Graphical user interface for generic listing of managed objects

摘要

Methods for efficiently filtering and sorting a large number of managed objects of different object types are presented. A single context-sensitive listing form is employed, the operation and display of which changes dynamically according to the selection of a target object. Whenever the user changes the selected target object, the items of a list type menu change to display the applicable list types. An action menu and/or a context-sensitive tool bar changes based on the selected target object to provide quick access selected object type specific actions. The solution allows users to paste objects into the listing form, perform complex filtering based on the object type used, provide a quick assessment of list filtering effectiveness, and invoke appropriate actions on managed object hits. Advantages of the solution include enhanced complex context-sensitive filtering and sorting capabilities, improved performance in dealing with large lists as well a reduction in window management.