document (in either native or image format) received at the DMP 102 via an on-board send mail server (similar to an internal SMTP server) or an externally configured SMTP mail server. The MA is also responsible for fetching incoming mail from an external POP3 (Point-of-Presence version 3) mail server. As soon as a user logs in to the network 100, the DMM module 116 preferably sends a message to the MA via a messaging server to register the user as a logged-in user, and to fetch any newly arrived mail. Newly retrieved mail is preferably stored in a user DMM inbox via the DMM 116. When the user logs out, the DMM 116 preferably sends a message to the MA via the a messaging server to de-register the respective user.

The DDM 114 suitably further comprises a Fax Agent ("FA") for faxing a document via the internal fax modem or via an external fax server, such as exist on DIDs. Incoming faxes are preferably sent from the FA to the DMM 116. All incoming faxes are distributed to a common fax inbox, from where the fax documents are automatically or manually moveable to a user inbox. Support for incoming faxes is provided for various vendor DIDs (with fax unit installed) and for an on-board fax modem. Outgoing faxes are sent from the FA to the internal fax modem for transmission therefrom. Support for the external fax server is achieved via the vendor provided fax driver. , The DDM 114 also comprises a Web Posting Agent ("WPA") for posting a document to a Web site. When a job is identified as a "Web Post", the DMM 116 sends the job to the WPA. The WPA in turn gets the address of the Web destination and sends the document, along with the document meta data, to the identified Web destination. The following components are preferably installed on the website hosting the Web postings: Web Server software, a Web Post Receiving Agent, a Web Post Repository Manager connected to a Web Post Repository for storing website information, and Presentation Scripts.

The Web Post Receiving Agent, at the posting destination, receives the document sent by the WPA and stores it in the file repository using a Web Post Repository Manager. The Web Post Repository Manager maintains the posted documents, as well as the corresponding meta data, in a Web Post Repository. The user posts a document by using the computer 104. If documents are submitted for posting via a thick client, the documents are converted to PDF format. On the other hand, if the documents are submitted via the browser-based thin client, the documents are posted in the source format. The Presentation Scripts, via the Repository Manager, suitably provide the user with access to the posted documents.

The DMP 102 creates a posting container or box for each user. The posting box is automatically created when a user first posts a document to the web. A user who accesses the posting box via a thin client is able to view either the list of all posted documents or a list of documents posted on the current day, current week, or current month. The user can also delete documents contained in his respective posting box or view the attributes of a posted document.

The DDM 114 also comprises a Scan Agent ("SA"), which is preferably a separate application configured to run a supported MFP device, or DID. A DID controller suitably controls onboard functions of the DID, including processing of documents into images (rasterizing). The rasterized image file is then stored by a DID controller in a scanned image folder. The SA suitably monitors the scanned image folder and, as soon as an image file is placed in the folder, the SA initiates a document transfer to the DMM 116. Based on the username provided by the SA, the DMM 114 stores the document in a user inbox folder, from which a user can then retrieve the document image for processing.

The DMM 116 work with the DDM 114 and its components to enables users to quickly store and retrieve documents from a central repository, which is preferably stored in storage 112 on the DMP 102, but is also suitably stored on any storage device in communication with data transport network 100. The repository allows a user to share documents and conduct collaborative work between various workgroups. Users of the DMP 102 preferably utilize a browser-based Graphical User Interface (GUI) from a computer 104 to access documents stored in a repository. The DMP 102 preferably offers support for conventional browsers, e.g., Microsoft Internet Explorer and Netscape Navigator, through an internal web server which is accessible from a thin client via a browser using the HTTP protocol. A WebDAV (Web Distributed Authoring and Versioning) client suitably communicates with the web server utilizing HTTP and WebDAV protocols. WebDAV is a two-way protocol designed to support editing of Web sites and handling of meta data.

When the DMM 116 receives a document in image form, such as it would from a fax or scanning device, it suitably routes the image to the repository for storage. The image can also be forwarded to the DDM 114 for further routing to an output device, e.g., a printer, hi addition, the image file is also suitably routed to other document management systems ("ODMP") of a remote appliance over the network, and preferably ODMA compliant. A document received via email device is suitably processed as text or an attachment to a message and forwarded to the DMM 116. Both an image and a processed email document can be routed to the printer, repository, and ODMP, and/or other output devices via the DDM 114.

As mentioned hereinabove, the DMM 116 has the main function of storing and organizing user documents. A user can send/file documents to the repository utilizing any of the following agents: for an incoming fax-DMM Fax Agent; for Print to DMM-DMM Print Agent; for an incoming email-DMM Mail Agent; and for scanned documents-DMM Scan Agent. Each agent is configured to transfer a document to the DMM 116, which stores and organizes the document accordingly. When the DMM 116 receives documents, it suitably stores them in personal storage, depending on the documents purpose.

Referring now to Figure 2, there is illustrated a hierarchical folder tree structure of a repository according to the present invention. The repository 200 is suitably comprised of a plurality of file folders. Users can browse through the repository 200 to access file folders and documents. Authorized users can create a hierarchical tree by creating new file folders and documents. Each file folder suitably contains both file subfolders and documents. A user is presented with file folders of two types: a private folder 202 and a group folder 204. The private folder 202 allows only the folder owner access this type of file folder. The folder owner has all rights on the objects contained in it. The private folder 202 is suitably created when an Administrator creates the user account. The group folder 204 is visible to users belonging to the group(s) assigned to this file folder. The operations that a user can perform on objects contained in the group folder 204 are limited to the access rights inherited from the respective group.

As long as a user has the proper access rights, he or she can perform a number of file folder operations. The user can create a file folder. An Administrator can create new folders in any section of the repository 200. Non-administrative users have this option available only if their access rights include editing on the file folder in which they want to create the new file folder. After selecting the menu option for creating a new file folder, the user is presented with an interface to specify the new name of the file folder. If the new name is not valid, the file folder will not be created and the user is notified with the proper error message. The user can also assign a comment, access rights to users and groups, and Indexes.

The user can view the properties of a file folder by selecting the respective folder from the repository 200. The following folder properties are suitably supported: access permission, attribute, available space, comment, last update, name, owner, creation date, size, and combinations thereof. It should be understood that other folder properties are also suitably included in the list of supported folder properties.

By selecting a file folder 202 or 204 from the repository 200, the user is suitably presented with a view of the folder's properties and an option to change the properties. Assuming the user has the proper rights, a user can delete a file folder 202 or 204, including any subfolders and files contained within the folder to be deleted. To delete the file folder, the user suitably selects the file folder 202 or 204 from the repository 200 and selects a Delete menu option. In addition, a user can browse a file folder by selecting the respective folder in the repository 200, an action that results in the display of the objects contained in the folder.

For searching purposes, the user can assign index information to newly created file folders. The index information that can be associated with a folder suitably includes: Department, Group, Language, Project, Purpose, Status, and Priority, etc. The user can display the index information associated with the file folder, and with sufficient rights, modify index values already associated with the file folder.

Users can also copy information from one file folder to another. After selecting the source file folder and the destination folder, the user can initiate a copy operation by selecting the Copy menu item. The user can copy a file folder only if the user has Edit access rights on the destination object. Similarly, after selecting the source file folder and the destination folder, the Move operation is initiated by selecting the Move menu. Preferably, the user can move a file folder only if the user has Edit access rights on both destination and source objects.

The user can also search a file folder. Numerous options are available to the user who wishes to perform a folder search. The user can specify the index information, attributes, or content data in combination with logical operators such as AND, NOT, OR, Not Equal, Max, Min, and is allowed to enter wild card characters for specific attributes. The user can specify the index information, attributes, or the content data, while using wild card characters for specific attributes. The user can limit the search to a specific file folder, a branch, or the entire hierarchy. The user has the option to save the search queries for use at a later time, and to retrieve the saved search queries for use. The search result depends on the above-specified criteria, and contains the list of file folders with some visible properties such as Name, Creation date, number of documents, etc.

The user can capture the document from a local drive or network hard drive utilizing an interface suitably implemented to allow the user to browse such devices and for selecting the document. This is also called an upload operation. The interface allows the user to then point the destination folder, and perfoπn, e.g., copy or move operations to place the file in the destination folder.

Also, the user can capture input/output from a scanner. The paper documents scanned by the user are converted to an image format and are stored in the user's personal storage, or Inbox folder. The user has an option of moving the document from his/her Inbox to a particular file folder in the repository.

Furthermore, the user can capture output from a fax. Paper documents faxed by the user are converted to an image format and stored in the user Inbox. The user then has an option of moving the document from the Inbox to a particular file folder in repository. Additionally, the user can capture from email as both text and an attachment. A document sent via email is stored in the user Inbox. The user has an option of moving the document from the Inbox to a particular file folder in the repository.

The user can capture files from servers disposed on the Internet. The GUI provides the capability of specifying the URL of the source document(s) and the destination file folder. The user can also specify how deep to traverse the URL. The DMP 102 then facilitates download of the specified documents for storage in the specified folder.

The user can also create new documents from current documents, and save the new documents a different format. The following format conversions are available to users: PDF, PNG, TIFF, HTML, BMP, JPG, etc. A new document can be created by merging several documents such that the final document is a multi-page image document). Using image files, a user has an additional option of rendering the image files to text through optical character recognition ("OCR") software.

After selecting the source document and the destination folder, a user can copy a document, but only if the user has edit access rights on the destination object. Likewise, a user can move a file folder, but only if the user has Edit access rights on both the destination object and the file folder containing the document.

If a user edits a document, he can save the edited document utilizing the following supported options. The document can be saved by replacing the original document with the edited version of the document by overwriting the original document. This operation does not create a new version of the document. The document can be saved along with its meta data to an attached storage device (e.g., hard disk). The user has two options for performing this operation. First, the user can select one or more documents from the repository 200, and then select a "Save" menu option. Second, the user can select the "Save" option from inside the document viewer to save the document to selected ones of destination storage devices attached to the DMP 102. The user can save the document to an external Electronic Document Management System ("EDMP") like Microsoft Share Point, Lotus Notes, TABS Top Access Composer, Questys, other online document management systems, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art. As described hereinabove, the user can perform this operation for either multiple documents or for a single document by opening it in the document viewer such that the external EDMP system can be specified. It is preferable that the external EDMP destination should be compliant with Open Document Management API ("ODMA").

Authorized users can perform the following operations support of document versions. A document can be checked out of the system, i.e., the latest version of a document can be retrieved for editing purpose. The user selects the document from the repository 200 and selects a "Checkout" menu option. After checking out the document, the user gets the latest version of the document (download) or simply checks out the document. In the later case, the document is not downloaded to the client machine. The check out operation marks the document as locked for the user who checked out the document. As long as the document is checked out, other users are not able to edit the same document. The user can view document status and properties. The status information is represented by visible properties including version tag, version comment, version date, and the name of the user who checked out the document.

Users can check-in a checked-out document such that the document is saved as a version of the original document. After making modifications to the local copy (retrieved via check-out operation) of the document, the users can then check-in the document. During the check-in operation, the user can either upload the local modified copy of the document or simply check in. In the first case, a new version of the document will be created by the DMM 116, with the currently uploaded version as the latest version of the document, hi the second case (i.e., check in), a new version is not created, but the status of the document is changed from "check out" to "check in", and the document will be unlocked for access by other users. The user also has an option of using WebDAN-enabled client applications to access documents stored in DMM 116.

Referring now to Figure 3, there is illustrated a flow chart of the process for moving a document according to the present invention. Flow commences at process block 302 where the user accesses the repository folder. If the user is not currently authorized to access the folder, the DMP 102 prompts a user to provide a username and password to again access. User rights to the folder are suitably assigned by an Administrator in accordance with the level of access provided to that particular user. For example, the user may be granted full access to his or her documents in private folders, yet restricted to a lesser read-only access to documents in the group folder. The Administrator can set the rights to any user, and to any document location. Note that the usemame/password login can be implemented as a single login coinciding with the network login, or as separate logins. Thus when the DMP 102 prompts the user for a usemame/password as a separate login procedure, flow progresses to decision block 306 wherein a determination is made whether the access code or login is valid.

A negative determination at decision block 306 means that the user entered invalid login information, which causes progress back to process block 304, where the user is again prompted to enter a valid access code or login.

A positive determination at decision block 306 means that the user entered a valid login, which causes progression to process block 310 wherein the user is provided access to the repository. The user is suitably granted access in accordance with the rights assigned by an Administrator and associated with the login information provided by the user.

Flow then continues to decision block 312 wherein a determination is made whether user wishes to move or copy a file from one location to another. A negative determination causes progression to flow back to process block 310 wherein the user maintains access to the repository.

A positive determination at decision block 312 means that the user is attempting to move or copy a file from the repository. At this point, progression flows to decision block 314 where a determination is made whether the destination of the file is within the DMM. A negative determination at decision block 314 means that the user is attempted to move or copy a file from the repository to a location outside of the repository. This causes progression to process block 316 wherein the DMM handles only the document content when moving or copying the file. This operation is equivalent to a document download operation. Flow then loops back to the input of decision block 310 wherein the user maintains access to the repository for the next document handling process.

A positive determination at decision block 318 means that the user is attempting to move or copy a document from a first location in the repository to a second location in the repository. This causes progression to process block 318 wherein the DMM handles both the document contents and meta data. Flow then continues to termination block 320. hi addition to moving and copying documents, the user is also provided with a mechanism for collecting user deleted files in a special holding area until the files have reached a predetermined age or, the storage area fills up and the files are discarded to create room for new files. The user can then monitor the status of the storage area and provide data such as space utilization. The user can monitor relevant activities and operations, and at a minimum, can record significant events, such as, document deletion, document check in and check out operations, document printing, login/logout activity, file storage space utilization, and archive/restore operations.

The user can specify the activities and operations to be monitored, and retrieve a record of these events by specifying a filtering criterion. The criterion includes the activity to be monitored, as wells as the monitoring period of time.

The user is provided with the capability to generate alerts for specific events such as New Document In personal storage (Inbox), Low File Storage Conditions, Failed Logon Attempts, Exceeding Threshold, etc. E-mail and/or Popup windows inform the user of these alerts. Authorized users can initiate printing of the documents stored in DMM repository.

For each account, the DMP 102 generates at least an Inbox and Private file drawer. These containers are visible and accessed through the browser interface of the DMM 116. The Inbox is the destination for all the documents arriving from outside at the DMM 116. A creator/owner of a DMM group file folder awards access rights to the respective folder by associating it with defined groups/users and access rights. The respective user selects a folder, and from the list of available groups/users, selects a particular group/user and then assigns the desired rights. If no explicit action is taken to assign rights to a container, then the rights are suitably inherited from the parent container (a folder inherits from its parent folder and a document from its parent folder).

The present invention provides users with a means for distributing documents to multiple destinations. Currently Windows applications send a document only to one destination device. To foreclose on such conventional limitations, the DDM 114 of the disclosed appliance architecture provides the capability of distributing a document substantially simultaneously to multiple destinations of different types including printers, faxes, web servers, and the repository via the DMM 116. On Windows platforms this is accomplished by a generic print driver which repeatedly invokes specific print drivers. The user is provided the capability to select one, a few, or all of the available destination types (i.e., Printer, E-mail, Web Post, Fax, DMM, etc.), and any number of devices within each device category. After a user selects one or multiple destinations, a dialog box is displayed that allows the selection of vendor-specific destination properties. The user is offered the opportunity to store all of these settings in a profile file that can be used to simplify subsequent "Print File" operations. Once these properties are set, the user exits these screens by selecting the "OK" button. In accordance with prior destination selections, the "Print File" operation is initiated by repeatedly invoking the corresponding print drivers.

As a prelude to initiating multiple-output-device printing, the user generates a document within an application (e.g., a Windows word processing application). When the user desires to output the document to multiple destinations, he or she directs the output to the disclosed DMP 102, preferably via a File-Print menu. When the destination devices have been selected, and the user initiates the document transfer, the document is sent to a component of the computer 104 OS for conversion. When using the Windows OS, the component is called the Graphic Device Interface ("GDI").

The GDI renders the image as an intermediary vector-based enhanced meta file ("EMF") and passes the corresponding data stream to the spooler, which preferably converts the EMF to a output file as a background operation, so the user can continue working on applications in the foreground. The spooler comprises the print processor that processes the received EMF file into multiple files according to the number of selected destination devices. For example, if the user selected as destination output devices a fax and a printer, the print processor suitably generates an output file for each output device. The spooler suitably receives an EMF file and passes it to a the print processor, which plays back the EMF file to each selected device.

In a presently preferred embodiment, a driver for selected device receives a played back file from the GDI module. A GDI rendering engine ("GRE") works with the drivers to generate the output file. The output from the each printer graphics DLLs is raw data to a port monitor. The port monitor routes the raw data via the kernel-mode driver stack to the DMP 102. The DMP 102 then distributes the respective document files to the multiple destination devices.

Note that the disclosed architecture is not restricted to wired networks having a client, the DSM 102, and numerous destination devices disposed thereon. The client may be any wireless portable device, such as a portable computer, ranning an OS suitably configured and operable to connect to a network access server to gain access to network services. The wireless device may also be hand-held device such as a Personal Data Assistant ranning any OS and suitably configured to communicate with the disclosed appliance system to receive the benefits thereof.

While the DMM 116 provides users with a simple interface for accessing document management functionality and the DDM 114 provides users with a means for concurrently distributing documents managed by the DMM 116 to multiple users and multiple devices, the present invention also provides a means for automating document management and document distribution. The DMM 116 suitably receives documents and stores them in a user's Inbox. The present provides functionality embodied in a Rules Module ("RM") that permits the owner of an Inbox (a user) to define conditions and rales for automated management and/or distribution of documents received at an Inbox based on a plurality of factors.

Turning now to Figure 4, there is illustrated a flow chart for invoking automation of distribution and management of documents according to the present invention. Flow commences at start block 400, from which progress is made to process block 402. At process block 402, at least one condition based on at least one property is defined. According to a presently preferred embodiment, the at least one condition based on the at least one property is defined through the implementation of computer-readable code, which is preferably stored anywhere on a data transport network, such as represented by data transport network 100, and is accessible to both a user, such as by way of a computer 104, and a DMP 102. The computer-readable code is suitably code in any language, is preferably compiled, and may be in the form of a software component. A software component ("SC") is suitably any piece of pre-written code that defines interfaces that can be called to provide the functionality that the component encapsulates. SCs are typically packaged in "industry standard" ways such that they are callable from multiple languages, or from multiple environments. The computer-readable code, in the case of SCs is suitably a unit of independent deployment that has no persistent state. As such, it provides seamless integration with existing development tools, such Forte for Java or Microsoft Visual Studio. SCs are suitably used out-of-the-box, or extended and specialized by developers as desired. It should be noted that the SCs of the present invention are suitably designed for any language binding, such as Common Object Request Broker Architecture ("CORBA"), .NET, COM, DCOM, C++, ActiveX, etc., as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art. The at least one property upon which the at least one condition is based is suitably related to document data received by the DMM 116. The document data property is suitably any of the following, or combinations thereof: annotation, application type, author, client, comment, creator, creation date, date completed, department, description, destination, document number, document type, group, language, manager, modified date, owner, priority, project, purpose, size, status, and version. hi addition, the at least one property is also suitably based on calendar information, such as the current date or time. Furthermore, the at least one property is suitably based on information related to a storage location in which the received document is to be stored (e.g. the DMM Inbox). For example, the property is suitably any of the following, or combinations thereof: access permission, attribute, available space, last update, name, owner, creation date, and size. Also, the attribute is suitably any of the following, or combinations thereof: compression attributes, read/write attributes, archive attributes, viewing attributes, renaming attributes, and deletion attributes.

F ow then continues to process block 404 wherein an action is selected, preferably by a user. The selection of an action is suitably implemented through the use of computer-readable code. The selected action suitably comprises any of the following, or combinations thereof: printing the document data, faxing the document data, emailing the document data, posting the document data to a web, storing the document data in a specified location, and generating a message. In other words, the action suitably involves invoking either of the DMM 116 or the DDM 114 to store, organize or distribute the document.

The combination of the at least one selected condition based on the at least one selected property with the at least one selected action suitably defines a rule.

Progression then continues to process block 406 wherein document data representative of a document is received at an Inbox, hi order for the document data to be received at the Inbox, it is suitably sent or routed from another device or location, either on the DMP 102, or on a device communicatively coupled to data transport network 100. For example, a user of a computer 104 creates a document in a software program, such as a word processing program, for storage in the repository by the DMM 116. The newly created document is then sent via the computer 104 and routed to the DMP 102. The specific document distribution functionality, such as distribution to an email server, printer, fax, etc., is described above. The rules suitably call the distribution functionality.

Flow continues to decision block 408 wherein a determination is made whether the at least one condition based on the at least one rale is satisfied. The RM suitably analyzes the selected property and compares it to a corresponding current system property, such as a property related to document data, a calendar property, or a property related to a storage space, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art. A negative determination at decision block 408 causes progression to flow back to process block 406, wherein the RM preferably analyzes the next document sent to the Inbox.

A positive determination at decision block 408 means that upon receipt of document data, a condition of at least one of the predefined rales has been satisfied and progression then flows to process block 410 wherein the action associated with the satisfied condition is invoked. Progression then flows to termination block 410.

The document management system of the present invention also allows a user to capture or move a plurality of documents from a document system into at least one repository or data storage area at the same time. In order to capture or move such documents, the user selects the repository or data storage area to receive the documents. The user identifies the appropriate data storage area by providing selected information about the data storage area in any manner known in the art. Such information includes, but is not limited to, data storage area location, data storage area name, access permission, user name associated with the data storage area, and user name password. The user is suitably either a system user or a guest account. The information provided by the user is then verified, and if so, the user is allowed to then transfer or move a plurality of documents from a document system to the selected data storage area. Preferably, only one data storage area may be selected for each user.

Preferably, the data storage area is selected from a private folder, a group folder, and an electronic inbox. Preferably, documents and directory tree structures are suitably captured into the data storage area, hi the event that directory tree structures are received into the data storage area, only the documents stored in those directories are captured in the data storage area.

The document system is preferably a document management system, an image generating device, an electronic mail server, and an Internet server. For example, in one embodiment, the user captures or moves the plurality of documents from a local drive or network hard drive utilizing an interface suitably implemented to allow the user to browse such devices and for selecting the documents. This is also called an upload operation. The interface allows the user to then point to the destination storage area or folder, and perform copy or move operations to place the documents in the destination data storage area or folder.

In another embodiment, the user captures input/output from an image generating device, such as scanning device, printer, copying machines, facsimile machines, and multifunctional peripherals. For example, the paper documents scanned by the user are converted to an image fomiat and are stored in the user's personal storage, or inbox folder. The user has an option of moving the documents from his/her inbox to a particular data storage area or folder in the repository.

Additionally, in another embodiment, the user captures from electronic mail as both text and an attachment. Documents sent via electronic mail is stored in the user inbox. The user has an option of moving the documents from the inbox to a particular data storage area or folder in the repository.

In another embodiment, the user captures documents or files from servers disposed on the Internet. The GUI provides the capability of specifying the URL of the source document(s) and the destination file folder. The DMP 102 then facilitates download of the specified documents for storage in the specified data storage area or folder.

In one embodiment, the document management system also includes means adapted for deselecting the desired data storage area so that the designated data storage area no longer receives documents or data from the document system. Until the user deselects the designated document area, all electronic documents and data are received from the document system into the designated document storage area. At this point, the user may stop the process or select another data storage area to receive documents or data.

In one embodiment, the document management system also includes means adapted for locking alternative data storage areas such that only the designated data storage area receives documents and data from the specified document system.

In another embodiment, the document management system provides a plurality of data storage areas or folders and each area or folder is associated with an individual user as discussed above. In this embodiment, a plurality of data storage areas are selected. Each selected data storage area or folder then receives documents or data for its associated individual user from the document system. Preferably, only one data storage area may be selected for each user. Preferably, in this embodiment, the document management system also includes means adapted for deselecting the desired data storage area for each individual user so that the designated data storage area no longer receives documents or data from the document system. Until the designated document area is deselected, all electronic documents and data are received from the document system into the designated document storage area associated with such individual user.

Referring now to Figures 5 a and 5b, there is illustrated a flow chart of the process for moving a plurality of documents to at least one selected data storage area according to the present invention. Flow commences at process block 502 where the user selects the data storage area or folder to which the documents are to be transferred. Flow then proceeds to decision block 504 wherein a determination is made if the selected data storage area is a private data storage area. If the determination is positive, the process proceeds to process block 506 wherein a shadow share data storage area corresponding to the selected data storage area on the DMM is created on the server. If the determination is negative, the process proceeds to process block 508 wherein a shadow share data storage area corresponding to the selected data storage area on the server is created on the server.

Flow then proceeds to process block 510 wherein the shadow share data storage area is opened. A determination is then made at decision block 512 to determine if the shadow data storage area is a private data storage area. If the determination is negative, flow proceeds to process block 520. If the determination is positive, then process proceeds to process block 514 where the user is prompted to provide a username and password to gain access to the data storage area.

User rights to the folder are suitably assigned by an Administrator in accordance with the level of access provided to that particular user. For example, the user may be gr.anted full access to his or her documents in private folders, yet restricted to a lesser read-only access to documents in the group folder. The Administrator can set the rights to any user, and to any document location. Note that the usemame/password login can be implemented as a single login coinciding with the network login, or as separate logins. Thus when the DMP 102 prompts the user for a usemame/password as a separate login procedure, flow progresses to decision block 516 wherein a determination is made whether the access code or login is valid.

A negative determination at decision block 516 means that the user entered invalid login information, which causes progress back to process block 518, where the user is again prompted to enter a valid access code or login.

A positive determination at decision block 516 means that the user entered a valid login, which causes progression to process block 520 wherein the user is provided access to the repository. The user is suitably granted access in accordance with the rights assigned by an Administrator and associated with the login information provided by the user.

Flow then continues to process block 522 wherein the user moves or copies a plurality of documents from the document system to the shadow share data storage area. At this point, progression flows to process block 524 wherein after a predetermined time, the documents are transferred from the shadow share data storage area to the corresponding data storage area located on the DMM.

Flow then continues to process block 526 wherein the user deselects the selected data storage container so that the data storage area no longer receives documents from the document system. The deselection of the data storage area may occur at any time. At this point, the user may select another data storage area to receive documents or stop the process as shown at 528.

The document management system of the present invention further allows a user to automate selected operations to be performed on at least one document in a data storage area. In order to perform such operations, the user selects which operations are to be performed. The user is provided the capability to select or define one or more operations to be performed. The user is then provided the opportunity to save the selected operations in a file or script. The script is an ordered sequence of selected operations. The user then associates the script with a selected data storage area. The user identifies the appropriate data storage area by providing selected information about the data storage area in any suitable manner known in the art. Such information includes, but is not limited to, data storage area location, data storage area name, access permission, user name associated with the data storage area, and user name password. The user is suitably either a system user or a guest account. The information provided by the user is then verified, and if so, the user is allowed to then perform the selected operations on the documents within the data storage area. Once the data storage area is selected, documents contained in the data storage area will be automatically processed according to the operations specified in the associated script. Preferably, only one script is associated with a data storage area may be selected for each user. Preferably, more than one data storage area is associated with one script. Preferably, the operations are performed in sequential order corresponding to the order in which the operations were associated with the data storage area. Preferably, scripts may be edited, renamed, deleted, and shared between users in any suitable mamier known in the art.

Preferably, the data storage area is selected from a private folder, a group folder, and an electronic inbox.

The selected operations which may be performed on documents in the storage area include, but are not limited to, copying any documents in the data storage area to a selected destination (Copy To), transferring any documents in the data storage area to a selected destination (Move To), converting any documents in the data storage area from a first selected file format to a selected second selected file format (Convert To), performing optical character recognition on any image format documents in the data storage area to convert image format documents to text format (OCR), assigning selected values to metadata fields any documents in the data storage area (Set Metadata), and identifying criteria which must be associated any documents in the data storage area in order for selected operations to be performed on documents (Filter By).

The Copy To operation copies the documents received in the selected data storage area to a specified destination identified by the user. To identify the destination, the user provides selected information about the specified destination in any suitable mamier known in the art. Suitable destinations, include, but are not limited to, image generating devices, electronic mail servers, Internet servers, and document management repository. The selected information about the destination is stored in a routing profile record in the document management system.

The Move To operation is similar to the Copy To operation, except that the documents received in the selected data storage area are moved or transferred to a specified destination. To identify the destination, the user provides selected information about the specified destination in any suitable manner known in the art. Suitable destinations, include, but are not limited to, image generating devices, electronic mail servers, Internet servers, and document management repository. The selected information about the destination is stored in a routing profile record in the document management system.

In the Convert To operation, the documents received into the selected data storage area are converted from a first selected file format to a second selected file format. To select the appropriate formats, the user provides information about the formats in any suitable manner lαiown in the art. Preferably, the documents are able to be converted from PS to PDF, from PDF to PS, from PS to txt, from PDF to txt, from PS to TLFF, from PS to JPG, and from PS to BMP. Other types of document conversion, including any digital graphical storage format, are suitably utilized as will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art.

The OCR operation extracts text from image format documents received into the selected data storage area, performs optical character recognition on such documents, and converts them to a text. Suitable image formats include, but are not limited to, PNG, JPG, BMP, and TIFF.

In the Set Metadata operation, selected values are assigned to metadata fields within documents in the data storage area. To select the values for the metadata fields, the user provides selected information in any suitable manner lαiown in the art. The metadata information is stored in a file located in the document management repository.

In the Filter By operation, certain criteria is identified and documents in the data storage area must meet such criteria in order for operations to be performed on the documents. For example, the user can specify that only electronic mail documents will have selected operations perfonned on the documents. The user provides the selected criteria by any suitable manner known in the art.

In one embodiment, the document management system also includes means adapted for deselecting the designated data storage area so that the selected operations are no longer performed on documents in the data storage area. Until the user deselects the designated document area, all selected operations are performed on documents received into the designated document storage area. At this point, the user may stop the process or select another data storage area for which selected operations are to be performed. hi another embodiment, the document management system includes means adapted for detennining whether the selected operations or script can be executed. If the determination is positive, the selected operations are stored in any suitable memory device . If the determination is negative, the user is prompted to edit or revise the script. The revised script is then reviewed to determine if the selected operations can be executed. hi another embodiment, the document management system provides a plurality of data storage areas, hi this embodiment, at least one document is received into each data storage area. At least one operation is associated with each data storage area and the at least one operation associated with each data storage area is performed on each document received into the associated data storage area.

Referring now to Figure 6, there is illustrated a flow chart of the process for performing at least one selected operation on documents received in a selected data storage area according to the present invention. Flow commences at process block 602 where the user selects at least one operation to be performed on documents in a data storage area.

Flow then continues to decision block 604 wherein a determination is made as whether the selected operations can be performed. If the determination is negative, the user is prompted to modify the script as shown at process block 606. The revised script is also analyzed to determine if the selected operations can be performed. If the determination is positive that the original script or the revised script is valid, flow continues to process block 608 wherein the user saves the selected operations in a script.

Flow then proceeds to process block 610 wherein the user selects a data storage area for which the script is to be associated. If the user is not currently authorized to access the data storage area, the DMP 102 prompts a user to provide a username and password to gain access. User rights to the folder are suitably assigned by an Administrator in accordance with the level of access provided to that particular user.

Flow then continues to decision block 612 wherein a determination is made whether user wishes to perfonn the selected operations on documents in the data storage area. A negative detennination causes progression to flow back to process block 610 wherein the user maintains access to the repository.

A positive determination at decision block 612 means that the user is attempting to perform the selected operations on documents in the data storage area. At this point, progression flows to process block 614 wherein the selected operations are performed on documents in the data storage area. Flow then commences to decision block 616 wherein a determination is made as whether the operations were successfully performed. If the determination is negative, the user is notified as shown in process block 618. At this point, the user may elect several options (not shown), such as modifying the script or stopping the process. If the determination is positive, flow then continues to process block 620 wherein the user deselects the selected data storage container so that the selected operations are no longer performed on documents in the document storage area. The user may deselect the data storage area at any time. At this point, the user may select another data storage area to receive documents or stop the process as shown at 622.

Although system as described runs on a network appliance, it is appreciated that it can also ran on other operating systems, for example, Linux (and other Unix operating systems), and OS by Apple Computers. Furthermore, while a presently preferred embodiment has been described in detail, it should be understood that various changes, substitutions and alterations could be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A method for processing documents managed by a network-based document management system comprising the steps of: defining at least one rale for application to document data received by a document management system, the rale comprising: at least one condition based upon at least one property, and at least one action; examining document data received by a document management system; determining if the examined document data matches the at least one condition of the at least one rule; and applying the at least one action of the at least one rule to the document data.

2. The method of claim 1 wherein the at least one property comprises at least one of information related to document data received by the document management system, calendar information, and infonnation related to a storage location in which the received document data is to be stored.

3. The method of claim 1 wherein the at least one property is selected from the group consisting of: annotation, application type, author, client, comment, creator, creation date, date completed, department, description, destination, document number, document type, group, language, manager, modified date, owner, priority, project, purpose, size, status, version, and combinations thereof.

4. The method of claim 2 wherein the information related to a storage location is selected from the group consisting of: access permission, attribute, available space, last update, name, owner, creation date, size, and combinations thereof.

5. The method of claim 4 wherein the attribute is selected from the group consisting of: compression attributes, read/write attributes, archive attributes, viewing attributes, renaming attributes, deletion attributes, and combinations thereof.

6. The method of claim 1 wherein the action is selected from the group consisting of: printing the document data, faxing the document data, emailing the document data, posting the document data to a web, storing the document data in a specified location, generating a message, and combinations thereof.

7. The method of claim 1 further comprising the steps of: receiving document data representative of a document into at least one network device in communication with the document management system; and routing the document data from the at least one network device to the document management system for storage therein.

8. The method of claim 7 wherein the step receiving document data representative of a document comprises receiving from a software program document data corresponding to a document created by the software program.

9. The method of claim 8 wherein the at least one network device comprises an email server and the step of receiving document data comprises receiving an email message having document data in an attachment.

10. The method of claim 9 wherein the at least one network device is a thick client, such that when the document data is directed to the document management system in the step of routing, the document data is converted from a first file format to a second file format prior to storing therein.

11. The method of claim 9 wherein the at least one network device is a thin client, such that when the document data is routed to the document management system in the step of routing, the document data is stored therein in its source format.

12. The method of claim 1 wherein the step of routing comprises routing document data to user personal storage in the document management system.

13. A system for processing documents managed by a network-based document management system comprising: means adapted for defining at least one rule for application to document data received by a document management system, the rale comprising: at least one condition based upon at least one property, and at least one action; means adapted for examining document data received by a document management system; means adapted for deteimining if the examined document data matches the at least one condition of the at least one rule; and means adapted applying the at least one action of the at least one rule to the document data.

14. The system of claim 13 wherein the at least one property comprises at least one of information related to document data received by the document management system, calendar infonnation, and information related to a storage location in which the received document data is to be stored.

15. The system of claim 13 wherein the at least one property is selected from the group consisting of: annotation, application type, author, client, comment, creator, creation date, date completed, department, description, destination, document number, document type, group, language, manager, modified date, owner, priority, project, purpose, size, status, version, and combinations thereof.

16. The system of claim 14 wherein the information related to a storage location is selected from the group consisting of: access permission, attribute, available space, last update, name, owner, creation date, size, and combinations thereof.

17. The system of claim 16 wherein the attribute is selected from the group consisting of: compression attributes, read/write attributes, archive attributes, viewing attributes, renaming attributes, deletion attributes, and combinations thereof.

18. The system of claim 13 wherein the action is selected from the group consisting of: printing the document data, faxing the document data, emailing the document data, posting the document data to a web, storing the document data in a specified location, generating a message, and combinations thereof.

19. The system of claim 13 further comprising: means adapted for receiving document data representative of a document into at least one network device in communication with the document management system; and means adapted for routing the document data from the at least one network device to the document management system for storage therein.

20. The system of claim 19 wherein the means adapted for receiving document data representative of a document comprises means adapted for receiving from a software program document data corresponding to a document created by the software program.

21. The system of claim 20 wherein the at least one network device comprises an email server and means adapted for receiving document data comprises means adapted for receiving an email message having document data in an attachment.

22. The system of claim 21 wherein the at least one network device is a thick client, such that when the document data is directed to the document management system, the document data is converted from a first file format to a second file format prior to storing therein.

23. The system of claim 21 wherein the at least one network device is a thin client, such that when the document data is routed to the document management system, the document data is stored therein in its source format.

24. The system of claim 13 wherein means adapted for routing comprises means adapted for routing document data to user personal storage in the document management system.

25. A method for capturing electronic documents to a preselected data storage area comprising the steps of: selecting a data storage area adapted for storage of electronic documents; and receiving, into the selected data storage area, electronic data representative of a plurality of electronic documents from at least one of a plurality of associated document systems.

26. The method according to claim 25 wherein the preselected data storage area is selected from the group consisting of a private repository folder, a network repository folder, and an electronic inbox located on an associated server.

27. The method according to claim 25 wherein the associated document systems are selected from the group consisting of image generating devices, electronic mail servers, Intemet servers, and document management systems.

28. The method according to claim 27 wherein the image generating devices include scanning devices, facsimile machines, copying machines, and multifunctional peripherals.

29. The method according to claim 25 further comprising the steps of: prompting an associated user with, selected information about the data storage area; and receiving from the associated user selection data designating a user-selected data storage area after completion of the step of prompting.

30. The method according to claim 29 wherein the selected information includes at least one of data storage area location, data storage area name, access permission, user name associated with the data storage area, and user name password.

31. The method according to claim 25 further comprising the step of locking alternative data storage areas from receipt of electronic data after completion of the step of selecting such that only one data storage area receives the electronic data.

32. The method according to claim 25 wherein the data storage area further receives electronic data representative of directory infonnation.

33. The method according to claim 25 further comprising the step of deselecting the designated data storage area, wherein all electronic documents are received into the selected data storage area until the designated data storage area is deselected.

34. The method according to claim 25 wherein a plurality of data storage areas are selected, wherein each data storage area is associated with an individual user and wherein each data storage area receives all electronic documents associated with the individual user.

35. The method according to claim 34 further comprising the step of selectively deselecting the deselecting the designated data storage area for each individual user, wherein all electronic documents associated with each individual user are received into the selected data storage associated with such individual until the designated data storage are is deselected.

36. A system for capturing electronic documents to a preselected data storage area comprising: a memory adapted for defining therein a plurality of data storage areas, each of the data storage areas being adapted for storage of electronic documents; selection means adapted for selecting a designated data storage area from the plurality thereof; and means adapted for receiving, into the selected data storage area, electronic data representative of a plurality of electronic documents from at least one of a plurality of associated document systems.

37. The system according to claim 36 further comprising a network providing data communication between the memory and each of the plurality of associated document systems.

38. The system according to claim 36 wherein the preselected data storage area is selected from the group consisting of a private repository folder, a network repository folder, and an electronic inbox located on an associated server.

38. The system according to claim 36 wherein the associated document systems are selected from the group consisting of image generating devices, electronic mail servers, hitemet servers, and document management systems.

39. The system according to claim 38 wherein the image generating devices include scanning devices, facsimile machines, copying machines, and multifunctional peripherals.

40. The system according to claim 36 further comprising: means adapted for prompting an associated user with, selected information about the data storage area; and means adapted for receiving from the associated user selection data designating a user-selected data storage area after prompting the user.

41. The system according to claim 40 wherein the selected information includes at least one of data storage area location, data storage area name, access permission, user name associated with the data storage area, and user name password.

42. The system according to claim 36 further comprising means for locking alternative data storage areas from receipt of electronic data after completion of the step of selecting such that only one data storage area receives the electronic data.

43. The system according to claim 36 wherein the data storage area further receives electronic data representative of directory information.

44. The system according to claim 36 further comprising deselection means adapted for deselecting the designated data storage area, wherein all electronic documents axe received into the selected data storage area until activation of the deselection means.

45. The system according to claim 36 further comprising: means adapted for designating a plurality of selected data storage areas, each of which is associated with an individual user; and means adapted for receiving all electronic documents associated with each individual user in a selected data storage area associated with each individual user.

46. The system according to claim 36 further comprising deselection means adapted for selectively deselecting the designated data storage area for each individual user, wherein all electronic documents associated with each individual user are received into the selected data storage associated with such individual user until area until activation of the deselection means relative to such individual user.

47. A method for automatically perfonning preselected operations on electronic documents comprising the steps of: receiving at least one electronic document into a data storage area accessible by a plurality of users; associating at least one preselected operation with the data storage area, such that such preselected operation is performed automatically by any document received into the data storage area; and performing the preselected operation on each electronic document received into the data storage area.

48. The method according to claim 47 wherein the at least one preselected operation includes copying any documents in the data storage area to a selected destination, transferring any documents in the data storage area to a selected destination, converting any documents in the data storage area from a first selected file format to a selected second selected file format, performing optical character recognition on any image format documents in the data storage area to convert the image format to text, assigning selected values to metadata fields within any documents in the data storage area, and identifying criteria which must be associated with any documents in the data storage area in order for preselected operations to be performed on documents.

49. The method according to claim 48 wherein the at least one preselected operation includes at least one of copying documents in the data storage area to a selected destination and transferring documents in the data storage area to a selected destination, and wherein the method further comprises the steps of: prompting an associated user with, selected information about the destination; and receiving from the associated user selection data designating a user-selected destination after the completion of the step of prompting the user.

50. The method according to claim 49 wherein the designated destination is selected from the group consisting of an image generating device, an electronic mail server, an hitemet server, and a document management repository.

51. The method according to claim 48 wherein the at least one preselected operation includes converting documents in the data storage area from a first selected file format to a second selected file format, and wherein the method further comprises the steps of: prompting an associated user with, selected information about the first and second file formats; and receiving from the associated user selection data designating user-selected file formats after the completion of the step of prompting the user.

52. The method according to claim 51 wherein the designated file formats include PS, PDF, txt, TIFF, JPG, and BMP.

53. The method according to claim 48 wherein the at least one preselected operation includes assigning values to metadata fields within documents in the data storage area, and wherein the method further comprises the steps of: prompting an associated user with, selected information about metadata values; and receiving from the associated user selection data designating metadata values after the completion of the step of prompting the user.

54. The method according to claim 48 wherein the at least one preselected operation includes identifying criteria which must be associated with any documents in the data storage area in order for preselected operations to be perfonned on documents, and wherein the method further comprises the steps of: prompting an associated user with, selected information about such criteria; and receiving from the associated user selection data designating criteria after the completion of the step of prompting the user.

55. The method according to claim 47 further comprising the steps of: prompting an associated user with, selected information about a data storage area for which the at least one electronic document is to be received; and receiving from the associated user selection data designating a user-selected data storage area after completion of the step of prompting the user.

56. The method according to claim 55 further comprising the step of deselecting the designated data storage area, wherein the at least one preselected operation is perfonned on all the electronic documents in the selected data storage area until the designated data storage area is deselected.

57. The method according to claim 57 further comprising the steps of: determining whether the at least one preselected operation is able to be performed; based on a positive determination, storing the at least one preselected operation in a memory device; and based on a negative determination, prompting an associated user to modify the at least one preselected operation.

58. The method according to claim 47 wherein a plurality of preselected operations are associated with the data storage area and wherein the preselected operations are performed in the order in which the preselected operations were associated with the data storage area.

59. The method according to claim 47 wherein at least one electronic document is received into each of a plurality of data storage areas, wherein at least one preselected operation is associated with each data storage area, and wherein the at least one preselected operation associated with each data storage is performed on each document received into the associated data storage area.

60. A system for automatically performing preselected operations on electronic documents comprising: a memory adapted for defining therein a plurality of data storage areas, each of the data storage areas being adapted for storage of electronic documents; means adapted for receiving at least one electronic document into a data storage area accessible by a plurality of users; means adapted for associating at least one preselected operation with the data storage area, such that such preselected operation is performed automatically by any document received into the data storage area; and means adapted for performing the preselected operation on each electronic document received into the data storage area.

61. The system according to claim 60 wherein the at least one preselected operation includes copying any documents in the data storage area to a selected destination, transferring any documents in the data storage area to a selected destination, converting any documents in the data storage area from a first selected file format to a selected second selected file format, performing optical character recognition on any image format documents in the data storage area to convert image format documents to text, assigning selected values to metadata fields within any documents in the data storage area, and identifying criteria which must be associated with any documents in the data storage area in order for preselected operations to be perfonned on documents.

62. The system according to claim 61 wherein the at least one preselected operation includes at least one of copying documents to a selected destination and transferring documents to a selected destination, and wherein the system further comprises: means adapted for prompting an associated user with, selected information about the destination; and means adapted for receiving from the associated user selection data designating a user-selected destination after the prompting the user.

63. The system according to claim 62 wherein the designated destination is selected from the group consisting of an image generating device, an electronic mail server, an Internet server, and a document management system.

64. The system according to claim 61 wherein the at least one preselected operation includes converting documents in the data storage area from a first selected file format to a second selected file format, and wherein the system further comprises: means adapted for prompting an associated user with, selected information about the first and second file formats; and means adapted for receiving from the associated user selection data designating user-selected file formats after prompting the user.

65. The system according to claim 64 wherein the designated file formats include PS, PDF, txt, TIFF, JPG, and BMP.

66. The system according to claim 60 wherein the at least one preselected operation includes assigning values to metadata fields within documents in the data storage area, and wherein the method further comprises the steps of: prompting an associated user with, selected information about metadata values; and receiving from the associated user selection data designating metadata values after the completion of the step of prompting the user.

67. The system according to claim 61 wherein the at least one preselected operation includes identifying criteria which must be associated with any documents in the data storage area in order for preselected operations to be performed on documents, and wherein the method further comprises the steps of: prompting an associated user with, selected information about such criteria; and receiving from the associated user selection data designating criteria after the completion of the step of prompting the user.

68. The system according to claim 61 further comprising:

means adapted for prompting an associated user with, selected information about a data storage area for which the at least one electronic document is to be received; and means adapted for receiving from the associated user selection data designating a user-selected data storage area after prompting the user.

69. The system according to claim 68 further comprising means for deselecting the designated data storage area, wherein the at least one preselected operation is performed on all the electronic documents in the selected data storage area until the designated data storage area is deselected.

70. The system according to claim 61 further comprising: means adapted for detennining whether the at least one preselected operation are able to be performed; based on a positive determination, means adapted for storing the at least one preselected operation in a memory device; and based on a negative determination, means adapted for prompting an associated user to modify the at least one preselected operation.

71. The system according to claim 61 further comprising means adapted for associating a plurality of preselected operations with the data storage area, wherein the preselected operations are perfonned in the order in which the preselected operations were associated with the data storage area.