JP4370234B2 - Information processing apparatus and information processing program - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an information processing management system for obtaining, processing, and delivering a processing result of a work item, and particularly relates to a technique for editing the information processing management system according to a user's desire. .

  Today, where so-called OA devices are widely used, various unprocessed cases (hereinafter referred to as work items) that have been processed in writing in the past are registered as information data in a large number of computers. There is a remarkable spread of business forms in which a plurality of processes are performed according to the business of the customer, and the final information obtained as a result is provided to the customer as a product. As a result, the information that is handled today is increasingly being saved in writing, and the tendency to become a computer-based database is becoming stronger.

  In this way, when information is made into a database one by one, the location of the information is searched for a computer, a file in which the information is recorded is searched, and after confirming the contents and progress of the file, predetermined processing is performed. There must be. However, in many cases, only the creator knows the file storage location and file name, and in order to know the progress, the contents of the file must be thoroughly verified, so when the creator is absent Since it is unclear how far the processing of the target work item has been completed, it is necessary to carry out the extremely complicated preliminary work of examining the progress of the work item before performing the essential work. There was an inconvenience to say.

  In addition, due to the fact that due dates are associated with work, it is necessary to manage these due dates, and in particular, many work items are registered and their processing progresses individually on a daily basis. It is not easy to determine whether or not the situation satisfies a predetermined schedule.

  In addition, if there are multiple processing phases in the business and different processing is performed for each, different types of information data may be filed for each work item as the business progresses. Furthermore, as a result of an increase in information data to be managed such as backup files, the management work thereof becomes complicated for the user.

As a technique for eliminating the complexity of work that the user suffers as described above, for example, a technique for enhancing a user interface as disclosed in Patent Document 1 below, or a user as disclosed in Patent Document 2 below, for example. A schedule management system for notifying a user of a reminder in accordance with a work item related to the schedule event has been introduced, but the inconvenience has not been solved.
JP 11-312064 A JP 2001-350884 A

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and while actually processing a work item that is required to go through a plurality of processing phases, it also manages the processing history in each processing phase at the same time. It is an object of the present invention to provide an information processing apparatus and an information processing program that can edit an information processing management system that can be performed according to a user's application.

  An information processing apparatus according to the present invention configured to solve the above problems is an information processing apparatus that executes processing of a work item by a programmed computer, and is a series of processes from reception of a work item to output of a processing result. A menu window for a plurality of processing phases in accordance with the processing sequence, a workflow editing means for editing workflow data in which display names of work items existing in each processing phase are collectively displayed, and a workflow based on the configuration data. Display a processing command for the work item selected in the menu window of each processing phase, apply the processing program assigned to each processing phase to the selected work item, and assign the processing program to the processing phase. The display name of the work item that has been processed A work item management means to transfer from the phase menu window to the menu window of the next processing phase, characterized by comprising a.

  In the workflow editing means, a field data creation module for editing field data in which management information for specifying a field to which data belongs for each workflow is registered together with a field ID, and user management using the workflow A user data creation module for editing user data in which information is registered together with the field ID and user ID, and a phase in which phase information in which management information for each processing phase included in the work flow is registered together with the field ID and phase ID is edited. A data creation module, a bridge data creation module for editing bridge data in which management information when a work item moves between processing phases included in the work flow is registered together with the field ID and the bridge ID, and the work flow A user authority creation module for editing user authority data registered together with the field ID, phase ID, or bridge ID and the user ID in the authority information of each user in the work item management means, A field display module that displays the workflow based on field data, user data, phase data, bridge data, user authority data, and item data, and a user who has a use authority for a user who requests use of the workflow A user authentication module that determines whether or not based on the user data or user authority data, the processing program is identified with reference to the phase data, and the processing program is made to function for the selected work item and returned. Save value data A processing program receiving module, receiving a processing command, identifying a work item selected by referring to the item data, and displaying a display name of the selected work item in a predetermined processing phase based on the phase data and bridge data The item data moving module to be moved to the menu window, the processing command is received, the user authentication module and the processing program starting module are functioned, and the item data in which the management information of the work item is registered together with the field ID and the item ID is stored. The information processing apparatus may include an item data creation / editing module to be edited.

  In addition, the editing means includes a phase data creation module for editing phase data in which phase classifications indicating the presence or absence of diffusion and combination from each processing phase are registered, and the work item management means includes The item data creation / editing module that edits item data for registering a family ID that becomes a mark when diffusing and rejoining from each processing phase as a starting point, and receiving a processing commander and selected by referring to the item data The work item is specified, and the item data of the selected work item is copied as item data of the next processing phase determined based on the phase data and the bridge data, respectively, and the selection is made in the menu window of the next processing phase. Work item The item diffusion copy module for copying the display name, the work item moved to the joining phase and the item data of the work item existing in the joining phase are collated to identify the work item having the common family ID, A diffusion copy item combining module that deletes all work items having a common family ID while leaving one of the specified work items when all work items that should have family IDs can be identified. A processing device may be used.

  In addition, as an information processing program that solves the above problem, an information processing program that functions as any one of the above information processing apparatuses can be used in a computer that executes processing of the work item.

  According to the information processing program and the information processing apparatus of the present invention, it is possible to create a work flow having a phase window layout freely according to a processing sequence required by the user, and information based on the work flow. Process management becomes possible, and even if you want to process information in any processing system, if you create a work flow according to circumstances each time, the progress information of the information processing will be reflected in the created work flow Because it is displayed in the form, it is possible to judge at a glance the contents of information and the progress.

  In addition, according to the progress of the processing, the configuration data of the target work item is updated in a form arranged in an area determined based on a predetermined index. This eliminates the extremely complicated work of verifying the confused and distributed configuration data in detail and checking the processing phase that has already been completed for the work item before the critical work is performed. It is burned. Thus, even if it is not a specific person in charge, information processing work in an appropriate processing phase can be immediately started, which contributes to the promotion of information processing work and the efficiency of the work.

  In the following, an embodiment of the information processing apparatus and information processing program according to the present invention is an example of performing information processing comprising six processing phases (see FIG. 13) consisting of drawing reception, drawing approval, parts manufacturing, assembly, and completion. This will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

  In the information processing apparatus shown here, information processing by an information processing program is realized using a computer including an input device such as a keyboard and a mouse, and an output device such as a display device and a printer. Editing a work flow 1 that collectively displays a menu window 2 of a plurality of processing phases in accordance with a series of processing sequences from reception of a process to output of processing results and a display name 4 of work items in each processing phase Means and the work flow 1 are displayed, and the work item is selected in the menu window 2 of the current processing phase in the work flow 1 and a process command for the data of the work item is received, and assigned to the process command. The appropriate processing program for the selected work item While a computer system and a work item management means to transfer the display name 4 of the work items from the menu window 2 of the current processing phase to the menu window 2 the following processing phase (Figure 1).

  The editing means includes a field data creation module for editing field data in which management information for identifying a field to which data belongs for each work flow 1 is registered together with a field ID, and user management using the work flow 1 User data creation module for editing user data in which information is registered together with the field ID and user ID, and phase data in which management information for each processing phase included in the work flow 1 is registered together with the field ID and phase ID A phase data creation module, a bridge data creation module that edits bridge data in which management information when a work item moves between processing phases included in the work flow 1 is registered together with the field ID and the bridge ID, and the work Flow The field ID authority information for each user in one Phase ID, or bridge ID, and includes a user authorization creation module to edit user authority data registered with the user ID.

  The field data creation module displays a predetermined input support screen on the display device, prompts the input of the field ID indicating the edit field assigned to the work flow 1 to be edited, and the field name, and the input fields. This is a user interface that correlates data as shown in FIG. 3A and records the data as a field table in a storage device.

  The user data creation module displays a predetermined input support screen on a display device, and inputs a user ID, a user name (login name), and a password of a user who has an authority to use an edit field indicated by the field table. This is a user interface that prompts and associates the input user data with the field ID of the field to which the user table belongs as shown in FIG. 3B and records it in the storage device as a user table.

  The phase data creation module displays a predetermined input support screen on a display device, and each menu window 2 listed by a click operation or a drag operation using a pointing means such as a mouse (hereinafter referred to as a mouse). Set the rectangular area. A predetermined input support screen is further displayed on the display device for each rectangular area, and the phase data is set using a text input means such as a keyboard or a mouse.

  At that time, the phase data creation module includes the field ID of the field to which the phase data belongs, the phase ID of the processing phase to be set, the phase name, the retention time limit (processing time limit), the phase classification, the rectangular coordinates, and the new Create button for work item creation, creation button press launch application and launch option command line, double click launch application (with editing right), launch option command line, and double click launch application (no editing right) ), And the startup option command line,..., Prompting the input of the startup application at drop (no editing right) and the startup option command line, and inputting the phase data as shown in FIG. Associated with field ID of the field the user table belongs, a user interface for recording in the storage device as a phase table.

  The phase classification is a classification based on the presence or absence of branching or focusing of processing (whether or not configuration data is diffused or combined) on the processing sequence, and normal processing phases without branching or focusing of processing are normal. The processing phase that is the starting point for the branching of processing is the diffusion phase, and the processing phase that is the convergence point of the plurality of processing phases is the combined phase. The stay limit time is set data of a limit time that is allowed to spend processing for completion.

  The rectangular coordinates are coordinates that determine the position and size of the rectangular menu window 2 on the work flow 1. The presence / absence of the creation button is setting data as to whether or not a creation button is provided for the menu window 2 in the processing phase in which a work item needs to be newly registered. When there is a creation button, the menu window 2 provided with the creation button is displayed (see FIG. 17A, check box: display of a new creation button).

  The creation button press activation application is a processing program that is activated when the creation button is pressed (clicked, etc.), and its activation option command line is set to be executed together with the activation of the processing program 1 Alternatively, the command line is composed of two or more commanders and the location of the processing target of the commander.

  Similarly, the double-click activation application is a processing program that is activated by double-clicking on the display name 4 of the work item displayed in the menu window 2 (see the double-click tag window in FIG. 17B). . The drop activation application is a processing program that is activated by a drop operation included in the drag and drop operation for the display name 4 of the work item displayed in the menu window 2. “With editing right” and “without editing right” are data for different processing programs to be started depending on whether the user who uses the editing right has the editing right or not. Hereinafter, these activation applications and respective activation option command lines are referred to as item operations.

  The bridge data creation module displays a predetermined input support screen on a display device, sets a route (bridge 3) for connecting each processing phase in a processing sequence by clicking or dragging with a mouse or the like. Prompts the user to input the bridge ID, the start and end coordinates of the bridge 3, the start phase ID that is the ID of the process phase that corresponds to the start point of the bridge 3, and the end phase ID that is the ID of the process phase that corresponds to the end point of the bridge 3 At the same time, it is a user interface that associates the input bridge data with the field ID of the field to which the bridge table belongs as shown in FIG. 3D and records it in the storage device as a bridge table.

  The user authority creation module displays a predetermined input support screen on a display device, and the user ID of a user who has some authority to use the field specified by the field table, and the user tries to perform information processing work. A process ID or bridge ID, and an authority No. indicating the authority content of the user in the operation phase or bridge 3 of the user. A user interface that prompts the user to input a name (login name) and associates the input user data with the field ID of the field to which the user authority table belongs as shown in FIG. It is.

  In the example, the authority No. As shown in FIG. 4B, eight types 1 to 8 are provided. 1or2: New creation possibility, 3or4: Editing possibility, 5or6: Viewing possibility, and 7or8: Bridge passage possibility Multiple options can be set by alternative.

  When the workflow editing means configured as described above functions, an input support screen (edit menu screen) shown in FIG. 14 is displayed on the display device. When editing the work flow 1 for performing the desired information processing work, click the new creation button on the editing menu screen and press it (hereinafter referred to as pressing) to make the field data creation module function. . When a field name is keyed and the OK button is pressed on the edit menu screen, a field table in which a predetermined field ID is assigned to the field name is formed, and the work flow edit screen shown in FIG. The input support screen (edit screen) is displayed on the display device.

  When the user button is pressed on the editing screen, the user data creation module functions and an input support screen (user setting screen) shown in FIG. 15 is displayed on the display device. The user table is formed by inputting the user name and password and pressing the OK button.

  Further, when the phase button on the edit screen is pressed and window edit work is selected from the pull-down menu, the user setting screen is closed and the phase data creation module functions, and the edit screen (see FIG. 16A) is displayed. The window editing mode is set while displaying on the display device. Therefore, when a rectangular area suitable for the menu window 2 constituting the work flow 1 is drawn on the editing screen by a drag operation with a mouse or the like, the coordinates for determining the drawn rectangular area are the phase data as the rectangular coordinates. The data is recorded in a predetermined area of the storage device as described above.

  After the rectangular area is determined, when the phase button on the editing screen is pressed and phase setting work is selected from the pull-down menu, the phase setting screen shown in FIGS. 17A and 17B is displayed by the function of the phase data creation module. It is displayed on the display device and enters the phase setting mode. Therefore, when the name of the processing phase, the processing time limit, the phase classification, the presence / absence of the creation button, and the item operation are set in the input box of the phase setting screen by dragging with a key input or a mouse, etc. Is recorded as the phase data in a predetermined area of the storage device as described above, and the editing screen displaying the name of the processing phase and the creation button is displayed on the display device as shown in FIG.

  The item operation setting is performed by pressing a tag of a desired operation on the phase setting screen and selecting a command line such as an execution file and database file of an application already registered and a macro in a dialog window of each tag. . In this example, for applications that are activated by double-click, drop, and right-click operations, activation applications are set for users who have editing authority and for users who do not have editing authority.

  The execution file to be selected is registered in the execution file shown in FIG. 20A by the new registration function of the phase data creation module when the registration operation of the execution file is selected from the pull-down menu by pressing the phase button on the editing screen. The screen is displayed on the display device, and the execution file registration mode is set. Therefore, if you select an executable file installed on the computer and set the name and type of the file in the input box of the file registration screen by clicking or dragging with a key, mouse, etc., they are registered. The recorded processing program is recorded in a predetermined area of the storage device.

  On the other hand, the database file to be selected or the command line can be displayed in FIG. 20B by the new registration function of the phase data creation module when the database registration operation is selected from the pull-down menu by pressing the phase button on the editing screen. The database registration screen shown is displayed on the display device, and enters the database registration mode. Therefore, the database file and macro name saved in the computer are selected, and the name and location of the database file and the macro are entered into the input box of the database registration screen by key input, click operation or dragging with a mouse or the like. When a name is set, they are recorded in a predetermined area of the storage device as an activation option of the processing program.

  When the bridge button on the editing screen is pressed after the phase setting operation is completed, the bridge setting mode in which the bridge 3 can be drawn on the editing screen displayed on the display device is set by the function of the bridge data creation module. The bridge drawing work is performed by an operation of dragging the cursor from the menu window 2 to the menu window 2 in each processing phase. The start point coordinates and end point coordinates of the drag operation given by the drag operation, and the process that is the start point are performed. The phase ID of the phase and the phase ID of the processing phase that is the end point are recorded as a bridge data in a predetermined area of the storage device.

  When the user button on the edit screen is pressed after the bridge setting operation is completed, a user list (not shown) is displayed on the display device by the function of the user authority creation module, and the authority listed in the list is displayed by the user. When a user who wants to set is selected by pressing, a user authority creation mode in which authority display of each user can be selected based on the work flow 1 displayed on the display device is set, and FIGS. 19 (A) and 19 (B). A user authority setting screen such as is displayed on the display device.

  In the user authority creation work, the “○” button is displayed for each of the creation, editing, or browsing work items displayed in the menu window 2 of each processing phase displayed on the user authority setting screen. If it is not permitted, it is set by pressing the “x” button, and if the movement of the work item is permitted for the bridge 3 from the menu window 2 to the menu window 2 in each processing phase, the “○” button is clicked. If not allowed, press the “x” button to set. The content set in this way is that the phase ID of the processing phase corresponding to the menu window 2 including the position coordinates of the click operation given by the pressing or the bridge ID of the bridge 3 constitutes the user authority table. As user authority data to be recorded in a predetermined area of the storage device.

Thus, the editing of the work flow 1 by the work flow editing means is completed, and the information processing work using the work flow 1 can be performed by the work item editing means.
The work item management means will be described below.

  The work item management means requests the use of the work flow 1 and a field display module for displaying the work flow 1 based on the field data, user data, phase data, bridge data, user authority data, and item data. A user authentication module that determines whether or not a user who has usage authority is based on the user data or the user authority data, and identifies the processing program with reference to the phase data, and the selected work A processing program activation module that functions the processing program for an item and stores the return value data, receives a processing command, identifies a work item selected with reference to the item data, and selects the selected work item Display name 4 is the phase data And an item data moving module to be transferred to the menu window 2 of a predetermined processing phase based on the bridge data, a processing command is received, and the user authentication module and the processing program starting module are made to function, and the work item management information is stored in the field ID And an item data creation / editing module for editing the item data registered together with the item ID, and a work time management module for managing the residence time of work items existing in each phase for each phase.

  The item data creation / editing module in the example displays a predetermined input support screen on the display device, prompts input of an item ID as an identifier of the work item, a display name on the work flow, and a completion deadline, and Set the display name rectangular area coordinates indicating the display position of the display name and the stay start time (date and time) in the phase where the work item exists, save the attached data returned from the processing program, and input, set, or This is a user interface for associating stored item data with the field ID of the field to which the item table belongs as shown in FIG.

  In this example, as the item data edited by the item data creation / editing module, a family ID is added as a mark when each work item is diffused and combined again from each processing phase as a starting point, and the family ID is used. In addition, a process command is received, a work item selected by referring to the item data is specified, and a plurality of item data items of the selected work item are determined based on the phase data and bridge data. Item diffusion copy module for copying each item data of the phase and copying the display name 4 of the selected work item to the menu window 2 of the next processing phase, the work item moved to the combination phase, and the combination phase When the work item having the common family ID is identified by collating with the item data of the existing work item, and all the work items having the common family ID can be identified, one of the identified work items is identified. And a diffusion copy item combination module that deletes all work items having a common family ID.

  When the work item management means functions, first, the user authentication module is operated, and the user authentication screen shown in FIG. 21 is read from the database and displayed on the display device. By inputting the user name and password on the user authentication screen and pressing the OK button, whether or not there is a user that matches the user name and password is checked with reference to the user table (FIG. 5). (See (F)). Therefore, when it is determined that the user matches the user name and password, the field display module is subsequently operated, and various types of data are referred to by referring to the field table, phase table, bridge table, and item table of the database. The data is read (see FIG. 5G), and the form of the work flow 1 is read from the database and output to the display device. On the other hand, if they do not match, the function of the work item management means is stopped.

  The example of the work flow 1 shown in FIG. 13 represents a connection of work processes from design to assembly of machine parts, and includes work item reception, part drawing approval, part production, and assembly. The processing phase menu windows 2 and 2 are connected by a bridge 3 having a long and narrow triangle to indicate the processing route and direction. On the way, a plurality of bridges 3 from the menu window 2 in the diffusion phase to the menu window 2 in the plurality of processing phases are set, and a plurality of bridges 3 from the menu window 2 in the plurality of processing phases to the menu window 2 in the combination phase are set. By setting, a work flow 1 is constituted by six menu windows 2 that are diffused into two processing phases in the production of the parts and converged to the assembly processing phase.

  The six menu windows 2 are a reception window, an approval window, a part processing window A, a part processing window B, an assembly window, and a completion window, and the menu window 2 in the processing process is in the processing phase. Icons and labels (hereinafter referred to as display names 4) that are display names 4 of work items are displayed in a list. As the display name 4 in this example, “Requester XX” is exemplified in the reception window.

  Each of the menu windows 2 or the bridge 3 connecting them is appropriately provided with a creation button that requests a function for creating a new work item based on the phase data edited by the phase data creation module.

  In this example, when a new work item is created, each module, processing program, data, and the like cooperate as shown in FIG. 5H according to the flowchart shown in FIG. That is, the item data creation / editing module refers to the phase table, acquires the phase ID from the coordinates of the cursor, and determines whether the creation button has been pressed. Therefore, if it is determined that the creation button has been pressed, the item data creation / editing module further causes the user authentication module to function, and a user whose user name and password have previously been keyed on the user authentication screen is displayed. Next, whether or not the menu window 2 or the bridge 3 in which the edit button is pressed has the authority to use the function operated by the creation button is checked by referring to the user authority table and the phase table. If it is determined, the input support screen is subsequently displayed on the display device, and the item ID (unique ID) of the newly created item is acquired.

  Subsequently, the item data creation / editing module causes the processing program startup module to function, refers to the phase table, and executes a predetermined startup application for the processing phase (a processing program (for example, a commercial application program used in the processing phase)) ), And a predetermined start command option line (start option) for the processing phase in the processing program is made to function, and an input support screen for the predetermined start option in the processing program is displayed on the display device.

  When the processing program functions normally, the work item new creation work is completed normally, and when the processing program ends, the item data creation / editing module is used for the item data of the work item newly added by the processing program. A data buffer having the same configuration as the item data is created, and the display name of the data buffer is set as the item ID.

  Next, the item data creation / editing module determines whether or not return value data has been generated in the new creation operation. If no return value data has been generated, the data buffer residence start time and completion are determined. The deadline is the current time, the contents of the data buffer are added as item data to the item table, and the new creation operation is terminated.

  When return value data is generated in the new creation operation, it is determined whether or not a display name that is one of the return value data is specified. When the display name is specified, the display name of the data buffer is a character string specified as the display name. When the display name is not specified, the item ID is used as the display name as it is. In the new creation work, it is determined whether or not editing data as attached data placed under the management of the information processing program has occurred.

  When the attached data is generated, the attached data is copied as data in the data buffer, the dwell start time and the completion deadline of the data buffer are set as the current time, the display name rectangular area coordinates are set, the data The contents of the buffer are added to the item table as item data, and the new creation work is completed. On the other hand, if the attached data does not occur, the data buffer retention start time and completion deadline are set as the current time, and the display name rectangular area coordinates are set. Is added to the item table as item data, and the new creation work is terminated.

  Note that the return value data is output data returned from the processing program to the work item management means, and is data placed under the management of the information processing program. For example, when the display name 4 of a newly registered work item is specified under the function of the processing program, the work program is returned from the processing program to the work item management unit, and the work item 1 is aliased (alias etc.). The display name 4 of the work item displayed and managed as).

Specifically, the processing program receives the item ID “001” as an activation option character string, and under the function of the processing program, normally finishes a new work item creation operation, and when the processing program ends, A character string entered as an item name or other edited character string: “Requester XX” is formed as a text file containing the item ID: “001.txt”, and is output and saved as return data. To do. The completion deadline is also one of the return value data. A specific keyword (/ DATE) is attached to the return value data of the completion deadline, and “~ / DATE 2004/10/10”
Output as 23: 45: 10 ~ "and save.

  On the other hand, the item data creation / editing module whose control authority is returned from the processing program searches the text file: “001.txt” from the new item ID at the time of calling the processing program, and the text file: “001.txt”. “Open to obtain the display name 4 and update the display name of the item data as described above, and when the work item is newly created, a display name rectangle for outputting the display name of the work item Update the region. If the display name 4 cannot be acquired, the item ID is used as the display name, and the display name and display name rectangular area of the item data are updated.

  Further, the item data creation / editing module causes the field display module to function, reads various data with reference to the field table, phase table, bridge table, and item table of the database, and reads the work flow 1 from the database. And the work flow 1 in which the display name 4 of the new work item is added to the menu window 2 of the processing phase is displayed on the display device.

  On the other hand, when modifying or editing an existing work item, or browsing, each module, processing program, data, etc. cooperate as shown in FIG. 5H according to the flowchart shown in FIG. Become. The item data creation / editing module detects the position coordinates of the cursor when a double-click operation is performed with a mouse or the like. The item data creation / editing module refers to the rectangular coordinates of the phase table, tries to acquire the phase ID corresponding to the phase table where the cursor exists from the coordinates of the cursor, and the cursor is in the menu window of any processing phase. It is determined whether or not it exists in area 2. If it is determined that the item does not exist in the area, the item data creation / editing module stops functioning.

  If it is determined that the cursor exists in the area of the menu window 2, the item data creation / editing module further refers to the display name rectangular area coordinates of the item table, and displays that the cursor exists from the coordinates of the cursor. An attempt is made to acquire an item ID corresponding to the name rectangle area, and it is determined whether or not the cursor exists in the display name rectangle area of any item. If it is determined that the item does not exist in the display name rectangular area, the item data creation / editing module stops its function.

  If it is determined that the cursor exists in the display name rectangular area, the item data creation / editing module causes the user authentication module to function, and a user whose user name and password are previously keyed on the user authentication screen is displayed. Further, in the processing phase corresponding to the menu window 2, whether or not the work item has the authority to use the editing function or the browsing function is checked with reference to the user authority table, the phase table, and the item table. If it is determined that there is no authority, the function of the item data creation / edit module is stopped.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the user has the authority, the user is currently performing some processing by the other user on the work item through the communication means, and the item data can be updated by the other user (hereinafter referred to as the item data). The item data creation / editing module stops functioning when it is determined that it is in use by referring to the user ID of the item data indicating the user in use. .

  If it is determined that no other user is using the item data creation and editing module, the use user ID is updated to the user ID of the user requesting the function to edit the work item, The processing program activation module is functioned, the phase table is referenced, the processing phase predetermined processing program and the activation option in the processing program are functioned, the activation option based on the activation of the processing program, and the work item predetermined The input support screen is displayed on the display device.

  When the processing program ends normally, the item data creation / editing module creates a data buffer having the same configuration as the item data of the work item to be edited by the processing program, and returns data as in the new creation work. The presence or absence of a new display name and the presence or absence of ancillary data are verified based on the contents recorded in the data buffer with the editing work. The item data is updated so as to reflect the changed contents in the data buffer.

In this example, the information processing program whose control authority has been returned from the processing program even after the processing program has ended normally and the processing program has ended normally, while the processing program is functioning. The (item data creation / editing module) is in principle not concerned with the management of the data file edited by the processing program except for the attached data.

However, the specific processing form differs depending on whether the processing program is a commercially available program, or whether the processing program has a management function for the edited data file, and the item data creation / editing The module manages the data file edited by the processing program as follows.

  The processing program is a commercially available program, has data management capability for the edited data file, can receive an item ID by a startup macro, VBA (Visual Basic for Applications), etc., and can perform operations such as branch processing. In this case, the data edited by the processing program is not handled as the attached data of the item data, and is positioned as item auxiliary data that is not under the management of the information processing program in principle.

  For example, to explain based on the case where the processing program is a program having a database function, an item ID field is provided as a database record of the processing program in advance, and the processing program is started to perform editing work on the work item. When performing, the target item ID is passed to the processing program as the activation option, and only the record corresponding to the item ID is displayed for editing. At the end of the editing operation, the input character string and drawing data are saved by the function of the processing program.

  If the management right of the edited data file can be transferred according to the capability of the processing program, the item data creation / editing module (the information processing program) converts the data file into the item data. It can also be managed appropriately as ancillary data.

  In addition, when the processing program is a commercially available program and does not have a data management capability for the edited data file, the data edited by the processing program is exclusively stored in the information processing program. It is positioned as item auxiliary data that is not under management.

  For example, when the processing program is a simple text editor program, when managing such a commercial program, a startup macro or a startup program that replaces the VBA when starting the processing program is set in advance as VB. (Visual Basic) or in C language, the activation program receives the item ID as an activation option, creates an arbitrary file name including the item ID, and activates the processing program.

  When the editing program is finished and the processing program is finished, the startup program to which the control authority is returned returns the update data or other update data when return data or other update data is generated in the edit work. The update data is written to update the data file of the work item. If the return value data and other update data are not generated, the process ends without updating the data file. Whether or not the activation program returns an updated data file to the item data creation / editing module (the information processing program) depends on the specifications of the activation program.

  Further, when the processing program is not a commercially available program but newly created (hereinafter referred to as a non-buy program), a commercially available program that does not have data management capability for the edited data file Similarly, a startup macro for starting the processing program and a startup program that replaces VBA are created in advance, and a program (hereinafter referred to as a main body program) that performs processing required in the processing phase is created, The activation program receives the item ID as an activation option, creates an original file name including the item ID, and activates the main body program.

  When the editing program is finished and the main body program is finished, the startup program to which the control authority is returned returns the return data or other data when return data or other update data is generated in the editing work. The update data is written to update the data file of the work item, and if the return value data or other update data does not occur, the process ends without updating the data file. Also in this case, whether or not the activation program returns the data file to the item data creation / editing module (the information processing program) depends on the specification of the activation program.

  On the other hand, the item data creation / editing module (the information processing program) to which the control authority is returned from the various processing programs is generated when return data or update data accompanied by a change in attached data is generated based on the processing. The item data is appropriately updated by updating the return value data and the attached data, and the process is terminated.

  Finally, the item data creation / edit module is the user ID of the user who has requested a function for editing or browsing the work item, which is recorded in the use user ID of the item data indicating the user in use. The recording of is canceled and the function of the module is terminated.

  The item data moving module is a module for moving work items that have been processed by a predetermined processing program in the menu window 2 of each processing phase to the menu window 2 of the next processing phase.

  The item data movement module detects the position coordinates of the cursor at the start point and the end point when a drag and drop operation (hereinafter referred to as a drag operation) is performed with a mouse or the like. The drag operation includes a mouse down operation in which a cursor is moved and a drag start point is determined by pressing a button of the mouse, a move operation in which the mouse is moved while the button of the mouse is continuously pressed, and a drag operation. It consists of a mouse up operation that determines the end point by ending the pressing of a button such as a mouse. Each will be described below separately (see FIG. 5I).

  At the time of the mouse down operation (see FIG. 8), the item data movement module refers to the rectangular coordinates of the phase table and tries to acquire the phase ID corresponding to the phase table where the cursor exists from the coordinates of the cursor, It is determined whether or not the cursor exists in the area of the menu window 2 in any processing phase. If it is determined that the item does not exist in the area, the item data movement module stops functioning.

  If it is determined that the cursor exists in the area of the menu window 2, the item data movement module further refers to the display name rectangular area coordinates of the item table, and the display name where the cursor exists from the coordinates of the cursor. An attempt is made to acquire the item ID corresponding to the rectangular area, and it is determined whether or not the cursor exists in the display name rectangular area of any item. If it is determined that the item does not exist in the display name rectangular area, the item data movement module stops functioning without holding the item ID.

  When it is determined that the cursor exists in the display name rectangular area, the item data movement module determines whether the item data is currently being used by another user for the work item through the communication means. The item data movement module stops functioning when it is determined with reference to the user ID used and when it is determined that it is in use.

  If it is determined that no other user is using the item data movement module, the item data movement module updates the user ID of the item data to the user ID of the user requesting the function for editing the work item. At the same time, the storage area stores the phase ID of the processing phase that is the starting point of the movement and the item ID of the work item to be moved.

  At the time of the move operation (see FIG. 9), it is confirmed whether or not the item ID of the work item to be moved is held, and if not, the item data movement module performs the drag operation. If not, it is determined that the operation is a simple cursor movement operation, and the function of the item data movement module is terminated.

  On the other hand, in the case of holding, the item data movement module causes the field display module to function every time it is confirmed, and refers to the field table, phase table, bridge table, and item table of the database to store various data. At the same time, the form of the work flow 1 is read from the database, and the display position of the display name 4 of the work item corresponding to the item ID in the work flow 1 is updated.

  At the time of the mouse up operation, that is, at the time of dropping (see FIG. 10), it is confirmed whether or not the item ID of the work item to be moved is held. Then, it is determined that the operation is not a drag operation but a simple cursor movement operation, and the function of the item data movement module is terminated.

  On the other hand, if it is held, the item data movement module detects the position coordinates corresponding to the end point of the cursor in the drag operation, and refers to the rectangular coordinates indicating the position of each menu window 2 in the phase table. Then, an attempt is made to acquire a phase ID corresponding to the menu window 2 where the cursor exists from the position coordinates of the cursor, and it is determined whether or not the cursor exists in the menu window 2 of any processing phase.

  When it is determined that the menu window 2 does not exist, the item data movement module uses the function of moving the work item recorded in the use user ID of the item data indicating the user in use. The recording of the user ID of the selected user is canceled, and the function of the item data movement module is terminated.

  When it is determined that the menu window 2 exists, the process ID corresponding to the menu window 2 where the start point of the cursor in the drag operation exists and the phase ID of the process phase corresponding to the menu window 2 where the end point exists are With reference to the start point phase ID and end point phase ID of the bridge table, an attempt is made to acquire the bridge ID of the bridge 3 that connects these processing phases.

  When the bridge ID cannot be obtained, that is, when it is determined that there is no bridge 3 that connects these processing phases, the item data movement module sets the use user ID of the item data indicating the user in use. The recording of the user ID of the user who has used the recorded function for moving the work item is canceled, and the function of the item data movement module is terminated.

  When it is determined that the bridge ID can be acquired and there is a bridge 3 that connects those processing phases, the item data movement module further causes the user authentication module to function, and the user authentication screen first displays the user on the user authentication screen. Whether the user whose name and password are keyed has the authority to use the function to move the work item for the bridge 3 that connects the processing phases in which the drag operation is performed, a user authority table, a bridge Check by referring to the table and phase table.

  If it is determined that there is no authority, the item data movement module is the user of the user who has used the function to move the work item recorded in the use user ID of the item data indicating the user in use. The recording of the ID is canceled and the function of the item data movement module is terminated.

  If it is determined that the authority is present, the item data movement module updates the display position of the item ID to the end point position where the work item is dropped, causes the field display module to function, and the field of the database Various types of data are read with reference to the table, phase table, bridge table, and item table, the form of the work flow 1 is read from the database, and the work flow of the display name 4 of the work item corresponding to the item ID is read. The display position in 1 is updated.

  Further, the item data movement module updates the stay start time in the item data of the work item to the current time (date and time) at the time of dropping, and is recorded in the use user ID of the item data indicating the user in use. The recording of the user ID of the user who has requested the function for moving the work item is canceled, and the function of the item data movement module is terminated.

  In the actual work flow 1, when processing is spread from one processing phase (diffusion phase) to a plurality of processing phases, or from a plurality of processing phases spread in this way, it is combined with one processing phase (combination phase) again. If you do. In order to prepare for such a case, the example includes the item diffusion copy module and the diffusion copy item combination module.

  The item diffusion copy module (see FIG. 11) refers to the phase classification of the phase table and determines whether the processing phase corresponding to the menu window 2 including the starting point of the drag operation is the processing phase (diffusion phase) of the diffusion source. Determine whether or not. If it is not the diffusion phase, the function of the item diffusion copy module is terminated.

  On the other hand, in the diffusion phase, the item diffusion copy module executes a processing phase (end point phase) corresponding to the menu window 2 located on the front side of the bridge 3 starting from the menu window 2 including the starting point of the drag operation. ), The item ID of the work item that is the target of the drag operation is copied to the family ID of the item data in the item table, and the number of processing phases to be diffused from the diffusion phase is set to the item data Family member number of the item data. Is set to “1”.

  Furthermore, the item diffusion copy module stores the item data updated as described above in the item table, and updates the display name rectangular area coordinates in the item data to the position of the menu window 2 in the end point phase.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the phase ID has already been acquired for all the end point phases, and if the phase ID has already been acquired, the function of the item diffusion copy module is terminated.

  On the other hand, if there is an end point phase that has not been acquired as compared with the number of processing phases to be diffused, the item diffusion copy module determines the family member No. of the item data stored previously. And the display name rectangular area coordinates in the item data are updated as the position of the menu window 2 in the other end phase, and are added to the item table as new item data.

  These processes are repeated until the item data is copied for all end phases, and the item diffusion copy module causes the field display module to function, and the display name rectangular area of each item data updated and copied. The work flow 1 reflecting the coordinates is displayed on the display device.

  The diffusion copy item combining module (see FIG. 12) refers to the phase classification of the phase table, and the processing phase (combining phase) in which the processing phase corresponding to the menu window 2 including the end point of the drag operation is determined as the combining destination. ). If it is not in the combining phase, the function of the diffusion copy item combining module is terminated.

  On the other hand, if it is in the merging phase, the diffusion copy item merging module refers to the item table, acquires the item ID of the work item that is the target of the drag operation, and among the work items in the merging phase, Get work items with the same family ID. Then, it is determined whether or not the number of work items having the same family ID is the same as the number of family members recorded in the item data of the work items.

  If they are not the same, the diffusion copy item combination module stops its function, and if they are the same, the diffusion copy item combination module leaves the work item that is the target of the drag operation, The item data of other work items having the same family ID is deleted and the function is terminated.

  The field display module causes the work time management module to function each time it receives an event that occurs when displaying the work flow 1 according to the function of another processing module as described above, or a timer event that occurs at a certain time ( (See FIG. 22).

The work time management module acquires the field ID of the displayed field, acquires the residence limit time for each processing phase included in the field with reference to each phase data, and exists in each processing phase When the completion deadline of each work item is obtained by referring to each item data, it is determined whether or not the current time (date and time) has reached the completion deadline of each work item. The field display module is urged to output the display name of the work item in a warning color such as red.

  On the other hand, if the completion deadline has not been reached, the retention start time of the work item is acquired with reference to the item data, and the current time reaches the date and time when the retention time limit is added to the retention start time. It is determined whether or not. As a result, when it is determined that the work item has been reached, the display name of the work item is output in a caution color such as blue, and when it is determined that it has not been reached, the work item is displayed in a normal color such as black. The field display module is urged to output the display name.

  Efficient and uncomplicated schedule management system and process management system not only for processing items concentrated in local areas such as offices, but also for processing items distributed in global areas using information networks It contributes to providing information management systems such as various fields.

It is a block diagram which shows an example of the function which the information processing apparatus by this invention comprises, and the function of the computer by an information processing program. It is a block diagram which shows an example of the hardware constitutions which implement | achieve the information processing apparatus and information processing program by this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the main data used with the information processing apparatus and information processing program by this invention. (A): an example of phase classification included in phase data, and (B): authority No. included in user data used in the information processing apparatus and information processing program according to the present invention. It is a table | surface which shows an example. It is explanatory drawing which illustrated the relationship between the various modules and the various data which the information processing apparatus and information processing program by this invention comprise. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the process performed with the information processing apparatus by this invention, and an information processing program. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the process performed with the information processing apparatus by this invention, and an information processing program. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the process performed with the information processing apparatus by this invention, and an information processing program. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the process performed with the information processing apparatus by this invention, and an information processing program. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the process performed with the information processing apparatus by this invention, and an information processing program. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the process performed with the information processing apparatus by this invention, and an information processing program. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the process performed with the information processing apparatus by this invention, and an information processing program. It is an example of the input assistance image output with the information processing program and information processing apparatus by this invention. It is an example of the input assistance image output with the information processing program and information processing apparatus by this invention. It is an example of the input assistance image output with the information processing program and information processing apparatus by this invention. It is an example of the input assistance image output with the information processing program and information processing apparatus by this invention. It is an example of the input assistance image output with the information processing program and information processing apparatus by this invention. It is an example of the input assistance image output with the information processing program and information processing apparatus by this invention. It is an example of the input assistance image output with the information processing program and information processing apparatus by this invention. It is an example of the input assistance image output with the information processing program and information processing apparatus by this invention. It is an example of the input assistance image output with the information processing program and information processing apparatus by this invention. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the process performed with the information processing program and information processing apparatus by this invention.

Explanation of symbols

1 work flow,
2 Menu window,
3 bridge, 4 display name,

Claims (5)

Phase data including a name and phase ID for specifying a processing phase, rectangular coordinates, and a processing program name activated by a click operation or a drop operation;
Bridge data including a bridge ID for specifying a bridge and start / end coordinates,
Provided with a database recording item data including display name and item ID for specifying a work item, and display name rectangular area coordinates,

As a work flow,
A menu window for each processing phase determined by the rectangular coordinates included in the phase data is displayed together with the name included in the phase data,
Displays the bridge between each menu window determined by the start point and end point coordinates included in the bridge data,
Provided with a field display module that displays the display name of the work item in the menu window of the processing phase determined by the display area rectangular area coordinates included in the item data,

Means for detecting the position coordinates of the cursor when a click operation or a drop operation is performed;
Means for obtaining the phase ID of the processing phase in which the cursor exists from the position coordinates of the cursor in light of the rectangular coordinates included in the phase data of each processing phase;
Means for acquiring the item ID of the work item displayed in the display name rectangular area where the cursor exists from the coordinates of the cursor in light of the display name rectangular area coordinates of the item data;
An information processing apparatus comprising a processing program starting module comprising means for starting a processing program having a processing program name of phase data specified by an acquired phase ID for a work item specified by the acquired item ID. User data including a user ID for identifying the user;
Bridge data including a start phase ID and an end phase ID;
A database in which user authority data including phase ID or bridge ID, user ID, and authority content of the user is recorded,

For a user who performed a drag and drop operation on the display name of the work item displayed in the work flow, the work item with the display name is moved along the root of the bridge that connects the processing phases in which the user performed the drag and drop operation. A user authentication module that determines whether or not the user has the authority to use the function based on the user authority data, the bridge data, and the phase data;

Means for detecting a position coordinate of a cursor corresponding to a starting point of the drag and drop at the time of the mouse down operation of the drag and drop operation;
Means for determining whether or not the cursor exists in the area of the menu window of any processing phase from the position coordinates of the cursor in light of the rectangular coordinates of the phase data;
Means for stopping the function of this module when it is determined that the cursor does not exist in the area of the menu window;
Means for acquiring a phase ID of a processing phase in which the cursor exists when it is determined that the cursor exists in an area of the menu window;
Means for determining whether the cursor exists in the display name rectangular area of any work item from the coordinates of the cursor in light of the display name rectangular area coordinates of the item data;
Means for stopping the function of this module when it is determined that the cursor does not exist in the display name rectangular area;
Means for acquiring the item ID of the work item whose display name is displayed in the display name rectangular area where the cursor exists when it is determined that the cursor exists in the display name rectangular area;
Means for determining whether or not another user is currently using the work item specified by the item ID with reference to the use user ID of the item data;
Means for stopping the function of this module when it is determined that another user is in use;
When it is determined that another user is not using it, the user ID of the item data is updated to the user ID of the user who intends to move the work item, and the processing phase is the starting point of the drag and drop Means for storing in the storage area the phase ID and the item ID of the work item to be moved;
Means for confirming whether or not the item ID of the work item to be moved at the time of the drag and drop operation is held in the storage area;
Means to terminate the function of this module if not,
Means for causing the field display module to function when it is held and updating the display position of the display name of the work item having the item ID as an identifier;
Means for confirming whether or not the item ID of the work item to be dragged and dropped at the time of the mouse up operation of the drag and drop operation is held in the storage area;
Means for terminating the function of this module when the item ID of the work item to be dragged and dropped is not held in the storage area;
Means for detecting a position coordinate of a cursor corresponding to an end point of a drag-and-drop operation when an item ID of a work item to be moved is held in the storage area;
Means for determining whether or not the cursor exists in the menu window area of any of the processing phases from the position coordinates of the cursor corresponding to the end point of the drag and drop in light of the rectangular coordinates of the phase data;
Means for canceling the recording of the user ID of the user who has used the function of moving the work item recorded in the use user ID of the item data when it is determined that it does not exist in the area, and ends the function of this module;
Means for obtaining the phase ID of the processing phase in which the cursor exists from the position coordinates of the cursor corresponding to the end point of the drag and drop when it is determined that the cursor exists in the area;
The processing phases are linked from the phase IDs of the processing phase corresponding to the menu window where the starting point of the drag-and-drop exists and the processing phase corresponding to the menu window where the end point exists in light of the start point phase ID and end point phase ID of the bridge data. Means for determining whether a bridge exists;
Means for canceling the recording of the user ID of the user who has used the function of moving the work item recorded in the use user ID of the item data when there is no bridge connecting those processing phases; and
Means for acquiring the bridge ID of the bridge when there is a bridge connecting the processing phases and causing the user authentication module to function;
Means for canceling the recording of the user ID of the user who has used the function of moving the work item recorded in the use user ID of the item data when the user authentication module determines that there is no authority;
Means for updating the display item rectangular area coordinates of the work item corresponding to the item ID on the end point phase when the user authentication module determines that the authority is present;
Means for causing the field display module to function and updating the display position of the display name of the work item corresponding to the item ID in the work flow;
The item data moving module according to claim 1, further comprising an item data moving module comprising means for canceling the recording of the user ID of the user who has used the function of moving the work item recorded in the user ID of use of the item data and ending the function. Information processing device. Phase data including phase classification indicating the presence or absence of diffusion and combination starting from the processing phase;
The family ID of the processing phase to be diffused and combined starting from the spreading phase, the number of processing phases to be spread from the spreading phase, and the family member No. It has a database that records item data including

Means for determining whether the processing phase of the menu window including the start point of the drag and drop is a diffusion phase in light of the phase classification of the phase data;
Means to terminate the function of this module when not in the spreading phase;
Means for acquiring the phase ID of the end point phase of the bridge with the menu window including the start point of the drag and drop as the start phase in the case of the diffusion phase;
The item ID of the work item and the number of processing phases to be spread are copied as the family ID and the number of family members of the item data of the work item to be dragged and dropped, and the family member No. of the item data is copied. Means for storing item data updated as “1”,
Means for updating the display name rectangular area coordinates in the item data to the position of the menu window in the end phase;
Means for determining whether or not a phase ID has been acquired for all of the end-point phases having the same start-point phase;
Means to terminate the function of this module if all have been acquired;
If there is an end point phase that has not been acquired, the family member No. Means for updating the display name rectangular area coordinates in the item data as the position of the menu window of the remaining end point phase and repeating the process of adding as new item data until all end point phases are completed,
An item diffusion copy module comprising means for displaying the work flow reflecting the display name rectangular area coordinates of each item data updated and added, causing the field display module to function,

Means for determining whether the processing phase of the menu window including the end point of the drag and drop is a combined phase in light of the phase classification of the phase data;
Means for terminating the function of this module if not in the combined phase;
Means for acquiring the item ID of the work item that is the target of the drag and drop operation in the case of the combined phase in the light of the item data;
Means for obtaining work items having the same family ID from work items in the combined phase;
Means for determining whether the number of work items having the same family ID is the same as the number of family members recorded in the item data of those work items;
Means to stop this module from functioning if they are not the same,
A diffusion copy comprising means for ending the function of this module by deleting the item data of other work items having a common family ID while leaving the work item that is the target of the drag & drop operation when they are the same The information processing apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising an item combination module. A database in which item data including a use user ID indicating a user in use is recorded;
Means for determining whether or not another user is using the user ID of the item data;
Means for terminating the function of this module if another user determines that it is in use;
Means for updating the use user ID of the item data as the user ID of the user requesting the function to edit the work item when it is determined that another user is not using, and causing the processing program activation module to function;
The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising an item data creation / editing module that cancels the recording of the user ID used for the item data and terminates the function of the module when the processing program ends normally. Phase data including residence time limit,
It has a database that records item data including completion deadline and residence start time,
Means for acquiring the residence time limit for each processing phase belonging to the displayed field from each phase data;
Means for obtaining the completion deadline of each work item existing in each processing phase from each item data;
Means for determining whether the current time has reached the completion deadline of each work item;
Means for acquiring the residence start time of each work item from each item data when the completion deadline has not been reached;
A work time management module comprising means for determining whether or not the current time has reached the date and time when the stay limit time is added to the stay start time of the work item,
When the work item has reached the completion deadline, the display name is output in warning color,
When it is determined that the current time has reached the date and time when the stay limit time is added to the stay start time of the work item, the display name is output in a caution color,
5. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: the field display module that outputs a display name in a normal color when it is determined that the work item has not reached the residence time limit.