Patent ID: 6892361

Claim:
A method of performing a task in a processor-based system that includes a monitor and a user input device for controlling information displayed on the monitor, the method comprising: displaying on the monitor a plurality of connector pieces representing respective tasks to be completed, the pieces arranged in a tree reflecting a hierarchy of tasks, wherein each of the connector pieces has a shape that i) corresponds to a type of task, and that ii) is different from the shape of connector pieces corresponding to a different type of task; displaying a plurality of attachment pieces on the monitor, each of the attachment pieces being configured to interconnect with at least one of the connector pieces, wherein each of the attachment pieces has a shape that corresponds to a type of task, such that when the shape of a given connector piece matches the shape of a given attachment piece, then the given attachment piece corresponds to a way of completing the task represented by the given connector piece; using the user input device so that one of the attachment pieces and one of the connector pieces are positioned in close proximity with each other on the monitor, said one attachment piece and said one connector piece having matching shapes that correspond to a particular task selected by a user to be completed, said proximity positioning indicating a desire on the part of a user to complete the particular task; and inputting into the processor information necessary to perform the particular task, wherein the user is prompted for said information following said positioning.