USER FEEDBACK PROVIDED FROM WITHIN AN APPLICATION

摘要

A method for providing user feedback leverages background data collected by a software application. A software application includes a feedback mode that is accessible via a keyboard shortcut or the like. Once invoked, the feedback mode disables functionality normally associated with toolbar icons, menu options, scroll bars, and other user interface elements. Certain user interface elements are highlighted or otherwise provided with a modified appearance. Selecting one of these highlighted user interface elements displays a feedback panel. The feedback panel enables the user to submit context-specific feedback. In the background, in a way that requires little or no user input, the feedback mode compiles data that provides context to the submitted feedback. The collected feedback can be transmitted directly to a developer's feedback portal, or can optionally be queued for later transmission if a network connection is unavailable at the time the feedback is actually collected.

主权项

1. A computer-implemented software application feedback submission method that comprises:
receiving first user input that invokes a feedback mode in a software application, wherein the software application includes a first feature accessible via a first user interface element, and a second feature accessible via a second user interface element; disabling the first user interface element in response to invoking the feedback mode, wherein the first feature cannot be accessed via the disabled first user interface element; shifting functionality associated with the second user interface element in response to invoking the feedback mode; receiving a selection of the second user interface element in the feedback mode; displaying a feedback panel in response to receiving the selection of the second user interface element; receiving second user input via the feedback panel; harvesting status data associated with the software application; and sending the second user input and the status data to a feedback administration server.