User interface for automated project management

Abstract

A process manager supports the interactive definition of multiple user groups having access to process application software, and for each group, the interactive definition of a respective group interface which is unique to the group. Preferably, the group interface is a project tracking notepad which lists tasks applicable to the group, and functions as both a selection menu and a status indicator or reminder of actions to be performed or which have been performed. The project tracking notepad is an alternative user interface, which exists in addition to any other user interfaces available. Preferably, an administrator defines, for each group, the task selections applicable to the group, and the task description which will display on project tracking notepad. Thus it is possible to describe the same task with different descriptive words or phrases when the task selection is displayed in the notepads of different groups. Each task selection displayed in a project tracking notepad contains a respective status indicator, which is preferably a colored light. The process management function described herein provides diverse groups of users with easy-to-understand project menus which are specific to the group, do not include superfluous task selections, and use descriptive terminology meaningful to the group. Furthermore, such project menus are easily customizable and editable by a process administrator or similar user.