WO2011031522A2 - Systems and methods for displaying input worksheets - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention provides systems and methods of time period comparison. A user interface, which may be a part of a payroll or human capital management application or software, may be provided which may display payroll items, along with values for the payroll items during a first time period and second time period, as well as the differences in the values for the payroll items between the first and second time periods. A user may select one or more time periods or bases of comparison to be compared and a user interface may display values relating to the time periods accordingly.

Description

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DISPLAYING INPUT WORKSHEETS

CROSS-REFERENCE

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/241,379, filed September 10, 2009, which application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Every employer is faced with the regular generation of payroll for its employees. Initially, payroll processing was an arduous manual task, requiring the responsible individual to compute the base pay, applicable taxes, and other deductions for each of the employer's employees. Initially, these calculations were performed by hand. Over time, automated systems have been developed to calculate pay, produce payroll checks, and even to make the automatic payroll deposits into an employee's bank account for employees participating in a direct deposit program. Automated systems have also been developed to deal with overall human capital management.

[0003] Prior payroll automation and human capital management systems generally provided an employer with the ability to input payroll or other human capital management in a myriad of different manners. Such automation systems also permitted a user to navigate between pages to enter various payroll or human capital management data items. However, such automation systems provided a user display of payroll or other human capital management information that required users to navigate between pages or interact with additional screens or interfaces when entering various types of information. Such payroll systems failed to allow a user access to enter data within a single data entry interface.

[0004] There is a need for improved systems and methods for displaying input worksheets, especially for data including payroll or human capital management data, in a visual manner that can better provide a quick access interface that may allow a user to enter different kinds of data.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] The invention provides systems and methods for displaying input worksheets, such as user interfaces to enter payroll or human capital management data. Various aspects of the invention described herein may be applied to any of the particular applications set forth below or for any other types of user interfaces and displays. The invention may be applied as a standalone system or method, or as part of an integrated software package, such as a payroll software or application. It shall be understood that different aspects of the invention can be appreciated individually, collectively, or in combination with each other.

[0006] One aspect of the invention provides for a system for human capital management. The system may include a user-interactive display device. In some instances, the user-interactive display device may communicate with a server over a network. The system may also include a data entry page displayed on the user-interactive display device. The data entry page may show a plurality of human capital management data entry panels. A human capital management data panel may be a fully viewable human capital management data item with a plurality of accordion panes. An accordion pane may be arranged so that at least one selected accordion pane is fully viewable and at least one non-selected accordion pane is selectable but not fully viewable. In some instances human capital management data panels may be arranged with a first orientation, and accordion panes may be arranged to have the same or different orientation as the human capital management data panels. This may allow for a visual logical organization of data that a user may access from a single screen.

[0007] Another aspect of the invention provides for a graphical user interface on a display. For example, the implementation of software may include a client computer comprising a video display, with at least one display page comprising data. The data may include payroll software data. The user interface may be provided for data entry of human capital management data. The user interface may include a plurality of human capital management data entry panels displayed adjacent to one another. At least one of the human capital management data entry panels may be fully viewable. The fully viewable panel may have a multiple data entry field, wherein the multiple data entry field is configured to accept and/or modify multiple types of data. A

Silverlight application (or comparable application) may be used to allow the multiple data entry field to accept and/or modify multiple types of data.

Another aspect of the invention may provide a method for entering and/or modifying human capital management data. The method may include having a user accessing a graphical user interface as discussed elsewhere herein. While using the graphical user interface, the user does not have to navigate away from the graphical user interface while entering and/or modifying the human capital management data. Thus, a user may be able to enter or modify human capital management data for a particular system from a single screen.

[0008] A system for human capital management may be provided in accordance with another aspect of the invention. The system may include a user-interactive display device. The system may also include a control comparison page displayed on the user-interactive display device. The control comparison page may display at least one human capital management item, at least one control value for the human capital management item, at least one worksheet value for the human capital management item, and at least one difference value between the at least one control value and the at least one worksheet value. The human capital management item, the at least one control value, the at least one worksheet value, and the at least one difference value may be visually mapped to one another. For example, they may be visually mapped to one another so that they are in the same row, column, or region. The system may also include a control marker indicating whether the difference value falls within a predetermined range.

[0009] Other goals and advantages of the invention will be further appreciated and understood when considered in conjunction with the following description and accompanying drawings. While the following description may contain specific details describing particular embodiments of the invention, this should not be construed as limitations to the scope of the invention but rather as an exemplification of preferable embodiments. For each aspect of the invention, many variations are possible as suggested herein that are known to those of ordinary skill in the art. A variety of changes and modifications can be made within the scope of the invention without departing from the spirit thereof.

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

[0010] All publications, patents, and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent, or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] The novel features of the invention are set forth with particularity in the appended claims. A better understanding of the features and advantages of the present invention will be obtained by reference to the following detailed description that sets forth illustrative

embodiments, in which the principles of the invention are utilized, and the accompanying drawings of which:

[0012] FIG. 1 shows a system with client computers interacting with a server over a network.

[0013] FIG. 2A shows a user interface that may assist with navigating an application.]

[0014] FIG. 2B shows another example of a navigation interface.

[0015] FIG. 2C provide an additional example of tabs and subtabs used for navigation.

[0016] FIG. 3 shows an additional view of tabs and subtabs with overlying panels

[0017] FIG. 4 shows another example of a navigation bar that may include one or more tab.

[0018] FIG. 5 provides another example of a navigation bar which may have an overlay panel. [0019] FIG. 6 shows an example of a data entry user interface.

[0020] FIG. 7 provides an example of a plurality of accordion fields.

[0021] FIG. 8 shows an additional example of a set of accordion trays.

[0022] FIG. 9 shows an example of a help screen.

[0023] FIG. 10 shows an example of various accordion fields.

[0024] FIG. 11 illustrates functions that may be provided by a special tray.

[0025] FIG. 12 shows examples of special tray panels.

[0026] FIG. 13 shows a worksheet that may be configured to accept user input.

[0027] FIG. 14 shows an example of a worksheet for entering or modifying human capital management data.

[0028] FIG. 15 shows a user interface with a composite cell in accordance with another aspect of the invention.

[0029] FIG. 16 shows an example of a user interface that may be displayed as part of a control comparison page.

[0030] FIG. 17 shows a comparison user interface.

[0031] FIG. 18 shows an example of visual cues that may be associated with control tools.

[0032] FIG. 19 provides additional examples of visual cues for control tools.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0033] While preferred embodiments of the invention have been shown and described herein, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that such embodiments are provided by way of example only. Numerous variations, changes, and substitutions will now occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the invention. It should be understood that various alternatives to the embodiments of the invention described herein may be employed in practicing the invention.

[0034] A user interface provided in accordance with the invention herein may be displayed across a network such as the Internet. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, an implementation may include a client computer 100a, 100b, 100c, or other client device, comprising a video display with at least one display page comprising data. The data may include human capital

management data, which may include data such as payroll data (including items such as wage compensation and benefits), workforce planning, recruitment, induction/orientation, skills management, training and development, personnel administration, time management, travel management, personnel cost planning, or performance appraisal. Human capital management data may include data that can be person and time dependent. Human capital management may be heterogeneous across different businesses and a human capital management outsourcing software may advantageously display human capital management data. Any discussion herein relating to payroll data may be applied to human capital management data, and vice versa.

Furthermore, any discussion herein may also be applied to the comparison of any other types of data. Payroll and human capital management data may optionally tie into physical paychecks or financial documents.

[0035] Video displays may include devices upon which information may be displayed in a manner perceptible to a user, such as, for example, a computer monitor, cathode ray tube, liquid crystal display, light emitting diode display, touchpad or touchscreen display, and/or other means known in the art for emitting a visually perceptible output. Video displays may be electronically connected to a client computer according to hardware and software known in the art.

[0036] In one implementation of the invention, a display page may include a computer file 102 residing in memory which may be transmitted from a server 104 over a network 106 to a client computer 100a, which can store it in memory. A client computer may receive non- transitory computer readable media, which may contain instructions, logic, data, or code that may be stored in persistent or temporary memory of the client computer, or may somehow affect or initiate action by a client computer. Similarly, one or more servers may communicate with one or more client computers or other devices across a network, and may transmit computer files residing in memory. The network, for example, can include the Internet or any network for connecting one or more clients to one or more servers. Any communications may occur over a wired connection or wirelessly.

[0037] Any discussion of a client computer or device may also apply to any type of networked device, including but not limited to a personal computer, server computer, or laptop computer; personal digital assistants (PDAs) such as a Palm-based device or Windows CE device; phones such as cellular phones, smartphones, or location-aware portable phones (such as GPS); a roaming device, such as a network-connected roaming device; a wireless device such as a wireless email device or other device capable of communicating wireless with a computer network; or any other type of network device that may communicate over a network and handle electronic transactions. Any discussion of any device mentioned may also apply to other devices.

[0038] At a client computer or any other client device, the display page may be interpreted by software residing in memory of the client computer, causing the computer file to be displayed on a video display in a manner perceivable by a user. The display pages described herein may be created using a software language known in the art such as, for example, the hypertext mark up language ("HTML"), the dynamic hypertext mark up language ("DHTML"), the extensible hypertext mark up language ("XHTML"), the extensible mark up language ("XML"), or another software language that may be used to create a computer file displayable on a video display in a manner perceivable by a user. Any computer readable media with logic, code, data, instructions, may be used to implement any software or steps or methodology. Where a network comprises the Internet, a display page may comprise a webpage of a type known in the art. The display page may be accessed remotely over the Internet or locally from software residing in local memory.

[0039] A display page according to the invention may include embedded functions comprising software programs stored on a memory device, such as, for example, VBScript routines, JScript routines, JavaScript routines, Java applets, ActiveX components, ASP.NET, AJAX, Flash applets, Silverlight applets, or AIR routines.

[0040] A display page may comprise well known features of graphical user interface technology, such as, for example, frames, windows, scroll bars, buttons, icons, and hyperlinks, and well known features such as a "point and click" interface. Pointing to and clicking on a graphical user interface button, icon, menu option, or hyperlink also is known as "selecting" the button, option, or hyperlink. Additionally, a "point and gesture" interface may be utilized, such as a hand driven interface. In some embodiments, a touchscreen interface may be provided. Any other interface for interacting with a graphical user interface may be utilized. A display page according to the invention also may incorporate multimedia features.

[0041] A user interface may be displayed on a video display and/or display page. A server and/or client computer may have access to human capital management or payroll software. A user interface may be used to display or provide access to human capital management or payroll data. For example, a user interface may be provided for a web page or for an application. An application may be accessed remotely or locally.

[0042] Any of the client or server devices described may have tangible computer readable media with logic, code, or instructions for performing any actions described herein or running any algorithm. The devices with such computer readable media may be specially programmed to perform the actions dictated by the computer readable media. In some embodiments, the devices may be specially programmed to perform one or more tasks relating to payroll or human capital management.

[0043] Overlying Interface

[0044] In accordance with one aspect of the invention, FIG. 2A shows a user interface that may include various tabs and/or subtabs that may assist with navigating an application, such as a payroll application. For example, tabs 200a, 200b may be provided for a more general level of organization, and subtabs 202 may be provided for a particular tab that may be provided for a more specific level of navigation. For example, tabs for a Payroll Desk and Monthly Payroll may be provided, with additional subtabs beneath. The selected tab and/or subtab may be visually emphasized in some manner. For example, visual emphasis may include increased size, bold text, darker outlines, different color, highlighting, moving to the front, or providing a visual indicator (e.g., shape, arrow, icon, etc.). FIG. 2B, FIG. 2C provide additional examples of tabs and subtabs.

[0045] FIG. 2A also shows how selecting a subtab may result in a panel overlaying an existing content on the display page. In some embodiments, selecting a subtab 206 may cause a Silverlight panel 208 (or a panel driven by a similar application) to overlay an underlying main matrix 210. A panel may have any size. For example, the panel 212 may have a smaller size for less interference.

[0046] The user interface may include panes (or panels) providing access to data, such as human capital management data. A pane may include a region of the user interface display. For example, a pane may have a defined geometric shape, such as a rectangle. In another example, a pane may have any defined shape, even if it irregular. A shape may be defined by some sort of visual cue, such as a border or color change. A pane need not have a visual indication of the pane's boundaries. Alternatively, the pane itself may not have a defined shape, but may include a region which may provide access to data relating to a time category.

[0047] A pane may provide access to data in one or more different manners. Providing access to data may include any activity that may lead to creating, using, modifying, or viewing the data. For example, a pane may provide visual access to data by displaying the data within the pane. A pane may also provide access to data by providing a link or button or any other option that may enable a user to see the data in another view. Providing access to data may also include allowing a user to perform a function with the data, such as creating a new data object, editing existing data, or printing an item using the data. The panes do not need to provide access to data in the same manner or format.

[0048] The data may include any data that may relate to human capital management, payroll, or any other type of data as discussed herein. In a preferable embodiment of the invention, the data may include payroll data. Such payroll data may include data pertaining to employees, associated partners, or other pertinent parties. Payroll data may related to information such as payroll liability and payroll progress, such as worksheets for various employee groups, various payroll items and amounts, information on already submitted payroll, whether processing is complete, whether direct deposits or checks were sent, and so forth. The data may also include any other human capital management data.

[0049] In some embodiments, the data may relate to a time period or time category. A given period of time may relate to any length of time, whether the period of time relate to calendar units of time, smaller measurement units of time, or event-driven units of time. In a preferable embodiment of the invention, a given period of time may be a pay period. A pay period in the payroll processing art may be the intervals that employees are paid at, and may usually be chosen by an employer. Commonly, employees may be paid weekly, biweekly, semimonthly, or monthly, although other pay periods are possible. The period of time may be adaptable for any pay period desired by an employer. For example, a period of time could change from a month to a week if an employer were to change monthly pay periods to weekly pay periods. Alternatively a time period of the data need not relate to a pay period.

[0050] In an alternate embodiment, the given period of time may be based on calendar units such as years, months, weeks, days. In another embodiment, the periods of times may be for smaller measurement units of time, such as hours, minutes, seconds, or portions thereof. In other embodiments, periods of time may vary in length and may be an event-driven unit of time, or may occur when an administrator of a system may decide to change the time period, and so forth.

[0051] In some embodiments the data may relate to employees. Human capital management data relating to employees may include, but is not limited to, employee personal information, employee groups, employee payroll, employee hours, employee benefits, employee tax information, employee workers compensation, and so forth.

[0052] FIG. 3 shows an additional view of tabs 300a, 300b, 300c and subtabs 302 with overlying panels. In some embodiments, the user interface may be provided so that when a subtab is selected, an overlying panel 304 is displayed that is connected to the subtab 302. In other embodiments, space may be provided between the subtab 306 and the overlying panel 308. In some instances, the panel may appear centered on the subtab. The panel may be movable relative to the subtab. In some embodiments, the panel's movement may be restricted. For example, the panel may be movable only vertically or only horizontally. In other embodiments, the panel's movements may not be restricted. In some instances, the panel may only move when not connected to the subtab. In other embodiments, the panel may move and remain connected to a subtab. In some embodiments, clicking on or selecting a subtab of an open panel may cause the panel to close. Alternatively, clicking on another subtab may cause the panel to close while opening another. [0053] FIG. 4 shows another example of a navigation bar that may include one or more tab 400a, 400b, 400c. The navigation bar may also include one or more subtab 402. A panel 404 may be provided that may open above an existing screen 406, such as a pre-existing or opened worksheet. Thus a panel may overlay a pre-existing display. The panel may provide access to human capital management data. In some embodiments, a panel may include a worksheet. In some instances, a user may be able to view human capital management content on a worksheet. A user may also be able to interact with a worksheet to enter, modify, or delete data in the worksheet. The panel may allow comparison of columns without repetition.

[0054] FIG. 5 provides another example of a navigation bar 500 which may have an overlay panel 502. The overlay panel may be connected to a tab or subtab 504. The overlay panel may provide access to data, such as human capital management data. In some embodiments, the overlay panel may display data for a user to read. In other embodiments, the overlay panel may accept an input from a user. The overlay panel may cover underlying displays 506. In preferable embodiments, the overlay panel may be opaque and may completely obscure underlying displays. Alternatively, the overlay panel may be slightly transparent so some parts of underlying displays may be visible.

[0055] A user interface may include a navigational bar with tabs and subtabs which may provide a user with access to a worksheet. The worksheet may be configured to accept one or more input from a user. In some instances a worksheet may also include data that has already been stored within the worksheet. A user may be able enter a new data value into the worksheet or modifying an existing value. A user may also be able to delete an existing value in the worksheet. A worksheet may have or be configured to accept human capital management data or any other type of data. For example, a worksheet may accept information about an employee, about payrolls, or any other related information.

[0056] In some embodiments, worksheets may be displayed as an overlay sheet.

Alternatively, a worksheet may be provided in a user interface in any manner. The worksheet may or may not be provided in a panel.

[0057] Accordion Display

[0058] FIG. 6 shows an example of a user interface which may be provided for data entry. The user interface may be part of a worksheet. In some instances, the user interface may be provided for data entry of human capital management data. The user interface may be provided as a data entry page as part of a system for human capital management. The user interface may include one or more data entry panels (e.g., Entry Panel 1, Entry Panel 2, Entry Panel 3, Entry Panel 4). In some embodiments, the data entry panels may be compacted fields or expanded fields. The data entry panels may be adjacent to one another. For example, the data entry panels may form a vertical row or a horizontal row. The data entry panels may form a line that may have any orientation.

[0059] In some embodiments, all, most, or some of the data entry panels may be compacted fields (e.g., FIG. 13 Compacted Field 1, Compacted Field 2, Compacted Field 3, Compacted Field 4). For example, compacted fields may only show a limited amount of information. In one example, compacted fields may show headers for information that may contained with that data entry panel. Alternatively, compacted fields may show some summary information. In preferable embodiments a default view for the user interface may start off with only compacted fields.

[0060] A user may select a data entry panel that is a compacted field to change it into an expanded field. In some embodiments, only one expanded field may be provided at a time. Thus, when a user selects a compacted field, that compacted field becomes an expanded field. If there was another data entry panel that was an expanded field, that panel may automatically collapse into a compacted field. In other embodiments, more than one expanded field may be provided at a time. For example, there may be no limit to the number of expanded fields. Thus, when a user selects a compacted field, the compacted field may become an expanded field, and no matter how many expanded fields are already opened, the expanded fields may stay opened. Selecting an expanded field or a selected region of the expanded field may cause it to collapse back into a compacted field. In some instances, a limited number of data entry panels may be expanded at a time. Thus, when a user selects a compacted field, the compacted field may expand, but if the maximum number of expanded fields had already been reached, the oldest expanded field may collapse into a compacted field.

[0061] In some embodiments, an expanded field may show more information than a compacted field. For example, an expanded field may show additional details relating to the summary information shown by the compacted field. In some instances, the expanded field may also show data that was shown in the compacted field. For example, if a header or summary data were provided in a compacted field, that header or summary data may also be shown in the expanded field. This may or may not have the same or a similar format as to when that information was shown in a compacted field. In some instances, additional details provided in an expanded field may include information shown in one or more accordion fields.

[0062] A data entry panel that is an expanded field may include one, two or more accordion fields (e.g., Accordion Pane 1, Accordion Pane 2, Accordion Pane 3). The accordion fields may be formed of panes. The accordion fields may be stacked so an accordion field may be selected or non-selected. A selected accordion field may be fully viewable while a non-selected accordion field may not be fully viewable. Such accordion fields may be dividers or tabs that are displayed. For example, Accordion Field 1 may be a selected accordion field, while Accordion Field 2 and Accordion Field 3 may be non-selected accordion fields.

[0063] In preferable embodiments, only one accordion field/tab/divider may be selected at a time. Whenever a user clicks on or otherwise selects an accordion field, that accordion field may become the selected accordion field and any previously selected accordion field may become a non-selected accordion field. In some alternate embodiments, more than one accordion field may be selected at a time. A plurality of accordion fields may become fully viewable. The plurality of fully viewable accordion fields may have any orientation with respect to one another.

[0064] FIG. 7 provides an example of a plurality of accordion fields 700a, 700b, 700c. In some embodiments, accordion fields may be aligned that they form a stack so that the selected accordion field 700a is on top. The non-selected accordion fields 700b, 700c may have an edge that may be exposed. In some embodiments, the exposed edges of the non-selected accordion fields may all be on one side of the selected accordion fields. For example, FIG. 7 shows the exposed edges all to the right of the selected accordion field. In another example the exposed edges may all be to the left of the selected accordion field. The order of the edges may be provided so that the underlying accordion panes are provided so that the edges with the closest proximity to the selected accordion field may have been the next most recent selected accordion field, and so forth. Alternatively, the accordion fields may have a fixed order so that the non- selected accordion field edges may be provided in that fixed order.

[0065] In some embodiments, the non-selected accordion fields may or may not be on opposing sides of the selected accordion field. In an example where the accordion fields are spread out horizontally, the opposing sides 800a, 800c may be to the left and right of the selected accordion field 800b. In an example where the accordion fields are spread out vertically, the opposing sides may be to the top and bottom of the selected accordion field. For example, selecting an accordion field may cause the selected accordion field to become fully viewable, but may leave some non-selected accordion fields on one side and some non-selected accordion fields on an opposing side. This may occur in embodiments where the accordion fields may have a fixed order. In such an embodiment, selecting an accordion field may cause it to expand or open up, and may keep the non-selected edges in the order that the accordion fields were provided.

[0066] In some alternate embodiments, accordion fields may be provided so that more than one edge is exposed. For example, two edges may be exposed, so that a non-selected accordion field may show an exposed corner when the accordion fields form a stack with a slightly diagonal orientation. In other alternate embodiments, the accordion fields may include tabs, so that the stack may include tabbed portions.

[0067] In some instances, the exposed edges of the non-selected accordion fields may have substantially the same dimensions. In some instances, if an item is somehow pending or an alert is being provided, the exposed edge of that accordion field may be visually emphasized. For example, an edge may be visually emphasized by being larger, having a different color, or having some sort of symbol or other indicator drawing the user's attention to that accordion field.

[0068] Data entry panels may be provided so that they form a linear arrangement. For example, data entry panels may be provided to have a vertical orientation (e.g., as provided in FIG. 6). Alternatively, the data entry panels may have a horizontal orientation. The accordion fields may be provided so that they also have a linear orientation. For example, the accordion fields may have a horizontal orientation (e.g., as provided in FIG. 6). In another example, the accordion fields may have a vertical orientation. In other embodiments, the accordion fields may have another orientation (e.g., when forming a diagonal stack). In some instances, even when accordion fields has another orientation (e.g., somewhat diagonal), the accordion fields may have a substantially horizontal or vertical orientation (e.g., although somewhat diagonal, it is mostly oriented horizontally or vertically).

[0069] In preferable embodiments, the data panel orientation and the accordion field orientations may be perpendicular to one another (e.g., the data panels may be arranged vertically while the accordion fields may be arranged horizontally). Thus, there may be a multidirectional movement for different levels of detail. In another example, the data panel orientation and the accordion field orientations need not be perpendicular to one another, but they may have different orientations (e.g., at any angle, e.g. 15 degrees, 30 degrees, 45 degrees). Alternatively, they may have the same orientation as one another (e.g., they may both expand vertically or both expand horizontally). For example, the data panels may be organized by more general information, while the accordion fields may relate to more specific information. The accordion fields may contain specific data that relate particularly to the information provided in that expanded data panel.

[0070] In alternate embodiments of the invention, additional accordion sub-panels may be visible within a selected accordion panel. The sub-panels may have any orientation. In some embodiments, orientation of the sub-panels may be the same as the orientation of the accordion panels. In other embodiments they may be perpendicular to the orientation of the accordion panels. Thus, an additional level of drilling down may be provided. In some embodiments, additional drill down levels may be provided. Any of the drill down levels may be formed of accordion panels that may have any orientation with respect to the previous level.

[0071] In some embodiments, data panels may include various information objects. The information objects across various data panels may be visually associated or mapped to one another. A first object may be visually mapped to a second object if they are somehow visually aligned or correspond, or show a relationship between the first and second object. For instance, one example of visual mapping between a plurality of objects may occur when the plurality of objects are in the same row or column (e.g., given an x-y coordinate system, a plurality of objects may be visually mapped if they share the same x-coordinate while the y-coordinate may vary, or if they share the same y-coordinate while the x-coordinate may vary). For example, if data panels are arranged vertically, they may include information such as an employee ID. The employee IDs for each of the data panels may be placed at the same horizontal location along the data panels, so that a column of employee IDs are formed, and they are visually mapped to one another. Similarly, the employee summary data may all be contained within a row that is forming the data panel, so that the summary data pertaining to a particular employee is visually mapped to one another.

[0072] In one embodiment, data panel entries may be provided for employees or other individuals. Each data entry panel may have information relating to the specific employee. When a data panel is compacted, it may only show general summary information about the employee. Some examples of summary data may include the number of the employee on the list, an employee identification number, employee name, the type of employee, and the number of hours the employee works. When a data panel is expanded it may show additional information about the employee. Accordion panels may be provided within the data panel. Each accordion panel may provide further subcategories of information relating to that particular employee. For example, one accordion panel may include personal information about the employee, another may include tax calculations for the employee, another may include block deposits for that employee, and so forth.

[0073] A user may or may not be able to enter/modify/delete data within a compacted field. In some instances, a user interactive interface may be provided in a compacted field that may allow a user to modify the summary data displayed. Modifying the summary data may cause corresponding changes in specific data that may depend on the summary data modified. In some embodiments, a user may be able to enter/modify/delete data provided in one or more accordion field. Similarly, modifying a value in an accordion field may cause any necessary changes to any other data depending on that changed value, whether those changes appear in the summary data sections, or within the same accordion field, or within another accordion field.

[0074] This may enable user to access the necessary data relating to a particular employee without having to navigate away from the page. Thus, a user may access a list of employees, expand it in a first direction (e.g., vertically to make a compacted field into an expanded field) and then expand it in a second direction (e.g., horizontally to access various accordion fields) to access information of greater specificity.

[0075] FIG. 8 shows an additional example of a set of accordion trays. As discussed previously, in some embodiments, non-selected accordion trays 800a, 800c may be provided on two opposing sides of a selected accordion tray 800b. The position of the accordion trays may be fixed so that their content remains within the same order. When a user selects a particular accordion tray, that tray may remain in the same place but may expand from the position that it is in, so that it may be on the right, left, or middle (or alternatively top, bottom, or middle). The selected accordion tray may display data and/or may include a user interactive interface that may enable a user to enter/modify/delete information. The data displayed may be human capital management data.

[0076] In some embodiments, the accordion tray may include functionality that may allow a user to scroll within the accordion tray or adjust what is being viewed. For example, a user may be able to move contents of an accordion tray up and down within the accordion tray without actually moving the tray itself.

[0077] In some instances, additional functions may be provided on the selected accordion tray. For example, a help button 802 may be provided. Selecting a help button may cause additional information to be displayed to the user. In some instances, the help screen may be provided as a popup that may overlay part of the existing display. In another embodiment, it may cause an additional screen to be opened.

[0078] FIG. 9 shows an example of a help screen 900 that may be provided. For example, a user interface may be provided showing the compacted fields 902a, 902b and an expanded field 904. The compacted fields may appear as a list. The compacted fields may include various information. In some embodiments, this may give the interface the appearance of a chart. An expanded field may also be provided with one or more accordion fields. The accordion field may include a 'help' button 906.

[0079] The help screen may overlay the underlying screen content so that the help screen is over the compacted and expanded data entry fields. In some embodiments, the help screen may be placed along a side of the video display, such as a right side, left side, top, or bottom of the video display. Alternatively, it may appear in the middle, or any other location on the screen. In some instances, the help screen may slide up or down as a user scrolls up and down the display. Thus, the underlying content may be moving up and down as the user scrolls up and down, but the help screen may remain at substantially the same height. In some embodiments, the user may move the help screen to the right or left.

[0080] In another example, a close button may be provided on a selected accordion tray. If a user selects the close button, it may cause the selected accordion tray to become non-selected. This may or may not cause another accordion tray (such as a default accordion tray) to become selected. In another embodiment, selecting a close button may cause the expanded data panel to become a compacted data panel.

[0081] In some embodiments, an expanded data panel may include a region that a user may select to collapse the expanded data panel into a compacted data panel. Alternatively, selecting any portion of the summary info of the expanded data panel may cause it to collapse. Similarly, in some instances, a user may expand a collapsed data panel by selecting a particular region (e.g., a button or zone) of the collapsed data panel. Alternatively, selecting any portion of the compacted data panel may cause it to expand.

[0082] FIG. 10 shows an example of various accordion fields. In some embodiments, moving a pointer, such as a mouse cursor 1000, over a particular accordion field 1002 may cause information 1004 about the accordion field to be displayed. For example, when the pointer is over an edge of a non-selected accordion field, a popup may appear with the name of the non- selected accordion field (e.g., Block Deposits). In some embodiments, little or no information about the non-selected accordion field may normally be visible, so the popup may assist with identifying the non-selected accordion field. In other embodiments, other information associated with the non-selected accordion field may be displayed.

[0083] In some embodiments, an expanded data entry panel may include a special tray that may include various functions. FIG. 11 shows some examples of functions that may be provided by the special tray 1100. The special tray may be located anywhere on an expanded data entry panel. In some instances, it may be adjacent to a stack of accordion fields 1102a, 1102b. For example, the special tray may be provided on the left or the right side of the expanded data entry panel. Alternatively, the special tray may be on the top or bottom portion of the expanded data entry panel.

[0084] Some examples of functions provided in the special tray may include a calculate function, an info function, a new function, and a remove function. One or more of these functions may cause a quick tray 1104 to be opened over all of the accordion fields. The tray may move inwards over the fields. In some instances, the tray may move out of the special tray area. For example, if the special tray is on the left, selecting an info function may cause a quick info tray to move from the special tray on the left rightwards over the accordion fields. Selecting a new function may cause a mini form to move over the existing fields. Selecting a remove function may also cause a mini confirmation form to move over the exiting fields.

[0085] FIG. 12 shows examples of special tray panels 1200a, 1200b, 1200c. In some embodiments, selecting an icon from the special tray may cause a corresponding tray to open. In another embodiment, a drop down menu 1202 may be used. For instance, an info function from a tray panel may cause a corresponding tray to open. The info tray may include information such as status, cost center, or length of service. The info tray may include a region or button that may cause the tray to be closed. In some instances, if the tray is already open, selecting the info icon again may also cause the tray to close. In other examples, if the tray is already open, selecting another icon may cause the info tray to close and the other tray to open.

[0086] Selecting a new check icon may cause a new check tray to open. The new check tray may include user interactive interfaces which may allow a user to enter/modify/delete data. For example, a user may select a type of new check to enter for an employee. The new check type may be selected from a drop down list. Other interactive devices, such as buttons (e.g., add new check, cancel) may be provided.

[0087] Selecting a remove check icon may cause a remove check tray to open. The remove check tray may require confirmation that the user wishes to remove the check from the worksheet and discard associated data. A user interactive interface may be provided (e.g., button to confirm removal, or a button to cancel removal).

[0088] Multiple-Type Data Entry

[0089] FIG. 13 shows a user interface that may show an example of a worksheet that may be configured to accept user input. The worksheet may show one or more entry regions or panes. The entries may be displayed as compacted entries or expanded entries. In some embodiments, an expanded entry may be a fully viewable entry pane. In some embodiments, a compacted pane may not be a fully viewable entry pane. For example, a compacted entry may only show summary content. The content shown in the worksheet may relate to human capital management data. Thus, each of the entry panes may be human capital management data entry panels.

[0090] In some embodiments, when a worksheet is first accessed, the default may be that the entries are all compacted entries. A user may select a compacted entry (e.g., clicking on the compacted entry, a designated region of the entry, or some other feature) in order to expand the entry. Also, a user may select an expanded entry in order to collapse the entry into a compacted entry. In some embodiments, only one expanded entry may be viewable at a time. Alternatively, a limited number of expanded entries, or an unlimited number of expanded entries may be viewable simultaneously. Any discussion relating to compacted and expanded entries with respect to other embodiments discussed herein may also be applied.

[0091] Preferably, a plurality of data entry panes may be provided and may be adjacent to one another. The entry panes may be arranged in a linear manner. For example, they may be provided as a vertical list, or they may be provided in a horizontal format. An entry pane may be a row on a vertical list, or a column in a horizontal format. Preferably, a plurality of data entry panes may be provided

[0092] The worksheet may also include one or more data header. The data headers may be visually mapped to content within the entries. For examples, if data headers are spaced horizontally across the worksheet, entry panes may have content so that the entry pane content within the vertical columns corresponding to each data header may correspond to the type of data denoted by the data header. For example, as shown in FIG. 13, under Data Header 1, content corresponding to Data Header 1 may be entered in the compacted entries, and Expanded Entry 1 and 2 in a column under Data Header 1. This may also apply to other orientations. For example, if data headers are arranged vertically along the worksheet and entry panes are arranged horizontally, content corresponding to particular data content may be within a horizontal row with the corresponding data header and within the corresponding entry pane.

[0093] A user may be able to view data provided in an entry pane. In some embodiments, a user may be able to interact with (e.g., edit/modify/delete) content within an entry pane. An entry pane may include one or more data entry fields. A data entry field may be any user interactive interface, where a user may edit/modify/delete the content within the data entry field. In some instances, one or a plurality of data entry fields may be provided within an entry pane. A data entry field may be a single data entry field, which may be configured to accept a single type of data. A data entry field may alternatively be a multiple data entry field, which may be configured to accept multiple types of data. For instance, a multiple data entry field may be configured to accept numbers, text, symbols, and/or formulas, all within the multiple data entry field. In some embodiments, a Silverlight application (or any other comparable application) may be used to allow the multiple data entry field to accept and/or modify multiple types of data.

[0094] In some embodiments, a multiple data entry field may have one or more subfields (e.g., Data Field 1, Data Field 2, Data Field 3, Data Field 4 may form subfields of a first multiple data entry field, and Data Field 5, Data Field 6, Data Field 7, Data Field 8 may form subfields of a second multiple data entry field). In some instances, the various subfields of the multiple data entry field may accept different types of data (or the same type of data) as one another. In some instances, a subfield itself may be configured to accept more than one type of data.

[0095] FIG. 14 shows an example of a worksheet for entering or modifying human capital management data. The worksheet may include data headers that may relate to particular human capital management items (e.g., ID, Name, Check Type, or Hours). Any other payroll or human capital management data items may be included in a worksheet.

[0096] The worksheet may include data entry panels. In some embodiments, each data entry panel may be related to a particular employee. For example, ID 1, Name 1, Check Type 1, and Hours 1 may show content relating to a first employee. ID 2, Name 2, Check Type 2, and Hours 2 may show content relating to a second employee. Information relating to a particular employee may be visually mapped to one another. For example, as shown in FIG. 14, information relating to each employee may be provided within the same row. Furthermore, information relating to a particular data header may also be visually mapped to one another. For example, information relating to ID may be provided within the same column (e.g., ID 1, ID 2, ID 3, ID 4, etc.), information relating to Name may be provided within the same column (e.g., Name 1, Name 2, Name 3, Name 4, etc.), information relating to Check Type may be provided within the same column (e.g., Check Type 1, Check Type 2, Check Type 3, Check Type 4, etc.), information relating to Hours may be provided within the same column (e.g., Hours 1, Hours 2, Hours 3, Hours 4, etc.).

[0097] A multi-type data field may be provided in the worksheet. For example, for the third employee, a multi-type data field may be provided for the hours. The multi-type data field may accept multiple types of data. In some instances, the multi-type data field may only be viewable when the employee information is expanded. In other instances, the multi-type data field may also be viewable when the employee information is compacted. In some instances, the employee data entry panel is expanded when a user wishes to enter or modify data into any of the fields, such as a multi-type data field.

[0098] The multiple-type data field may include one or more subfields (e.g., Hours Info A, Hours Info B, Hours Info C, Hours Info D, Hours Info E, Hours Info F). The subfields may be arranged in any manner in a multi-type data field. For example, they may be arranged as a row, or as a column, or as an array with one or more columns and one or more rows. The subfields may accept different types of information. For example, Hours Info A may accept text while Hours Info B may accept numbers. This may enable a user to enter different types of information into a single user interface without having to navigate away from the page. [0099] In accordance with an aspect of the invention, a method may be provided for entering and/or modifying human capital management data, wherein a user accesses a graphical user interface as described herein or including any of the features described herein. In some embodiments, the graphical user interface may advantageously allow a user to

enter/modify/delete data without having to navigate away from the graphical user interface. In some instances, a worksheet interface may be provided where any content relating to human capital management data for a software program may be managed without having to navigate away from the worksheet. Alternatively, the worksheet interface may be provided so that any content relating to a category of human capital management data (e.g., employee information, payroll information, event information, tax information, etc.) may be managed without having to navigate away from the worksheet. Any details relating to the data category covered within the worksheet may be accessed from the worksheet without having to navigate away to another page. Details may be drillable, and presented in a visually intuitive manner. This may also include details that are of different data types.

[00100] FIG. 15 shows a user interface in accordance with another aspect of the invention. The user interface may demonstrate a variety of labor distribution and worker compensation distribution flyouts. The user interface may apply to other areas of human capital management data.

[00101] As shown in the upper left part of FIG. 15, a user may click on a cell, or otherwise select a cell, to enter one or several figures. Each figure may correspond to an account. If multiple figures are provided, they may aggregate into a single entry. Various human capital management content may be viewable and/or modifiable from the figures. In some instances, a user interactive interface 1500 may be provided that may enable a user to dynamically add "split lines." Furthermore, quick access with keyboard shortcuts may be provided.

[00102] Furthermore, as shown in the upper right part of FIG. 15, a user may click on a single entry to "breakdown" or "distribute" that entry among several accounts. For example, clicking on a single entry may open up multiple figures, which may take the value from the initial entry and distribute it to one or more places indicated.

[00103] The center left, and center right and lower right parts of FIG. 15 show an example of a graphical indicator that may show that figures are "composite." For example, the composite indicator 1502 may be a visual icon or color or shape that may be shown within an entry cell. Selecting an item in a cell with a composite indicator may open the multiple figures associated with the item. This may include multiple data types. For example, for a value, a code 1504 may be provided, a value 1506, and a drop down 1508 menu showing a status. In some instances, the composite item may be based on one or more values in the multiple figures (e.g., as shown in the center left, a composite value of 40 may be the sum of various values indicated within multiple figures, such as 25 and 15).

[00104] The center right part of FIG. 15 shows a generalization of a "breakdown" interaction into worker's compensation codes (which may be applicable to any other type of classification or human capital management data).

[00105] As shown in the bottom right corner of FIG. 15, a user can click on a cell with a composite indicator to open the cell to show multiple associated data fields. In some instances, clicking anywhere in the cell will open up the cell, while in other instances, a specified region of the cell (such as the composite indicator) would have to be clicked. In other examples, a shortcut key 1510a, 1510b (such as D or W) can be used to open the cell.

[00106] The lower left part of FIG. 15 shows an example of additional functionality that may be provided when the cell is opened up. For example, a 'Save' option 1512 may be provided. Other functions may be provided to an expanded cell view.

[00107] In some embodiments, these cell functionalities may be provided in worksheets, or other parts of a human capital management software or display.

[00108] Comparison Control Tool

[00109] In accordance with an aspect of the invention, a system for human capital

management may be provided. The system may include a user-interactive display device. The user-interactive display device may include a video display that may show a control comparison page. The control comparison page may be used compare one or more human capital management items.

[00110] FIG. 16 shows an example of a user interface that may be displayed as part of a control comparison page. One or more items 1600a, 1600b, 1600c, 1600d (which may be human capital management items) may be provided. For example, earnings items such as Reg, OT, DOT may be provided. Similarly, deductions items such as BON, or SWAG may be provided. In some embodiments, items may be displayed so that they are adjacent to one another. For example, they may form a row or a column.

[00111] In some embodiments, a control value 1602 for an item may be displayed. The control values may be visually mapped to the corresponding items 1600e. Also, a worksheet value 1604 for the item may also be displayed, such that the worksheet value is also visually mapped to the corresponding item. The worksheet value may reflect a value actually entered into a worksheet, while a control value may be offered as a basis of comparison for the worksheet value. The control value may be any reference value which may be user-determined, or determined automatically within the system. In some instances, the control value may represent a theoretical value, or may be based on other data, or some calculation based on other data.

[00112] A difference value 1606 for an item may also be displayed, and may be visually mapped to the corresponding item. In some instances, the item 1600e, control value 1602, worksheet value 1604, and difference value 1606 may all be visually mapped to one another. The difference value may reflect the difference between the control value and the worksheet value. For example, the difference value could equal the worksheet value minus the control value, or alternatively the control value minus the worksheet value. In some embodiments, if no difference is found, the difference value may reflect a null value, or may not include any value.

[00113] In some embodiments, items may be listed vertically, so that rows may include related values for the items. In some embodiments, the last row of each code grid may be a special add row. This need not be part of the code grid, but may be positioned to be close to the code grid. The special add row may include code auto-complete action.

[00114] In some embodiments, a code grid may be linked to a payroll cycle. In some embodiments, the first time the code grid is used, the default control values may be empty or null. Thus, a first payroll cycle may generate a worksheet with no control values. An add row may appear in each section. Code lists may be auto-saved with templates on each panel exit. The next time the code grids are used, the auto-saved code lists may be retrieved. When a subsequent worksheet is generated, the code lists may be recreated from the auto-saved code lists. In some implementations, the control values may depend on values from a previous pay cycle. In some instances, they may be auto-populated.

[00115] FIG. 17 shows a comparison user interface with a visual indicator that may indicate if the difference value 1704 falls within a predetermined range or outside a predetermined range. In one example a difference value may be a worksheet value minus a control value. For example, if the difference value is too great, an indicator may be provided saying that the worksheet value is "too high." Any comparison visual indicator may be used, such as a message, popup, symbol, color highlighting, etc. Additionally, if the difference value is negative, a comparison visual indicator may be provided indicating that the worksheet value is "too few" or "too low." In one example, a bubble 1700 may be provided indicating "too few hours entered."

[00116] Additional visual indications may be provided when the difference value is not within a predetermined range. For example, an entire row or column associated with the item may be highlighted. For example, if the difference value is too low, an entire row may be highlighted a first color to indicate that the value is too low. If the difference value is too high, an entire row may be highlighted a second color to indicate that the value is too high.

[00117] In one example, other message may be given as why a difference may not fall within a predetermined range. For example, if a pointer such as a mouse pointer 1702 is hovering over a difference value that is outside the predetermined range, a message may be provided, such as "missing hours" or "too many hours entered." These messages may be customized to the type of data that is off.

[00118] In some embodiments, a user may be able to directly modify a control value 1706. For example, a user may click on a field holding the control value. The user can highlight and select a current value. When the user enters a new value, this may erase the old value. A new difference value may automatically be calculated based on the new control value.

[00119] FIG. 18 shows an example of visual cues that may be associated with control tools. For example, if a difference value falls outside a predetermined range, a visual indicator 1800a, 1800c may be provided. In one example, a visual indicator may include a symbol, such as an 'X' adjacent or visually mapped to the difference value. In some instances, the difference value may be highlighted. In some instances, the row including the difference value may be highlighted. Another example of a visual indicator for a particular difference value, e.g., when the control value and worksheet value are not equal is '≠'.

[00120] In some embodiments, a visual indicator may be selected, allowing a user to take an action. For example, if an 'X' is provided, a user may select/click on the 'X' to remove the row without confirmation.

[00121] In some embodiments, a visual indicator may be provided when the difference value falls within a predetermined range. For example, a check mark 1800b may be provided when the difference value is in an acceptable range. The check mark may be visually mapped to the difference value or the corresponding item. In some instances, the visual indicator may be adjacent to the difference value, the worksheet value, the control value or the item.

[00122] Some examples of visual cues that may be used for the cells may be as follows:

• Green checkmark on left when all figures match, there are at least two

matches, or if there is only one match if only one value is entered

• Green/grey background when matched (may apply to each group of 3 cells)

• Red no-equals graphic may be shown on the left when 1 or both values don't match

• Reddish background when not matched (may apply to each group of 3 cells) [00123] This may result in the following possible states:

• 1 entered figure, matched, green checkmark, 3 cells greenish

• 2 entered figures, both match, green chart mark, 6 cells greenish

• 1 entered figure, not matched, unequal icon, 3 cells reddish

• 2 entered figures, neither match, unequal icon, 6 cells reddish

• 2 entered figures, only 1 match, unequal icon, 3 cells greenish, 3 cells reddish.

[00124] Such combinations may be provided by way of example only, and any other visual indicators may be used for various comparison values.

[00125] FIG.19 provides additional examples of visual cues 1900a, 1900b, 1900c, 1900d for control tools. Other symbols may be used such as arrows or exclamation marks. For example arrows may be preferable for drawing the user's attention to an item or row. An exclamation mark may indicate a large error or an error that requires attention.

[00126] The visual cues may appear within a comparison display, or may be outside a comparison display (e.g., to the right or left of a row of a comparison display).

[00127] It should be understood from the foregoing that, while particular implementations have been illustrated and described, various modifications can be made thereto and are contemplated herein. It is also not intended that the invention be limited by the specific examples provided within the specification. While the invention has been described with reference to the aforementioned specification, the descriptions and illustrations of the preferable embodiments herein are not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Furthermore, it shall be understood that all aspects of the invention are not limited to the specific depictions,

configurations or relative proportions set forth herein which depend upon a variety of conditions and variables. Various modifications in form and detail of the embodiments of the invention will be apparent to a person skilled in the art. It is therefore contemplated that the invention shall also cover any such modifications, variations and equivalents.

Claims

CLAIMS WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A system for human capital management comprising:

a user-interactive display device;

a data entry page displayed on the user-interactive display device, wherein the data entry page shows a plurality of human capital management data entry panels,

wherein at least one of the human capital management data panels is a fully viewable human capital management data item with a plurality of accordion panes, and

wherein at least one selected accordion pane is fully viewable and at least one non-selected accordion field is selectable but not fully viewable.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of human capital management data entry panels are displayed linearly with a first orientation.

3. The system of claim 2, wherein the plurality of accordion panes are displayed linearly with a second orientation that is different from the first orientation.

4. The system of claim 3, wherein the first orientation is a vertical orientation, and the second orientation is a horizontal orientation.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein the data entry panel is shown in a fully viewable state or a not fully viewable state, wherein selecting a data entry panel that is in a not fully viewable state causes it to be shown in a fully viewable state.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein one accordion page is selectable at a time.

7. The system of claim 3, wherein the order of accordion panes displayed along the second orientation remains the same when different accordion panes are selected.

8. The system of claim 3, wherein the order of accordion panes displayed along the second orientation varies when different accordion panes are selected.

9. The system of claim 1, wherein the selected accordion pane is configured to accept user entry of human capital management data.

10. A graphical user interface for data entry of human capital management data, the graphical user interface comprising:

a plurality of human capital management data entry panels displayed adjacent to one another;

at least one fully viewable human capital management data entry panel with at least one multiple data entry field, wherein the multiple data entry field is configured to accept and/or modify multiple types of data.

11. The graphical user interface of claim 10, wherein a Silverlight application is used to allow the multiple data entry field to accept and/or modify multiple types of data.

12. The graphical user interface of claim 10 wherein the data entry panels are displayed as a compacted entry or an expanded entry, wherein the data entry panel is fully viewable for expanded entries.

13. The graphical user interface of claim 10 wherein the data entry panels are displayed in a linear order along a first orientation.

14. The graphical user interface of claim 10 wherein the multiple data entry field includes a plurality of subfields that are capable of accepting different types of data from one another.

15. A method for entering and/or modifying human capital management data, wherein a user accesses the graphical user interface of claim 10, and the user does not navigate away from the graphical user interface while entering and/or modifying human capital management data.

16. A system for human capital management comprising:

a user-interactive display device;

a control comparison page displayed on the user-interactive display device, wherein the control comparison page displays at least one human capital management item, at least one control value for the human capital management item, at least one worksheet value for the human capital management item, and at least one difference value between the at least one control value and the at least one worksheet value, and

wherein the at least one human capital management item, the at least one control value, the at least one worksheet value, and the at least one difference value are visually mapped to one another.

17. The system of claim 16 further comprising a control marker indicating whether the difference value falls outside a predetermined range.

18. The system of claim 17 wherein a message is displayed about why the difference value falls outside the predetermined range.

19. The system of claim 16 wherein the control value is capable of being modified within the control comparison page.

20. The system of claim 16 further comprising a special add row which is configured to accept a user input for a new code and control value.