Interface and data architecture for query preview in networked informationsystems

There are numerous problems associated with formulating queries on networke d information systems. These include increased data volume and complexity, accompanied by slow network access. This article proposes a new approach to a network query user interfaces that consists of two phases: query preview and query refinement. This new approach is based on the concepts of dynami c queries and query previews, which guides users in rapidly and dynamically eliminating undesired records, reducing the data volume to a manageable si ze, and refining queries locally before submission over a network. Examples of two applications are given: a Restaurant Finder and a prototype for NAS A's Earth Observing Systems Data Information Systems (EOSDIS). Data archite cture is discussed, and user feedback is presented.