System and method for proactive caching employing graphical usage description

Abstract

A request handler in a server handles requests from a client as a user navigates through an application having a plurality of states. A data generator is coupled to the request handler. A cache is coupled to the data generator. The data generator processes the requests received by the request handler and based, at least in part, on the requests, stores data in the cache. An application state controller is coupled to the request handler, and a preprocessor is coupled to the application state controller. The requests handled by the request handler indicate the current state of the application in which the requesting user is located, and such an indication is forwarded to the application state controller. The application state controller reads the graphical usage description, which graphically illustrates the flow of the application from state to state and determines a likely next state based on the current state. The application state controller produces a control signal based on the indication of the current state of the user and the likely next state. The preprocessor generates a preprocess signal based on the control signal. Responsive to the preprocess signal, the data generator caches the data that are likely to be needed as the user navigates through the states of the application.