Integrating email functionality into a word processor by incorporating an email GUI within the word processor

• Main Authors: Apfel, Darren A, Buchthal, David M, Rayson, Steve, Carlson, Andrew G, Antos, Christopher, Liu, Hai
• Format: Patent
• Language: English
• Published: 11.06.2002

The present invention relates to a system and method for handling electronic mail (email), and more particularly relates to a system and method for integrating the functionality of an email client and a document editing program. An Envelope provides the integration of the functionality of an electronic mail (email) application program and the functionality of a document editor. Users can more easily generate and edit sophisticated documents for email transmission by invoking an Envelope that provides the user with the functions of an email client. A user that is editing a document in a document editor, such as a word processor or spreadsheet application can invoke the Envelope within the user interface of the document editor. The Envelope has its own user interface that is fully functional within the confines of the document editor's user interface to provide the user with the functionality of the email client application program. With the Envelope invoked, the user is enabled to execute many of the email client's functions while still editing the document within the document editor's user interface. Thus, the rich document editing functionality of the document editor is maintained, while the functionality of the email client is simultaneously accessible to the user. Envelope data generated during the editing process is saved with the document and available when the document is next edited or is opened as an email message.