One implementation provides a computer system that is capable of processing task requests from front-end software applications. The computer system is programmed to receive a task request from a front-end software application. The task request includes input values and a task name that is associated with an analytical task of a particular type to be executed. The computer system is also programmed to use the task request to select a subset of the input values needed for execution of the analytical task of the particular type, create a task invocation request that includes the selected input values, and send the task invocation request to an analytical engine.