Automating Tasks for Groups of Users : A System-Wide “Epiphyte” Approach

Abstract

End-users have to use macro-recorders when they want to automate tedious tasks. Their tasks often include actions from multiple applications. While some application-specific macro facilities or PBD systems have proved efficient to automate single-application tasks, system-wide --- and hence application-independent --- systems are few. Most system-wide recorders operate on low-level events whereas most repetitive activities are repetitive at a somewhat higher level of abstraction. We present a so-called ``epiphyte'' approach allowing automation of some of the repetitive tasks only, but working with unmodified applications. It uses external and partial application models to allow recording of hierarchical event histories which in turn facilitate the detection, generalization, anticipation and completion of repetitive sequences of actions. In this approach, experts are in charge of building external application models. We present some features which facilitate and quicken their work particularly in the context of a group of users.