Abstract:
The present invention generally relates to data acquisition, analysis, and management system for professionals and organizations of all sizes across many different industries. Specifically, the present invention provides systems and methods for tracking, billing, logging, reporting, archiving, searching, and mining on- and off-line user interactions. Not only does the present invention provide methods that simplify business and/or academic research activities, but provides an easy way to build and manage a scalable and secure e-library system. The present invention includes a unique log, report, search, and annotation engines, plus personalization and customization features. Sophisticated data acquisition, analysis, and management modules are hidden behind a simple toolbar embedded in the Network browser on a client computer. A backend, which consists of a scalable database system, is able to build itself into a hierarchical e-library system and software comprised of unique log, report, search, and annotation engines, plus personalization and customization features.

Description:
This is a continuation of U.S. provisional patent application No. 60/525,003, which was filed on Nov. 25, 2003, which in turn claims priority from U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/636,448, which was filed on Aug. 11, 2003, which in turn claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) from provisional application No. 60/148,491, which was filed on Aug. 12, 1999. 

   BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
   The present invention generally relates to data acquisition, analysis, and management system for professionals and organizations of all sizes across many different industries. Specifically system and software with the function of tracking, logging, reporting, archiving, searching, and mining on- and off-line user interactions. The present invention simplifies business and/or academic research activities but also makes it an easy task to build and manage a scalable and secure e-library system. The present invention includes a unique log, report, search, and annotation engines, plus personalization and customization features. 
   The present invention also consists of sophisticated data acquisition, analysis, and management modules hidden behind a simple toolbar embedded in the Web browser on a client computer. The backend of the present invention consists of a scalable database system, which is able to build itself into a hierarchical e-library system. The present invention is envisioned to be scalable from implementation in a small office network of a few client computers to a global corporate network with thousands of users. 
   While there exists prior art that mainly performs data logging, none address the issues of extracting meaningful insights from the tracking data in a client server environment. The present invention tracks the activities (web and locally) of a user and keeps an audit trail of his actions. The Data Acquisition part consists of plug-ins embedded within the network browser. These components can be programmed to collect system wide data and send the information to a central server in an enterprise setting or store them locally for a standalone deployment. The information collected is extensive in nature and is used as the base for a variety of analytics and reports. The tracking component in the network browser is a lightweight invisible component completely transparent to the user, and it tracks all the user actions in a browser including the navigation and input actions. All the data collected on the client machines is stored in a central database server for post processing and analysis. Partner online can provide complete profiling of the user behavior with different granularity levels. 
   Advanced Productivity Software, Inc. (APS) develops and markets time tracking and electronic research tracking software for the legal and other professional markets. APS&#39;s software tracks time spent on e-mail, tasks, calendar events, etc. and integrates with accounting, time &amp; billing systems and other software applications. Unlike the present invention, APS&#39;s software requires manual time-entry by the user and does not provide an audit trail. 
   Time Matters Software is a leading practice management software provider. Some features of Time Matters include: a Central Timer Control system that enables time tracking of concurrent multiple tasks, SQL reporting, web access tools and multi-office replication and synchronization capabilities to portable devices. Its desktop and web-based software versions are available via a non-ASP model. Time Matters provides an option to link to industry leading programs for billing/expense control, and document automation and management. Time Matters integrates into a practice management software package, and is also sold through Lexis Nexis, a third party legal content provider and data aggregator. Unlike the present invention, Time Matters requires the manual setting of an on-off timer clock and requires the user to create and manually maintain databases of web sites and web references. 
   PensEra Knowledge Technologies Inc. provides time tracking and knowledge management to the legal profession. PensEra develops Web-based knowledge tools and portal tools, i.e. an online timesheet and central repository of data input, respectively. Its software accommodates a wide range of portable upload and synchronization devices. Unlike The present invention, PensEra&#39;s tracking software requires time entries by the user and does not provide an audit trail. 
   AskSam Systems, Inc. through its SurfSaver software creates a searchable archive of information. The software allows for permanent storage of websites including graphics and hypertext links. The SurfSaver Network version lets multiple users save, search, and view information. In addition, folders can be emailed to other. SurfSaver users. SurfSaver lets a research assistant gather on-line research to share with others. Unlike the present invention, SurfSaver does provide an audit trail or track time on the computer. It also can not be integrated into any time and billing/invoicing software packages. 
   Both Worlds Software, Inc. through its Image Time software mainly addresses the accounting profession. Through the company&#39;s Image Time software, a client is provided the ability to eliminate timesheets, monitor productivity and track client receivables; provide timely reports about clients and staff; analyze firm growth, and prepare peer review. Unlike the present invention, Both Worlds Software does not track Internet research. 
   AimingTech provides software integrated with other windows applications to help users find information online and offline. AimingTech software also allows a user to annotate online and offline content and search these annotated documents. Unlike the present invention the AimingTech software does not provide users with the audit trails of the user activities or have an efficient report generated embedded with the package. 
   iMarkup Solutions, Inc. provides collaboration and workflow solutions for digital content and document management. Their products enable workers to collaborate within and across document content and knowledge management systems. Their tools enable end-users to communicate, annotate, organize and collaborate over the Web as well as providing business users the tools needed to automate and manage their existing business processes. Unlike the present invention iMarkup is not capable of generating customized reports, nor does it provide users with a logical, visual trail depicting how information is retrieved. 
   Net Snippets is a suite of Personal and Collaborative Information Management Solutions for Internet-based Research. Net Snippets offers a user-friendly platform for personal and collaborative enterprise research, providing users selective information clipping, built in editing tools and an embedded search engine. Net Snippets also creates enterprise research repository and automatically indexes the data both locally and remotely. However, unlike the present invention it does not provide an audit trail of the online or offline user activities. 
   BillQuick, a time and billing software is used for off-site consultants and satellite offices: time keeping, expense recording, report generation, invoicing, client management and project management via the Web, and time and expense recording on a Palm or Windows CE device. Unlike the present invention, BillQuick does not disclose a web based document archive or web based document modification, and recollection system. 
   Elite Information Group, Inc. through its subsidiaries including Elite.com and Law Manager, Inc., provides financial &amp; practice management software applications, for law firms and other professional service organizations. Elite provides Internet-based time tracking and billing services to smaller professional services companies. Law Manager provides software products including case management, docketing, records management, e-commerce systems and implementation services to law firms, large corporate legal departments and government agencies. Systems include invoice tracking, budgeting, case management and records management. Unlike the present invention, Elite&#39;s products do not track, monitor, or capture Internet research activity. 
   Telemate.Net provides URL filtering tools primarily to help companies manage their employees Internet access and usage. Such as network gateways, switches, and provisioning and billing systems, as well as call accounting and Internet usage management applications. Unlike The present invention, Telemate&#39;s products do not have automated time tracking and billing/invoicing capabilities. 
   Websense Enterprise, provides Employee Internet Management (EIM) software that enable businesses to manage how their employees use the Internet at work. This product gives businesses the ability to implement and configure Internet access policies in support of their efforts to improve employee productivity, conserve network bandwidth and storage space, and mitigate potential legal liability. The Company&#39;s software applications operate in conjunction with its proprietary Websense Master Database, which is available for daily incremental downloads. 
   Westlaw Group provides online legal research services. It enables legal professionals to conduct their research quickly with an extensive collection of legal resources, news, business, and public records information. Additionally, the company&#39;s software platform allows them to allocate time and billing services to a client project. Westlaw is mainly a third party content provider and data aggregator. Unlike The present invention, Westlaw&#39;s products do not have automated Internet activity tracking, monitoring and capturing features. 
   U.S. Pat. No. 6,189,024 issued to Bauersfeld et al. discloses a browsing session recording playback and editing system for generating user defined paths and allowing users to mark the importance of items in the paths. The &#39;024 invention automatically records every web page that the user visits. The user can then view all of the paths traversed using a session history toolbar, which incorporates a few control options. The user may also edit the paths, and mark pages on a priority basis. Unlike the present invention, the Bauersfeld et al. invention does not allow the user to query the session history, it merely allows a user to play back and modify the session history. 
   U.S. Pat. No. 6,052,730 issued to Feliciano et al. discloses a method for monitoring and modifying web browsing sessions. The &#39;730 invention allows for network activity to be recorded by rerouting client HTTP requests through a centralized gateway server, which can record the sequence and timing of URL&#39;s accessed by the individuals on the network. The Feliciano et al. invention also allows the user to add content to the network documents and stores the modification on the gateway server. Unlike the present invention, the &#39;730 patent does not allow the user to act on behalf of a multitude of clients tracking Internet activity on a client matter basis. 
   U.S. Pat. No. 6,625,624 issued to Chen et al. discloses a system and method of archiving web pages and accessing information from a server across a communication network. The &#39;624 invention enables users to retrieve information even after such information has disappeared from the original server. Unlike the present invention the Chen system does not include the ability to monitor on an individual client basis the time spent on the internet, nor does it allow the user to modify the web based documents or provide access to archived data gathered by other users utilizing the archive system. 
   U.S. Pat. No. 6,647,531 issued to Issac et al. discloses a method of customization of network documents. A user may access a network document, and customize it. The customized document is archived. Upon the user navigating to a network address, the network address is cross-referenced with an archive storing customized network documents. If the network document has been previously customized, the customized document is output to the user. Unlike the present invention the &#39;531 patent does not disclose a method of keeping an audit trail of user interaction, nor does it provide document confidence ranking or knowledge sharing within the network users group. 
   The present invention enables clients to effectively track, monitor, and capture in-house and outsourced professional services with regard to computer activity and Internet research. The present invention is a web-based application applicable across the entire PSA market. The prior art consisting of software applications designed to capture and bill for time spent, and in some cases time spent on the computer. However, other than the present invention, no prior art appears capable of providing an automated audit trail to validate time spent online, with detail of the websites visited. Much of the prior art&#39;s capabilities are limited to generating user-managed time sheets. 
   Although the prior art perform their respective purposes, what is needed in the industry of time tracking is a system which consists of sophisticated data acquisition, analysis, and management modules hidden behind a simple toolbar embedded in the Network browser on a client computer, and a backend which consists of a scalable database system, which is able to build itself into a hierarchical e-library system and software comprised of unique log, report, search, and annotation engines, plus personalization and customization features. 
   SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
   The present invention relates generally to systems and computed implemented methods that seamlessly track a users movement and activity on their computer. The user&#39;s computer may be a stand alone or over a simple or distributed network. 
   One embodiment of the present invention is a knowledge archival and recollection system accessible by at least one user. The system comprises a data acquisition module in communication with a database server and a file archive. The data acquisition module includes a network browser plug-in and a toolbar plug-in embedded in a network browser toolbar of the at least one user&#39;s computer. The file archive is in communication with the database server, a file archive indexer, and the data acquisition module. A data presentation module is in communication with a report module and a search module. The report module is in communication with the database server, the data presentation module, the search module and the file archive. The search module is in communication with the database server, a file archive indexer, the data presentation module, the report module and the file archive. The file archive indexer is in communication with the file archive, the database server, the report module and the search module. The system gathers user activity data and files accessed by each at least one user through the data acquisition module and archives the user activity data and files on the database server and the file archive for retrieval by each at least one user. 
   Another embodiment provides a method of recording user activity in a knowledge archival and recollection system. The method comprising a first step of initiating a network browser plug-in on detecting that a network browser has been opened. This is followed by the step of providing at least one file to the user from the network. The next step may be transmitting and storing at least one file to a file archive using a file transfer protocol. User activity data may be gathered for each at least one file accessed. User activity data may be gathered for each related at least one file. Followed by transmitting and storing the user activity data to a database server using a database connection protocol. Followed by the final step of indexing each at least one document. 
   Yet another embodiment provides a method of extracting knowledge from a knowledge archival and recollection system. This method may comprise the steps of recognizing a user actuation; initiating a search application; displaying a user search interface; receiving input parameters via the search interface; identifying a query type based on the received input parameters; formulating a database query based on the received input parameters; transmitting the database query to a database; obtaining database query results from the database; providing the database query results to a result, analyzer module; and displaying search result analyzer module results to a user. 
   Another embodiment provides a method of extracting knowledge from a knowledge archival and recollection system. The method may comprise the steps of recognizing a user actuation; launching a reporting engine in response to the user actuation; receiving report parameters from, a user; formulating a query; configuring a report generator according to the report parameters; transmitting the query to a database server; searching archived reports; loading query results into a report generator; generating a report; and displaying the report on a graphical user interface. 
   Another embodiment provides a method of extracting knowledge from an enterprise-wide web knowledge recollection and archival system. The method may comprise the steps of recognizing a user actuation; launching a reporting engine; receiving report parameters; formulating a query; configuring a report generator according to the report parameters; transmitting the query to a database server; obtaining query results from the database server according to the query; loading the query results into a report generator; generating a report; and displaying the report on a graphical user interface. 
   Another embodiment provides a method of timing and recording user activity in a knowledge archival and recollection system. The method comprises the steps of configuring an activity tracking module; logging into said knowledge archival and recollection system; prompting the user with a task identifier input interface upon opening an application user interface; initiating a timer upon input into the input interface; stopping the timer upon inactive application interface; and storing timer data into a database server. 
   Another embodiment provides a method of billing in an enterprise wide web knowledge archival and recollection system. The method comprising the steps of: recognizing a user actuation; presenting a billing module user interface. Inputting billing parameters; reading supporting data from a configuration file; formulating a query from the billing parameters; transmitting the query to a database server, and obtaining the results from the query; analyzing the results; generating a report using a report generator and presenting the report to a user using a report viewer. 
   Yet another embodiment discloses a knowledge archival and recollection system accessible by at least one user, the system comprising: a data acquisition module in communication with a database server and a file archive and a database connectivity module. The data acquisition module includes a network browser plug-in and a toolbar plug-in embedded in a network browser of the at least one user&#39;s computer. The network browser plug-in transmits data gathered from at least one users network browser to the database server through the database connectivity module. The file archive is in communication with the database server, a file archive indexer, and the data acquisition module. A data presentation module is in communication with a report module and a search module wherein the report module is in communication with the database server, the data presentation module, the search module and the file archive and the database connectivity module. The search module is in communication with the database server, a file archive indexer, the data presentation module, the report module and the file archive and the database connectivity module. The file archive indexer is in communication with the file archive, the database server, the report module and the search module and a timing module in communication with the database server. The timing module records the start time and stop time for an activity within any computer based application. An automatic billing module is in communication with a report module and database server. The automatic billing module generates invoices on user activity. A messenger monitor module is in communication with the database server, and the file archive. The messenger monitor module tracks user activity in a messenger application. A database connectivity module in communication with the data acquisition module, the file archive, the database server, the report module, and the search module, and the automatic billing module, the timing module, the messenger monitor module. The database connectivity module acts as communication gateway to the database server. The system gathers user activity data and files accessed by each the at least one user through the data acquisition module and archives the user activity data and files on the database server and the file archive for the retrieval by each the at least one user. 
   Another embodiment of the present invention provides a method of recording user activity in a knowledge archival and recollection system, the method comprising the steps of initiating a network browser plug-in on detecting that a network browser has been opened; providing at least one file to the user from the network; reading a configuration file; creating a file transfer connection from the network browser plug-in to a file archive; establishing communication between the network browser plug-in and a database server; transmitting and storing at least one file to a file archive using a file transfer protocol; gathering user activity data for each the at least one file accessed; associating the user activity data to each related the at least one file; transmitting and storing the user activity data to a database server using a database connection protocol; and indexing each the at least one file. 
   Another embodiment provides a method of searching in a knowledge archival and recollection system, the method comprising the steps: recognizing a user actuation; initiating a search application; displaying a user search interface; receiving input parameters via the search interface; identifying a query type based on the received input parameters; formulating a keyword query based on the received input parameters; transmitting the keyword query to an indexer; formulating a database query based on the received input parameters; transmitting the database query to a database; obtaining the keyword query results from the indexer; obtaining database query results from the database; determining an intersection of the keyword query results and the database query results; providing the intersection to the post-processing module; generating a rank for each database query result; obtaining a click stream for each database query result; displaying search result analyzer and click stream visualization module results to a user. 
   These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following drawings, description and claims. 

   
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       FIG. 1  depicts a single user system architecture according to the present invention; 
       FIG. 2  depicts a multiple user network environment according to the present invention; 
       FIG. 3  depicts a multiple user distributed network according to the present invention; 
       FIG. 4  depicts a portion of the system according to one embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 5  depicts a portion of the system overview according to another embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 6  depicts a portion of the system according to one embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIGS. 7A-7C  depict a screen shot of a portion of the system according to one embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 8  depicts a screen shot of a portion of the system according to one embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 9  depicts a method according to one embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 10  depicts a method according to one embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 11  depicts a method according to one embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 12  depicts a portion of the system according to one embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 13  depicts a portion of the system according to one embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 14  depicts a screen shot of a portion of the system according to one embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 15  depicts a method of implementation according to one embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 16  depicts a portion of the system according to one embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 17  depicts a screen shot of a portion of the system according to one embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 18  depicts a screen shot of a portion of the system according to one embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 19  depicts a method according to one embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 20  depicts a portion of the system according to one embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 21  depicts a method according to one embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 22  depicts a portion of the system according to one embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 23  depicts a method according to one embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 24  depicts a portion of the system according to one embodiment of the present invention; 
       FIG. 25  depicts a portion of the system according to one embodiment of the present invention; and 
       FIG. 26  depicts a portion of the system according to one embodiment of the present invention. 
   

   DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
   The present invention, as depicted in  FIG. 1 , provides a knowledge archival and recollection system  20 , for tracking user activity in a client server environment, archiving and managing user knowledge, and extracting meaningful insight from the user activity data and archived knowledge. It is envisioned that the present invention may be particularly valuable in business and academic environments, where collaboration and time tracking of highly detailed nature are particularly important. 
   The knowledge archival and recollection system  20  has modules intercommunicating to perform a myriad of functions. The vast functionality of the knowledge archival and recollection system  20  stems from three basic functions: (1) data acquisition, (2) data archival, and (3) data recollection. The data acquisition functionality may be both online and offline. Much work throughout all industries and academia is done using a computer in both online and offline settings. For example, a lawyer working on a computer may be working on behalf of a client searching Internet resources and concurrently typing a memorandum in a word processing application running on the local computer operating system. Data acquisition functions include tracking, logging, and file modification and may be both online and offline. Tracking and logging user activity provides an easy way of automatically auditing time spent by users utilizing a computer system with marginal need for user input. Because all data acquisition functions are designed to operate for both online and offline applications, complete records of all activity in the computer environment may be generated and stored. Intrinsic to the tracking and logging function is the ability of users to modify and personalize the files accessed using their computer system. Given the vast amount of electronic information, it is extremely useful for users to write notes, or modify information on the files accessed. For example, a user may navigate to a file (may include a webpage) on a network, find it relevant to the task at hand and make certain notes and modifications to the file highlighting pertinent information. At a future date the same user may navigate to the same file. The previously made modifications may quickly remind the user exactly why the page was marked with importance. Modification and personalization functions aid users in keeping track of information and knowledge accessed while browsing a network. Paired with a searching function, the modification function allows multiple users researching common subjects to share thoughts on the information accessed. This results in reduced searching times and a collaborative learning environment. 
   The data archiving function works in conjunction with the tracking, logging, and modifying functionality by recording all the information collected by the data acquisition function. The data archiving function archives files accessed by a user and the respective data gathered by the tracking and logging and modifying functions. The search function aids users in knowledge recollection and information sharing between users. All information recorded by the data acquisition functions is at the disposal of the user, for users may search the archived information according to customizable input parameters. The searching functions effectively reduce the amount of time wasted performing redundant research, which may be especially beneficial to research groups in which multiple users are researching a common topic. The searching function also allows users to retrieve files previously accessed and may also provide a user with a visual depiction of the logical steps taken to arrive at a particular file. 
   A reporting function works in conjunction with the searching functions and generates customizable activity reports based on user input parameters and information stored on the knowledge archival and recollection system  20 . 
   The present invention consists of sophisticated data acquisition, analysis, and management modules hidden behind a simple toolbar embedded in the network browser on a client computer. The backend of the present invention consists of a scalable database system, which self-propagates to build itself into a hierarchical e-library system. The present invention is envisioned to be scalable from implementation in a small office network of a few client computers to a global corporate network with thousands of users. It should be understood that the number 20 is intended to encompass a number of different systems as in  FIGS. 1-3 . This is not exhaustive, and is merely intended to depict that it is envisioned that there may be a number of different systems and system architectures in which the present invention may be utilized. 
   The flexible client server system provides flexibility and scalability to, the system.  FIG. 1  depicts the knowledge archival and recollection system  20  residing on a single computer  21 . In this case, the system  20  is configured to stand alone on a single computer  21  for use by at least one user (e.g.  23 ,  25 ,  27 ) working locally on the computer  21 . 
     FIG. 2  depicts the knowledge archival and recollection system  20  as a distributed system, distributed over a local network  33 . This small-scale distributed system  20  consists of at least one central server  29  and at least one computer (e.g.  21 ,  31 ,  35 ,  39 ,  41 ) in communication with the central server  29  via a local network  33 . One example of this small scale distributed system is a company with one local in-house computer network. In this case employees who are part of the corporations local network may access the knowledge archival and recollection system  20 . The present invention facilitates knowledge sharing within the local network. 
     FIG. 3  depicts the knowledge archival and recollection system  20  as a larger scale distributed system. This system  20  may consist of multiple servers (e.g.  29 ,  41 ) and multiple intercommunicating networks, which may be in various locations. A multitude of computers (e.g.  21 ,  35 ,  31 ,  37 ,  39 ,  41 ) may be in communication with the servers (e.g.  29 ,  41 ) via the intercommunicating local networks. One example of this system configuration is a large corporation with multiple offices in different locations. Aside from auditing tracking and storing user activity, this large-scale distributed network facilitates the sharing of knowledge throughout the entire corporate computer network in multiple locations. 
     FIG. 4  depicts the main modules of the knowledge archival and recollection system  20  according to the preferred embodiment. The modules may be a data acquisition module  26 , a data presentation module  40 , a file archive  24 , a file archive indexer  32 , a database server  22 , a search module  28 , a report module  30 , an automatic timing module  36 , a billing module  38 , and a messenger monitor module  34 . The simple, user-friendly and transparent modules work seamlessly and automatically with a multitude of computer operating systems and network browsers. This may be any of the configurations depicted in  FIGS. 1-3  or variations as are well known within the art. Examples of the computer operating systems are LINUX/UNIX based systems, and Microsoft Windows based systems. The network browser may be an intranet browser or an Internet browser such as Windows based Internet Explorer or Netscape Navigator, mozilla, or the UNIX/Linux based Mozilla, Netscape. 
   The database server  22  may be in communication with a data acquisition module  26 , a messenger monitor module  34 , an automatic timing module  36 , a file archive  24 , a search module  28 , a report module  30 , a billing module  38  (See  FIG. 4 ). The term in communication is intended to mean any means of communication known within the art. This may be, an internet connection or a direct connection. The database server  22  stores user activity data gathered and transmitted by the data acquisition module  26 , messenger monitor module  34  and automatic timing module  36 . User activity data may be user activity information, system information and environment information. User activity information may be the webpage addresses visited, files visited. System information may be the information regarding your computer such as operating system, ip address, computer name, location. Environment information may information concerning whether your on a network, network location, etc. For the purposes of retrieval of user activity data, the database server  22  is in communication with the search module  28  and report module  30 . The database server may also store data transmitted from the billing module  40 , search module  28  and report module  30 . 
   The file archive  24  is in communication with the data acquisition module  26 , file archive indexer  32  and search module  28 . The file archive  24  may also be in communication with the report module  30 . The file archive  24  stores the files accessed by the user in the network browser, generating a comprehensive e-library of information. The term file may include, but is not limited to, web-based document, word processing document, spreadsheet document, portable document format, XML file, a text file, a web-based file, a media file, and an audio file. The file archive  24  is an integral component to the knowledge recollection functions of the present invention. 
   The amount of information on computer networks and the World Wide Web is growing at astronomical rates and can often be overwhelming. A barrage of sources often confronts those performing research on the World Wide Web and can lead to confusion and frustration. For example, an individual may be researching a topic and find a very good and relevant source of information. The individual may want to access the same source at a later date, only to find it no longer in existence. The knowledge archival and recollection system  20  remedies this situation by archiving all files accessed by the user on the file archive  24  effectively building an e-library of information. By storing the files accessed by users on the file archive  24 , paired with the activity data stored on the database server  22 , the knowledge archival and recollection system  20  may record complete records of user activity. This solves the problem of outdated yet potentially important files being lost. 
   The data acquisition module  26  may be in communication with the database server  22  and the file archive  24 . The data acquisition module  26  gathers user activity data that may be transmitted and stored on the file archive  24  and the database server  22 . The data acquisition module  26  also gathers files accessed by at least one user in a network browser, and transmits the files to the file archive. The functionality of the system revolves around user activity data collection by the data acquisition module  26 , the storage of the user activity data on the database server  22 , and the storage of the files accessed on the file archive  24 . 
   A file archive indexer  32  is in communication with the file archive  24 , with the prime function of indexing the information stored on the file archive  24 . As the size of the file archive  24  increases, the time required to, search the archive increases as well. To alleviate this problem, the file archive indexer  32  is implemented to generate an index of the contents of the file archive  24 . Searching the file archive indexer  32  rather than searching the entire file archive  24  increases the efficiency of the system. 
   The search module  28  is in communication with the file archive indexer  32 , the file archive  24 , the database server  22  the report module  30 , and the data presentation module  40 . The search module  28  orchestrates the search functions of the knowledge archival and recollection system  20 . Searching as performed by the search module  28 , allows users to access information stored on the file archive  24  and the database server  22 . The search module  28  assembles search parameters input by the user, translates these parameters into search queries, and transmits the search queries to the file archive  24 , file archive indexer  32  and database server  22 . The search module  28 , in conjunction with the data presentation module  40 , also displays these query results to the user, received from the file archive  24 , file archive indexer  32  and database server  22 , to the user. 
   A report module  30  is in communication with both the database server  22  and the search module  28 . Like the search module, the report module is an integral part of the greater knowledge recollection function. The report module  30  and search module  28  perform many of the same functions, such as querying the database server  22 , and are therefore in communication. The report module  30  generates activity reports based on user input parameters, and may not only display the report to the user, but also transmit the reports electronically to a mail server. 
   The system may also have an automatic timing module  36 . The automatic timing module  36 , records the time duration of user activity for both online and offline computer applications. This time data is transmitted to and stored on the database server  22 . 
   The knowledge archival and recollection system  20  may also have a messenger monitor module  34 . The messenger monitor module  34  is in communication with the database server  22 , and monitors all user activities in various messenger applications, and transmits the data gathered to the database server  22 . This provides for extensive records of all Instant Messaging activities. 
   Modules in communication with the file archive  24  (e.g. data acquisition module  26 , file archive indexer  32 , search module  28 ) communicate with the file archive  24  according to a file transfer connection which may be a network drive map, secure FTP, HTTP, IP-based connection. Modules in communication with the database server  22  (e.g. file archive  24 , search module  28 , report module  30 , billing module  38  automatic timing module  36 , messenger monitor module  34 , data acquisition module  26  database connectivity module  44 ) communicate with the database server  22  according to a database connection protocol, which may be ODBC, JDBC, HTTP/PHP. 
     FIG. 5  depicts the knowledge archival and recollection system  20  which may also have a database connectivity module  44  and a post-processing module  42 . The database connectivity module  44 , acts as an intermediary for communication between any module and the database server  22 . The database connectivity module  44  may reside on either the user side of the system or the server side of the system and may be in communication with the data acquisition module  26 , the database server  22 , the report module  30 , and the search module  28 . The database connectivity module  44  may also be in communication with an automatic timing module  36 , a billing module  38  and a messenger monitor module  34 . 
     FIG. 6  depicts the data acquisition module  26  according to a preferred embodiment. The data acquisition module  26  may be a standalone program residing on a users computer, or may be an embedded program, embedded in a users network browser  54 . The data acquisition module  26  consists of two sub components, the network browser plug-in  50  and the toolbar plug-in  52 . The toolbar plug-in  52  component of the data acquisition module  26 , may be embedded in the toolbar of the network browser  54 . The toolbar plug-in  52  is in communication with the network browser  54 , and the database server  22 . The toolbar plug-in  52 , may also be in communication with a database connectivity module  44 . 
   The network browser plug-in  50  is in communication with the network browser  54 , the database server  22 , and the file archive  24 . The network browser plug-in  50  may also be in communication with a database connectivity module  44 . The network browser plug-in  50  may sit on the back of the network browser  54 , it may be selected from the group consisting of visible plug-in, invisible plug-in and in built plug-in. 
   The functionality of the knowledge archival and recollection system  20  revolves around the collection of user activity data. The data acquisition module  26  has multiple functions. One main function is to gather the user activity data and transmit the data to the database server  22 . Another function of the data acquisition module is to gather actual content accessed by the user and transmit the files to the file archive  24 , as well as provide a platform through which the user can invoke other functions of the knowledge archival and recollection system  20  such as search, report and file modification. Via the data acquisition module  26 , users gain access to the&#39; knowledge archival, and recollection system  20 . In gaining access to the system  20 , a user may be required to present any given amount of identification information, for example, a user name and password. Users may also have different levels of authority. The authority level assigned to users dictates what level of access the user may have to the system. The authority levels may be designated and controlled by a system administrator. 
   The network browser plug-in  50  may be programmed to monitor all user activity in the network browser  54 , gather user activity data, and send the user activity data to the database server  22  or store the user activity data locally. The information collected is extensive in nature and may be used as the base for a variety of analytics and reports, executed by the search module  28  and report module  30 . The user activity data gathered by the network browser plug-in  50  may consist of user activity information, system information and environment information. The network browser plug-in  50  may also send the files accessed by the user in the network browser  54  to the file archive  24 . This feature allows the system to build an e-library of content accessed by the user. 
   The network browser plug-in  50  is able to sit behind any network browser  54  without noticeable computing overhead. Large computing overhead is a problem with many other plug-in programs, as the overhead will slow down the machine as well as take up system resource substantially. The network browser plug-in  50 , on the other hand, is taking the minimum system resources and may work seamlessly with all types of network browsers. 
   The toolbar plug-in  52  may collect file enhancement information and transmit the collected information to the database server  22 . File enhancement information may include but is not limited to annotations, highlights, categories, rankings and other file modifications. The present invention facilitates rapid customization of data by giving the user the power to highlight the sub-parts or the relevant parts of the files accessed in the network browser. 
     FIG. 7A  depicts a screen shot of the network browser  54  when a user is personalizing data. Users are given the option for personalization of data by being able to put in their own notes and summaries for the web data. Users may also insert, or associate other files  152  with certain network browser files. These portions can be retrieved, exported or simply be reproduced as annotations next time the content is accessed, this kind of tagging of online content along with the highlighting  150  can be shared among multiple users if the system is deployed in an enterprise configuration. Although, it is not viewable, there may be comments that when a mouse is over a highlighted portion (such as  150 ) they may be viewable. For instance, someone may right their thoughts on that portion and the next person to view the webpage would then see these comments. The network browser toolbar  94 , the visible component to the toolbar plug-in  52 , acts like a control panel for all the key functions of the knowledge archival and recollection system  20 . Various modules and their respective functions of the knowledge archival and recollection system  20 , such as the reporting module  30 , searching module  28 , billing module  38 , automatic timing module  36 , may be invoked through the network browser toolbar  94 . This consolidation of control to one network browser toolbar  94  is user-friendly and requires a brief and simple learning process. It is highly structured to give user the maximum usage of the product. It also provides the interfaces for users to access other modules of the product. 
     FIG. 7B  depicts a screenshot  179  of a click stream for cnn.com. As shown, the url for each webpage is (e.g.  181 ,  182 ,  183 ,  184 ,  185 ,  186 ) to track the users movement.  FIG. 7C  depicts a usage report  160 , showing a graphical depiction of a count of username  161  for each username  172 . There is also a chart with the machine name  129 , action  133 , domain name  135 , category  137 , vote  139  and rank  140  for each username  127 . 
     FIG. 8  depicts a screen shot of an application in the knowledge archival and recollection system. Employing an actuation method, a user may invoke an application of the knowledge archival and recollection system  20  In the case of the data acquisition module  26  being an embedded application of the network browser  54 , the actuation method may be “mouse clicking” the field of the desired application on the network browser toolbar  94 . As shown, a date range (from  120  to  121 ) may be selected. The report fields  122 , select criteria  124  and graph options  126  may each be altered according to the user. Within the select criteria  124 , the user may view category  128 , domain  130 , users  132 , rank and vote  134  and other miscellaneous  136  items. 
     FIG. 9  depicts a method of initiating and utilizing the data acquisition module  26  according to the present invention. The method may include; (step  200 ) initiating a network browser plug-in  50  upon a user opening a network browser  54 ; (step  202 ) navigating by the user to at least one file in the network browser  54 ; (step  204 ) reading a configuration file by the network browser plug-in  50  and creating a file transfer connection between the network browser plug-in  50  and the file archive  24 ; and (step  206 ) creating a connection between the network browser plug-in  50  and the database server  22 . The network browser plug-in  50  may be in communication with the file archive  24  and the database server  22  by way of a database connectivity module  44 . The next step (step  208 ) may be transmitting and storing at least one file accessed by the user on the file archive  24  using a file transfer connection. The file accessed may be but is not limited to web-based document, word processing document, spreadsheet document, portable document format, XML file, a text file, a web-based file, a media file, and an audio file. The next step (step  210 ) may be gathering data related to the file by the network browser plug-in  50 . The data gathered may be user activity information, system information and environment information. Next (step  212 ) may be associating the data with the file accessed, transmitting and storing the data to a database server  22  using a database connection protocol. Step  214  may be indexing the file transmitted and stored on the file archive  24  by the file archive indexer  32 . 
     FIG. 10  depicts a method of enhancing files accessed in the network browser  54 . The method may include the steps, Step  220 : initiating a file enhancement by performing an actuation. The actuation may be actuating an icon in the toolbar of the network browser  54 , an icon in the system tray, and icon in a free-floating toolbar. The actuation may also hot key activation or context menu selection. Step  222 : Prompting the user to select the form of enhancement. The form of enhancement may be but is not limited to highlighting, note addition, annotation, comment addition, footnote appending, endnote appending, and file insertion. Step  224 , presenting the user with file enhancement interface. Step  226 : inputting by the user a file enhancement. Step  228 : recording the file enhancement and associating it with the current file accessed by the user in the network browser  54 . Step  229 : may be creating a transparent layer over the file. Step  230  may be temporarily recording the file enhancement properties. Step  231 : transmitting the file enhancement data collected by the toolbar plug-in  52  to the network browser plug-in  50 . Step  232 : transmitting and storing the file enhancement data to the database server  22 . The file enhancements may be toggled between visible and invisible with respect to a user display. The user and/or system administrator may also control access to the file enhancements by any of a number of users. 
     FIG. 11  depicts a method of displaying file enhancements previously recorded. The method may include the steps of Step  240 : Providing a user with a unique user identifier. Step  242 : accessing at least one file using the network browser  50 . Step  244 : Obtaining by the network browser plug-in  50  the network address associated with the at least one file. Step  246 : Searching the file archive  24  for archived files related to the at least one files network address. Step  246 : Comparing any archived file found relating to the at least one files network address to the at least one file. Step  248 : Searching the database server  22  for data related to the network address of the at least one file accessed by the network browser. Related data may be file enhancements, such as but not limited to comments, highlights, and rankings. Step  250  retrieving and displaying any related file enhancements found on the database server  22 . Step  252  displaying file enhancements transparently over the at least one file in the network browser window. Step  254 : displaying file enhancements (maybe as a list). 
     FIG. 12  depicts the messenger monitoring module  34  according to a preferred embodiment. Messaging is an important and widely used channel of communication in both personal and business capacities. Monitoring data exchanged via messenger programs is important to individuals or businesses that wish to keep record of all forms of electronic communication or merely observe users messenger activities. The knowledge archival and recollection system  20  may have a messenger monitor module  34  for the function of auditing and recording user activity in a messenger application  60 . The messenger monitor module may be in communication with a messenger application  60  and the database server  22 . The messenger monitor module  34  may also be in communication with a database connectivity module  44 . The messenger application  60  may be but is not limited to AOL Instant Messenger, ICQ, Windows Messaging, or other similar chatting programs. The messenger monitor module  34  may be a stand-alone program residing on a users computer, or may be a plug-in embedded in a users messenger application  60 . The messenger monitor module  34  may sit on the back of the messenger application  60  and may be visible or invisible to the user. The messenger monitor module  34  may be selected from the group consisting of visible plug-in, invisible plug-in and in built plug-in. The messenger monitor module  34  may be programmed to collect user activity data, which may be user activity information, system information, and environment information, and transmit the information to the database server  22  or store the information locally. The user activity data collected is extensive in nature and may be used as the base for a variety of analytics and reports executed by the search module  28  and the report module  30 . 
     FIG. 13  depicts the search module according to the present embodiment. The search module  28  is comprised of a user search interface  70 , a search engine  72 , a result analyzer  74 , and a click-stream visualization module  76 . The search module  28  may be a standalone module residing on the users computer, or may reside on the server side of the system. The user search interface  70  is in communication with the search engine  72 , the search engine is in communication with the database server  22 , the file archive  24  and the file archive indexer  32 . The result analyzer  74  and click-stream visualization module  76  are in communication with the database server  22 , file archive  24  and the file archive indexer  32 , and the user search interface  70 . The user search interface  70  may be embedded in the user&#39;s network browser window, may be a web based interface or a standalone module on the users computer. 
   The search module  28  of the knowledge archival and recollection system  20  provides multi parameter search facilities for the retrieval of user activity data stored on the database server, or files stored on the file archive. The search module  28  provides the user with a variety of search options and result visualization options. 
   Users may invoke the user search interface  70  by an actuation method. The actuation method may be actuating an icon located in the network browser toolbar, or an icon in the system tray of the operating system. In the case of the user search interface  70  being a web-based interface, it may be invoked either through the toolbar of the network browser or by accessing a specific web address. When a user is presented with the user search interface  70 , the user may input parameters according to which the user would like to search the knowledge archival and recollection system  20 . The types of input parameters may be customized to the specific needs of the user. The input parameters will essentially pertain to the user activity data stored on the database server  22  or the content of files stored on the file archive  24 . Examples of input parameters for the search user interface  70  are keyword, time, user information, system information and client information. The user search interface  70  may transmit the input parameters entered by the user to the search engine  72 . The search engine  72  is programmed to convert the parameters transmitted from the user search interface  70  into a search query. The search engine  72  may transmit the search query to the database server  22 , file archive indexer  32  and the file archive  24 . 
   Results from the query initiated by the search engine  72  are transmitted to the result analyzer  74  and the click stream visualization module  76 . The result analyzer and the click stream visualization module process these query results, and transmit the processed results to the user search interface. Process functions executed by the result analyzer  74  may be dynamic, such as ranking and categorization. The click stream visualization module  76  generates a visual depiction of the logical actions taken by a user while browsing in the network browser. Click streams may also be searchable so that multiple users working on similar subjects may access relevant click streams from previous researchers. Processed results are transmitted to the user search interface  70  from the result analyzer  74  and the click stream visualization module  76  and are displayed to the user. 
     FIG. 14  depicts a screen shot  93  of an example search according to the preferred embodiment. In this example search may be for a user to input parameters for files accessed from Jan. 15 2004 (input field  95 ) to Jan. 19, 200 (input field  97 ), by user ( 98 ) developer  1 , with a keyword  99  of CNN. The user may input the search parameters in the appropriate fields of the user search interface. Given this is a valid search for which stored information exists on the knowledge archival and recollection system  20 , the user will be presented with appropriate files, and respective user activity information that match the search parameters. For each resulting file, the user may be presented with the file as archived, user information associated with the file as archived, the online file associated with the file as archived, as well as the click stream. The click stream is a visual depiction of the browsing steps taken by the user to reach the respective file. The resulting files may depicted as thumb nail images, as well as full size images, not merely textual information. Click stream elements may also be shown as visual indicators such as web page thumbnails, not merely just textual information. 
     FIG. 15  depicts a method of initiating and performing a search according to the preferred embodiment. Step  260 : initiating the search module  28  upon recognizing a user actuation. The user may actuate an icon in the network browser window, the system tray, a hot key activation, or a context menu selection. The user may also initiate the search module  28  by starting a standalone program on the users computer or accessing a specific web address. Step  262 : presenting the user with a user search interface prompting the user to enter parameters according to which a report will be created. The parameters may be related to user activity, system information, file content, environment information and file enhancement. Step  264  receiving the input parameters from the user search interface. Step  266 : determining the query type based on the input parameters received. Step  266 : formulating a database query based on search parameters. Step  268  transmitting the database query to the database server  22 . Step  270 : formulating a keyword query If a keyword parameter is present Step  272 : obtaining the keyword query results from the file archive indexer  32  and transmitting the results to the result analyzer. Step  274 , obtaining the database query results from the database server, and transmitting the results to the result analyzer. Step  276 : determining the intersection of the keyword query results and database query results. Step  278 : transmitting the intersection of results to the result analyzer and click stream visualization module. Step  280 : analyzing the query results. Step  282 : Returning the results to the user through the user search interface. The results may be displayed as thumbnails, visual depiction of the click stream, archived web-pages, actual online content and file enhancements. Step  284 : transmitting the database query results, keyword query results, and the input parameters to the report module  30 , and generating a report. 
     FIG. 16  depicts the report module according to the present embodiment. The report module  30  may be in communication the database server  22 , the search module  28 , and the billing module  30 . The report module may also be in communication with the file archive  24 , and the file archive indexer  32  and a mail server  88 . The report module  30  may be a standalone module residing on the users computer, or may reside on the server side of the system. 
   The report module  30  is comprised of a user report interface  80 , a report engine  86 , a report generator  82 , and a report viewer  84 . The user report interface  80  is in communication with the report engine  86 , and the report viewer  84 . The user report interface  84  may be embedded in a user&#39;s network browser window, may be a web based interface or a standalone module on the users computer. The report engine  86  is in communication with the database server  22 , the file archive  24 , and the file archive indexer  32 , the report generator  82 , and the user report interface  80 . The report engine  86  may also be in communication with a mail server  88 , and a database connectivity module  44 . The report generator  82  is in communication with the report engine  86  and the report viewer  84 . The report generator  82  may be web based, and may be selected from the group consisting of crystal reports, ASP.net, and XML. 
   The report module  30  of the knowledge archival and recollection system  20  provides multi parameter report facilities for the retrieval of user activity data stored on the database server, or files stored on the file archive, and the generation of reports incorporating this information. The report module  30  provides the user with a variety of report options and result visualization options. 
   Users may invoke the user report interface  80  by an actuation method. The actuation method may be actuating an icon located in the network browser toolbar, or an icon in the system tray of the operating system. In the case of the user report interface  80  being a web-based interface, it may be invoked either through the toolbar of the network browser or by accessing a specific web address. When a user is presented with the user report interface  70 , the user may input parameters according to which the user would like a report generated. According to these parameters, the stored information on the knowledge archival and recollection system  20  will be searched, and a report generated. The types of input parameters may be customized to the specific needs of the user. The input parameters will essentially pertain to the user activity data collected by the data acquisition module. Examples of input parameters for the report user interface  80  are keyword, time, user information, system information and client information. The user report interface  80  may transmit the input parameters entered by the user to the report engine  86 . The report engine  86  is programmed to convert the search parameters transmitted from the user report interface  80  into a report query. The report engine  86  may transmit the report query to the database server  22 . Query results from the database server  22  may be transmitted to the report generator  82 . The report generator  82  processes the query results, and transmits the processed results to the report viewer  84 . Both the report generator  82  and the report viewer  84  may be customized. The reports may be customized per the requirements of the organization. For example, this may include graphics, logos, selection parameters, etc. Generated reports may transmitted to the database server  22 . Storing previously generated reports on the database server prevents redundant report generation. 
   Users may generate the same report with the same parameters multiple times, because previously generated reports are stored on the database server. The previously generated report will be returned and displayed to the user thus minimizing work carried out by the knowledge archival and recollection system  20 . 
   Generated reports may be automatically sent from the report engine  86  to a mail server  88 . Users may often be working for an employer, or on behalf of a client, who frequently requires user activity reports. To streamline the task of reporting to employers or clients, it may desirable for generated reports to be automatically transmitted to at least one specific email address. 
     FIG. 17  depicts a screen shot of the user report interface  80  according to a preferred embodiment. This screen shot shows an example user report interface  80 . The user report interface presents the user with an interface with a multitude of parameter fields  81 . The user may input parameters into the respective fields parameters according to which the user would like a report generated. The user may also select what type of report they would like to have generated. The user may also select the type of user information they would like to have displayed in the generated report. In this case, the user has input parameters requesting a report for users: USER 1, USER 2, and USER 3 (as indicated by checked of boxes in filed  106 ) between the dates from  102  Jan. 1, 2004 and to  104  Jan. 31, 2004. The user has also selected the optional field  108  of description and title. The user has also selected the report type  109  user report  110 . Given this is a valid report request, for which information exists stored on the knowledge archival and recollection system  20 , the user will be presented with a report according to the input parameters. 
     FIG. 18  depicts screen shot of the report viewer  84  according to a preferred embodiment. After submitting a report request via the user report interface  80 , the user is presented with the report results. The results are displayed according to the user report type selected in the user report interface  80 . The user is also presented with the specific types of information requested. As shown, the report shows a Username  104 , date and time  106 , url  108  and title  110 . The present invention also provides a graphical representation  112  of websites visited. 
     FIG. 19  depicts the method of implementing the report module according to a preferred embodiment. The method may include the following steps. Step  300  launching the report module  30  after recognizing a user actuation. The actuation may be clicking of an icon in the in the network browser window, the system tray of the operating system, a free floating toolbar, a hot key activation, or a context menu selection. The user may also initiate the report module  30 ; by starting a standalone program on the users computer or accessing a specific web address may also initiate the report module  30 . Step  302 : launching a reporting engine. Step:  304 , presenting the user with a user report interface, prompting the user to enter parameters according to which a report will be created. Step  306 : receiving the report parameters. Step  308 : formulating a query. Step  308 : configuring a report generator according to the report parameters. Step  310 : transmitting the query to the database server  22 . Step  312 : searching archived reports for reports that have been previously generated according to the same parameters. Step  314 : returning a previously generated report if one exists. Step  316 : Obtaining query results from the database server  22 . Step  318 : loading the query results into a report generator. Step  320 : Generating a report Step  322 : displaying the report in the report viewer. 
     FIG. 20  depicts the automatic timing module  36  of the knowledge archival and recollection system  20 . The automatic timing module  36  is in communication with the database server  22 . The automatic timing module  36  may also be in communication with a database connectivity module  44 . The automatic timing module  36  may be a standalone program on a user&#39;s computer, or may be an embedded application to the knowledge archival and recollection system  20 . 
   As more and more work is being performed in a computer environment, there is an increased need for worker accountability. Keeping track of billable time in itself may also be time consuming, as such the knowledge archival and recollection system  20  includes an automatic timing module  36 . The main function of the automatic timing module  36  is to time and record the duration of user activities in a computer environment without the hassle of extensive direct user input into a timing system. 
   Time logs generated by the automatic timing module  36 , are transmitted and stored on the database server  22 . The time logs in conjunction with their respective user activity records recorded by the data acquisition module  26  facilitate the requirements of the search module  28 , billing module  38  and report module  30 . User activity includes both activity online in the network browser  54 , and offline in any applications on a users operating system. The application to be timed may also be chosen by the user using a simple selection menu in the network browser toolbar. These applications may be, but are not limited to, word processing applications, Internet applications or spreadsheet applications. 
     FIG. 21  depicts a method of timing user activity according to a preferred embodiment. The method may include the steps, Step  330 : configuring an automatic time tracking module. Step  332 : logging into the knowledge archival and recollection system  20  by the user. Step  334 : Prompting the user with a task identifier input interface, upon a user opening an application interface. Step  336  initiating a timer. The timer may be initiated when a user logs into the system  20  or may automatically start upon the user opening an application, or may begin timing upon user actuation. The task identifier may include client identifier, a case number, task description. Step  338  deactivating the timer. The timer may be deactivated upon user logout from the knowledge archival and recollection system  20 , an inactive application interface, or manual user deactivation by performing an actuation. 
     FIG. 22  depicts the billing module  38 . The billing module  38  is in communication with the report module  30 , and the database server  22 . The billing module  38  may also be in communication with the database connectivity module  44 . A main component to the functionality of the knowledge archival and recollection system  20  is the function of billing. Hand in hand with archiving knowledge and auditing time spent working in a computer environment is generating bills or invoices for billable work. As such, the knowledge archival and recollection system  20  may also have a billing module  38 , which may automatically generate a billing report based on the data stored in the database server  22 . The billing module  38  may also be in communication with the report module  30  because a bill can be characterized as a specific type of report. When the billing module  38  is initiated, a user is presented with a billing module interface. The user may input parameters into the billing module input interface. These parameters are transformed into a query and transmitted to the database server  22 . A result analyzer analyzes results from the database server query. And a report generator generates a report based on these analyzed results. A user may also manually input their own billing items into the billing module  38 . This may allow users to input billing data for work done not in the computer environment, providing flexible all inclusive billing functionality. 
     FIG. 23  depicts a method of running the billing module according to a preferred embodiment. The method may include the steps Step  350 : initiating the billing module by a user actuation. Step  352 : presenting the user with a billing module user interface, prompting the user to input parameters for the billing report to be generated. Step  354 : reading supporting data from a configuration file. Step  356 : formulating a query from the parameters input by the user. Step  358 : transmitting the query to the database server. Step  360 : obtaining the results from the database server. Step  362 : analyzing the results. Step  364 : generating a report by the report generator. Step  366 : presenting the billing report to the user in the report viewer interface. The billing report format could be customized based on users&#39; requirement. It could have all rates, subtotal, details billing options, brief billing options and etc. Step  368 : transmitting the report to the mail server. 
     FIG. 24  depicts the file archive indexer  32 . The file archive indexer  32  may consist of a front-end indexer  92  and a background indexer  90 . The background indexer  90  is in communication with the file archive  24  and the front-end indexer  92 . The front-end indexer  92  may be in communication with the search module  28  and the report module  30 . 
   As the size of the file archive  24  begins to grow, queries to the file archive  24  from other modules take longer to process. As a result, the information stored in the file archive  24  is indexed so that the file archive  24  is easier to search and is available for faster retrieval. The background indexer  90  may apply at least one indexing algorithm to the file archive  24  to generate an index of the file archive contents. Indexing may be a time and system resource consuming function. Because there is not a high demand for a constantly updated index, indexing may therefore be done at a predetermined time interval. The index generated by the background indexer  90  may be stored on the front-end indexer  92 . By storing an index of the file archive  24  contents on the front-end indexer, the search module  28  and report module  30  queries are processed by the front-end indexer. 
     FIG. 25  depicts the post-processing module  42 , which performs processing functions of the data collected by the data acquisition module. The post-processing module  42  is in communication with the file archive  24  and the data acquisition module  26 . The post processing functions may be saving a thumbnail image of the file accessed, indexing archived file stored in the file archive, indexing data stored on the database serve, ranking the archived documents. The ranking system may be a modified weight scale comprising a user designated ranking, as well as the number of “hits” on the file. Other post-processing functions may be removing redundant information on the file archive, as well as categorization or cluster of archived documents, crating user profiles, crating website profiles, generating user search patterns, compressing/decompressing and encrypting/decrypting files stored on the file archive  24 . 
     FIG. 26  depicts the data presentation module  40  according to a preferred embodiment. The data presentation module is in communication with the report module  30 , search module  28  and database server  22 . Archived data may be presented to the user through various methods. Data presentation includes displaying file modifications to a user as well as the display of report results and search results. The data presentation module  40  may work in conjunction with the data acquisition module  26 . To the user, there may be no appearance of distinct modules. In theory the data presentation module  40  may be a component of the data acquisition module  26 , collectively one program, just different functions. The presentation of file modifications may be performed through the network browser. An example of file modification presentation is when a user may navigate, in a network browser, to a file that has either been previously subject to file modification or currently in, the process of modification. As previously described, file modifications may include annotations, rankings and highlights. The data presentation module  40  retrieves file modifications associated with the respective file accessed, and displays the file modifications to the user through the network browser window. The display of file modifications may be toggled between visible or invisible by a user actuation in a toolbar. 
   Another form of data presentation is the presentation of search results and report results. Through the data acquisition module  26  and the toolbar plug-in  52 , a user may invoke search and report functions that are performed by the search module  28  and report module  30  respectively. Search results generated by the search module  28  are displayed through the search module interface, and reports generated by the report module  30  may be displayed to the user through, the report user interface. Both the search user interface and the report user interface display the results through the network browser. In this case, the network browser plug-in  50  is in communication with the report module  30  and the search module  28 .