U.S. patent application number 09/484290 was filed with the patent office on 2002-11-28 for interactive marketing network and process using electronic certificates.
This patent application is currently assigned to THOMAS G. SCAVONE. Invention is credited to Cuplinskas, Vytas, Golden, Steven M., Jurewicz, John, Kordas, John, Levin, Hillel, Moog, Matthew, Wilde, Michael.
Application Number | 20020178051 09/484290 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 26754365 |
Filed Date | 2002-11-28 |
United States Patent
Application |
20020178051 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Golden, Steven M. ; et
al. |
November 28, 2002 |
Interactive marketing network and process using electronic
certificates
Abstract
A data processing system issuing ECs through "online" networks
of personal computers, televisions, or other devices with video
monitors or telephones. Each electronic certificate includes
transaction data and identification data, and can be printed out on
a printing device linked to a consumer's personal input device, or
electronically stored in a designated data base until a specified
expiration date. The certificate can be used for various purposes,
including use as a coupon for a discounted price on a product or
service, proof of a gift or award, proof of reservation, or proof
of payment. Consumers access the data processing system online,
browse among their choices, and make their selections. The data
processing system provides reports on the selected certificates and
their use following selection. Certificate issuers also have online
access to the data processing system and can create or revise
offers, and provide various instructions pertaining to the
certificates, including limitations as to the number of
certificates to be issued in total and to each individual
consumer.
Inventors: |
Golden, Steven M.; (Chicago,
IL) ; Levin, Hillel; (River Forest, IL) ;
Kordas, John; (Orland Park, IL) ; Wilde, Michael;
(River Forest, IL) ; Moog, Matthew; (Chicago,
IL) ; Jurewicz, John; (Chicago, IL) ;
Cuplinskas, Vytas; (Riverside, IL) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Thomas G Scavone
Niro Scavone Haller & Niro
181 W Madison Suite 4600
Chicago
IL
60602
US
|
Assignee: |
THOMAS G. SCAVONE
|
Family ID: |
26754365 |
Appl. No.: |
09/484290 |
Filed: |
January 18, 2000 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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09484290 |
Jan 18, 2000 |
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09073334 |
May 6, 1998 |
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09073334 |
May 6, 1998 |
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08507693 |
Jul 25, 1995 |
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5761648 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
705/14.39 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06Q 30/0238 20130101;
G06Q 30/0277 20130101; G06Q 20/38215 20130101; G06Q 30/02 20130101;
G06Q 30/0239 20130101; G06Q 20/045 20130101; G06Q 30/0224 20130101;
G06Q 30/0233 20130101; G06Q 30/0207 20130101; G07F 17/42 20130101;
G06Q 30/0271 20130101; G06Q 20/0457 20130101; G06Q 20/387 20130101;
G06Q 30/0251 20130101; G06Q 30/0236 20130101; G06Q 30/0269
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
705/14 |
International
Class: |
G06F 017/60 |
Claims
We claim:
1. A method for issuing and processing electronic certificates
having both transaction data and identification data, comprising
the steps of: (a) establishing electrical communication between a
service system and a plurality of issuer systems; (b) establishing
electrical communication between the service system and a plurality
of remote user stations; (c) transmitting to the service system
from the plurality of issuer systems instructions for issuing the
electronic certificates; (d) the service system receiving remote
user profile data from the plurality of remote user stations and
developing correlation data which categorizes the remote user
profile data; (e) selectively transmitting to the plurality of
issuer systems from the service system the correlation data; (f)
permitting the plurality of issuer systems to revise the electronic
certificates on an interactive and nearly instantaneous basis; and
(g) selectively transmitting to the plurality of remote user
stations specified electronic certificates based upon the
correlation data developed by the service system.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein the number or type of electronic
certificates to be issued can be limited by the plurality of issuer
systems.
3. The method of claim 1, wherein the issuer system converts the
electronic certificates into tables of transactional information
and target instructions, and further comprising the step of using
the target instructions to determine which remote users are
suitable for viewing a particular electronic certificate.
offer.
4. The method of claim 3, further comprising the step of creating a
table for each remote user which contains remote user profile data
and which is continually updated with information concerning the
use by the remote user of the electronic certificates.
5. The method of claim 1, wherein the service system maintains one
or more databases of the electronic certificates and a history of
their use, and wherein these one or more service system databases
comprise a compilation of such information as provided by the
participating issuer systems.
6. The method of claim 1, wherein the number or type of electronic
certificates accessible to each remote user can be selectively
limited by the issuer systems based upon the correlation data.
7. The method of claim 1, wherein at least some of the remote user
stations are connected to a printer, and further comprising the
step of printing the electronic certificates by the remote user in
a manner that is conditioned by the service system.
8. The method of claim 1, wherein each electronic certificate
includes at least an expiration date, a unique certificate serial
number, and a personal identification number capable of
reproduction in bar-code form.
9. The method of claim 1, further comprising the step of using
electronic mail to alert remote users to the availability of
specific types of electronic certificates.
10. A method for issuing and processing electronic certificates,
comprising the steps of: (a) establishing electrical communication
between a service system and a plurality of issuer systems; (b)
establishing electrical communication between the service system
and a plurality of remote user stations; (c) transmitting to the
service system from the plurality of issuer systems instructions
for issuing a predetermined type and number of the electronic
certificates; (d) the service system receiving remote user profile
data, including information sufficient to specifically identify the
remote user, from the plurality of remote user stations and
developing correlation data which categorizes the remote user
profile data; (e) selectively transmitting to the plurality of
issuer systems from the service system the correlation data without
also transmitting the specific remote user identification
information; and (f) selectively transmitting to the plurality of
remote user stations specified electronic certificates based upon
the correlation data developed by the service system.
11. The method of claim 10, the service system and the remote user
stations are in electronic communication via the Internet.
12. The method of claim 10, wherein the electronic certificates can
be revised by either the service system or by the plurality of
issuers systems on an interactive and nearly instantaneous
basis.
13. The method of claim 10, wherein the issuance of the electronic
certificates to the plurality of remote user stations is
conditioned upon the entry of remote user profile data by the
plurality of remote users to the service system.
14. A method for issuing and processing electronic certificates,
comprising the steps of: (a) establishing electrical communication
between a service system and a plurality of issuer systems; (b)
establishing electrical communication between the service system
and a plurality of remote user stations; (c) transmitting to the
service system from the plurality of issuer systems instructions
for issuing a predetermined type and number of the electronic
certificates; (d) the service system receiving remote user profile
data, including information sufficient to specifically identify the
remote user, from the plurality of remote user stations and
developing correlation data which categorizes the remote user
profile data; (e) selectively transmitting to the plurality of
issuer systems from the service system the correlation data without
also transmitting the specific remote user identification
information; (f) selectively transmitting to the plurality of
remote user stations specified electronic certificates based upon
the correlation data developed by the service system; and (g)
wherein the issuance of the electronic certificates to the
plurality of remote user stations is conditioned upon the entry of
remote user profile data by the plurality of remote users to the
service system.
15. A method for issuing and processing electronic certificates
containing reservation data and having both transaction data and
identification data, comprising the steps of: (a) establishing
electrical communication between a service system and a plurality
of issuer systems, each issuer system including an issuing computer
having an initial set of reservation instructions; (b) establishing
electrical communication between the service system and a plurality
of remote user stations; (c) transmitting to the service system
from the plurality of issuer systems instructions for issuing
number of the electronic certificates; (d) the service system
receiving remote user profile data containing reservation data,
including information sufficient to specifically identify the
remote user, from the plurality of remote user stations and
developing correlation data which categorizes and revises the
initial set of reservation instructions; (e) selectively
transmitting to the plurality of issuer systems from the service
system the correlation data without also transmitting the specific
remote user identification information; and (f) selectively
transmitting to the plurality of remote user stations specified
electronic certificates based upon the correlation data developed
by the service system.
16. The method of claim 15, wherein the reservation data is
contained within the service computer as an electronic reservation
coupon, and further comprising the step of printing the reservation
coupon.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a CON of Ser. No. 09/073,334, which is a
Continuation-In-Part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/507,693
filed Jul. 25, 1995, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,761,648.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention generally relates to the use of an
interactive marketing network. More specifically, the present
invention relates to the interactive use by service providers and
consumers of electronic certificates over online networks.
[0003] Increasingly, consumers are gaining direct access to data
bases for information and entertainment, whether through phone
lines and coaxial cable or by wireless connections from cell
systems and satellites. With this so-called "online" access,
consumers can use data bases for a range of activities at virtually
any time. Besides granting freedom to the consumer, online access
gives added efficiencies to companies merchandising products and
services, whether those products are sold directly to the consumer
by mail or in a store. These certificates typically contain data
(referred to as "transaction data") describing the particular
transaction (e.g., in the case of a coupon, the transaction data
would include a product description, the coupon amount, and the
expiration date). These certificates also typically contain data
(referred to as "identification data") such as various numbers,
letters, barcodes or other symbols sufficient to uniquely identify
each certificate.
[0004] The need arises for creation of an online "electronic
certificate" that can be used for promotional or transactional
purposes, much as coupons have been used in such traditional
marketing vehicles as newspapers and mail packs. Beyond offering a
discount as an incentive to buy a featured product, the coupon is
also currency, printed in quantities limited by the issuer and
often carrying unique serial numbers, expiration dates and "source
codes" which indicate the means by which it was distributed (e.g.
newspaper, mail list, in-store dispenser, etc.), so issuers can
track the effectiveness of each marketing medium.
[0005] Known coupon dispensing systems fail to interactively
communicate between a service center and a third party, as pointed
out in U.S. Pat. No. 5,303,197 to Axler. While the Axler patent
permits an operator to periodically "visit" a dispensing machine,
this does not allow "real time" interactivity (e.g., it does not
permit the operator to access and analyze demographical data
contemporaneous with its input). Nor does Axler (or any other known
prior art systems) envision the creation of an online "electronic
certificate," as will be described below.
[0006] Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to
provide a method and system, which can successfully emulate the
attributes of a coupon over an online network so that an
"electronic coupon" or "EC" is created. Such a system would allow
EC issuers to interactively communicate and transact with remote
users/consumers.
[0007] Another object of the present invention is to reduce the
expense associated with the creation of a data base of
consumer/user information as is incurred with conventional targeted
mail systems, by providing a system in which issuer systems share a
user data base, while also sharing the cost of creating that data
base.
[0008] The present invention further enables the issuer to
efficiently act on the information provided by the data base. As a
result, for example, issuers can target 25%-off ECs exclusively to
those who have not previously responded to 20%-off ECs.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] These and other objects are accomplished by the present
invention, which overcomes the disadvantages of conventional
marketing network systems, while providing new unique advantages to
a marketing network system.
[0010] The present invention provides a data processing system and
method which permits consumers to remotely access a data base
online and obtain and/or use electronic certificates or "ECs".
Direct access to consumers is provided, so that the ECs of the
present invention exceed the capabilities of traditional coupons,
thus giving EC issuers a greater degree of control in targeting the
offer, restricting its use and tracking both the selection and
redemption process. The controls of the data processing system of
the present invention also make it possible for service providers,
such as restaurants and hotels, to use an online ECs as a
promotional means.
[0011] In one preferred embodiment, the data processing system of
the present invention identifies and marks each EC with a number
(which can be represented in a barcode) distinguishing it from all
other certificates. Coupon issuers can go online to create the ECs
and to specify controls that restrict the total number of
certificates issued as well as the number to be issued to each
individual.
[0012] The data processing system of the present invention also
preferably issues reports as soon as the consumers choose an EC
from the data base and have it downloaded to their resident storage
systems, such as remote computer terminals. Reports can be
generated that show whether the consumer had the certificate
printed with the consumer's printer or had it sent, as a computer
record, back to the service data base. All of these reports can
assist the issuer in research, security, and confirmation of a
purchase or reservation.
[0013] In another preferred embodiment, the data processing system
of the present invention can issue ECs created by an operator, and
permits the storing and retrieval of data pertaining to the EC
entered by users of a communicating first set of remote computer
terminals. This embodiment includes a service system including a
first computer processor for processing data and a first computer
storage system for storing data on a storage medium. Also included
is an issuer system including a second computer processor for
processing data and a second computer storage system for storing
data on a storage medium. The issuer system permits the operator to
provide the service system with instructions for issuing a
predetermined type and number of the ECs. The service system is in
selective electrical communication with both the issuer system and
each of the remote computer terminals. Preselected identification
data stored within either the first or the second computer storage
systems and useable by either the first or the second computer
processors is used to provide the first computer processor with
appropriate instructions for associating each of the issued ECs
with one or more identifying symbols. Users of the remote computer
terminals are then permitted to controllably access the ECs.
[0014] A process for providing an interactive marketing system
capable of using ECs that can be accessed online by remote computer
terminals linked within a computer network also forms part of the
present invention. In this embodiment, an online network is
provided including an issuing site having a first computer
processor and a first computer storage system, and a service site
having a second computer processor and a second computer storage
system. The issuing site and the service site are in electrical
communication, and the service site and each of the remote computer
terminals are also in electrical communication. Instructions for
issuing a predetermined number of ECs are transmitted from the
issuing site to the service site, with each of the certificates
including transaction data. The service site, upon receiving these
instructions, revises the ECs by providing the issued ECs with
unique identification data. The revised ECs can then be accessed by
users of the remote computer terminals. Consumer data entered by
the remote computer terminal users can be provided to the service
site, and then selectively transmitted to the issuing site. Each of
these steps can be selectively repeated, as required.
[0015] In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention,
a process for selectively storing, retrieving and transmitting
reservation data is provided. A computer operating system is
provided, including an issuing site with an issuing computer having
an initial set of reservation instructions, and a service site with
a service computer also having the initial set of reservation
instructions. The issuing and service computers of the computer
operating system are in electrical communication. Next, updated
reservation data is transmitted from remote computer terminals
electronically linked to the service computer. The updated
reservation data is used by the service computer to revise the
initial set of reservation instructions, resulting in a revised set
of reservation instructions contained within the service computer.
Now, data pertaining to the revised set of reservation instructions
is transmitted from the service computer to the issuing computer.
The data pertaining to the reservation instructions can be
contained within the service computer in the form of an electronic
reservation coupon, which can be printed by the remote computer
terminal users. Again, these steps can be selectively repeated, as
required.
[0016] In its broadest embodiment, the system of the present
invention is used to create an EC. This system includes a computer
system that can process and store data. The computer system is
capable of creating a plurality of ECs. The ECs contain at least
unique identification data, and may also contain transaction date,
which can be accessed by remote users linked to the computer
system.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0017] The novel features which are characteristic of the present
invention are set forth in the appended claims. However, the
invention's preferred embodiments, together with further objects
and attendant advantages, will be best understood by reference to
the following detailed description taken in connection with the
accompanying drawings in which:
[0018] FIG. 1 depicts the flow of information in one preferred
embodiment of the present invention, which is a system for
delivering online coupons to consumers;
[0019] FIG. 2 is a flowchart of a software routine for a coupon
issuer according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0020] FIG. 3 is a flowchart of a software routine for the online
coupon service provider according to this embodiment;
[0021] FIG. 4 is a flowchart of a software routine for the consumer
using the coupon service according to this embodiment;
[0022] FIG. 5 depicts the flow of information in an alternative
embodiment of the present invention, which provides restaurant
reservations;
[0023] FIG. 6 is a flowchart of a software routine for the
embodiment of FIG. 5;
[0024] FIG. 7 is a flowchart of a software routine for the
reservation service provider according to this embodiment;
[0025] FIG. 8 is a flowchart of a software routine for the consumer
using the reservation service; and
[0026] FIG. 9 is a schematic view showing the "triangular"
electronic communication scheme for using ECs of the present
invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0027] The present invention will shortly be described by reference
to specific embodiments. However, in its broadest form, the
invention is most advantageously implemented using a "triangular"
scheme (FIG. 9) in which a number of issuers (e.g., retailers)
maintain selective or continuous electronic communication with a
service system, while a number of remote users (e.g., consumers
using personal computers) can selectively access the service system
"online" in real time either by using a direct telephonic hook-up
or via the Internet or other communication media.
[0028] In a preferred embodiment, issuers create, modify or cancel
offers ("offer entry") from their own facilities. This may be
accomplished using the issuer's own computers and special offer
entry software in such well-known application formats as Visual
Basic. The issuer offer entry software can also be made available
in an HTML format so that it is accessible by the issuer's computer
through the Internet or other electronic network. If the former,
the system provides a way for the issuer to first create and proof
the offers "off-line" and then, through a direct electronic
hook-up, to synchronize the offers from the issuer system with the
service system. If the issuer system is Internet-based, the service
system provides unique access to a special site where offers may be
proofed online and then synchronized with the service system.
[0029] The issuer system converts offers into tables of
transactional information and target instructions. The latter
indicate which remote users are suitable for viewing the offer. A
table is also created for each remote user, which contains such
information provided during registration (e.g., address, gender,
etc.), and is also continually updated with information about the
remote user's activities on the service system (e.g., offers that
have been downloaded or "clipped"). Each time the remote user
accesses the service system, the database creates an updated table
for the remote user that is then compared with the various target
tables for the offers that are active at the time of access. The
remote user may then view and otherwise access all the offers
allowed to that user by the target tables.
[0030] Unlike previous systems, the database(s) of transactions or
offers maintained by the service system is a compilation of such
information provided by all of the participating issuer systems. In
this manner, important cost efficiencies are provided for the
service system, since all of the issuer systems are effectively
sharing in the cost of creating a huge collective database.
[0031] An important benefit of the present invention is the ability
it imparts to both issuers and remote users to participate in a
transaction (e.g., coupon delivery) on a "real time" and
interactive basis. Thus, an issuer/advertiser can create or modify
offers nearly instantaneously, in reaction to current events (e.g.,
competitive pressures, weather, regional overstock, etc.), or can
limit offers by changing offer expiration dates or targeting the
offer to limited zip codes or demographic profiles.
[0032] The present invention allows the remote user the ability to
download an EC (e.g., coupons, reservation information, etc.) and
to either attach it to another file or to print out a certificate
as a reminder or coupon good for redemption at an appropriate
outlet (e.g., store, restaurant, travel agency, ticket office,
etc.). Each download is a transaction affixed with a unique serial
number. A record of that number is then maintained in the remote
user's table. If the issuer has permitted only one download (i.e.,
coupon) per household, the process of downloading will update the
remote user's table so that the offer can no longer be viewed or
accessed on the service system.
[0033] The ECs may be printed using a printer associated with a
remote user's personal computer. In a preferred embodiment, before
the print-out can be made, the remote user must obtain a special
program from the service system. This program resides on the remote
user's computer operating system like other software applications
(e.g., Microsoft Word, Lotus 1-2-3). This program becomes the
repository for the downloaded indicia for the EC. Using
pre-installed templates, a graphic image is then assembled which
incorporates the indicia (including the unique serial code for the
transaction). The indicia are encrypted so as to be illegible to
any other program. Besides presenting the remote user with the list
of downloaded ECs, the program also limits the remote user printer,
so that it makes only one "print" of each certificate. If the
remote user is permitted more than one certificate by the issuer,
then the remote user must download another certificate.
[0034] The printer program provides benefits to both the issuer and
remote user. It assures a quality print-out. The issuer has no need
to display the actual graphic image of the certificate on the
remote user's computer screen (i.e., the first time the user sees
the actual coupon is when it emerges from the printer). The issuer
can then prevent the remote user from altering the offer on the
user's computer screen with cut-and-paste computer graphics
programs. The program prints the unique serial code on the
certificate so that it can be tracked back to the specific remote
user who had downloaded it. The program can also personalize the
certificate by printing out the remote user's name.
[0035] Parallel processing and load balancing may also be provided
to improve capacity and response time. The service system's ability
to process a larger number of shopper requests concurrently can be
accomplished by loosely coupling several computers to provide the
visual interface screens to the shopper. A single computer selects
one computer from a pool of computers to conduct the shopper's
entire session of transactions with the service system. This
computer, designated as the "rotor", can use a variety of selection
techniques, including the simple technique of "round robin", to
determine which pool computer to use to handle the shopper's
session.
[0036] The point of Internet referral to the service system may
also be used to target remote users. As a result, remote users who
go first to an issuer's own Internet site may have their table
marked when they next go to the service system, so that whenever
they return to the service system, they view "exclusive offers"
that other remote users will not see. This may be a way to reward
frequent customers or special segments of customers.
[0037] The issuer system of the present invention can also
customize what is printed on the coupon to include information that
is customized to the remote user's profile table (e.g., the address
of the issuer's outlets nearest to the remote user's zip code, such
as a designated airport of embarkation to qualify for a special
airfare discount).
[0038] The service system of the present invention can also
increase the impact of offers by automatically generating prompts
that alert the remote user through the electronic network via
electronic mail or "E-mail". These alerts may be enabled by the
remote user through the creation of a shopping list requesting
alerts for certain categories of offers or specific issuers. Alerts
may also be generated by the issuer system during offer
creation.
[0039] During offer creation, the issuer system may also designate
a specific series of unique numbers that will be attached to each
EC download and appear on the print-out. These numbers can then be
matched against the issuer's own centralized database when the
certificate is presented for redemption. The issuer database can
both check the validity of the number and then close the file for
that number to preempt unauthorized copying. Thus, the system
provides a higher degree of security for certificates that bear
greater liability for issuers than most coupons (e.g., gift
certificates or tickets). Distributing these more valuable
certificates through the Internet can yield significant savings in
the cost of printing, handling and postage.
[0040] An outline of preferred Internal Process Logic for the
Service System of the present invention is described below.
[0041] Experience has shown that a relational database employing
the SQL database language can meet the demands of the service
system described above. The following algorithms have been found to
facilitate the necessary targeting functions.
[0042] The database contains tables whose rows represent an
instance of the following types of objects:
[0043] Shopper--one row for each registered shopper
[0044] Offer--one row for each promotional offer created by the
issuer system
[0045] Target--one row for each target specification created by the
issuer system. This record specifies what type of attribute
specifications the target must match (e.g., geography,
demographics, or shopping preferences).
[0046] Target Demographics--one row for each target that specifies
targeting by selective demographics
[0047] Target Geography--One or more rows for each target which
specifies targeting by a specific geographical region. Each target
which does this would have one row in this table for each unique
geographical code specified by the target (e.g., area code and zip
code for US targets; other types of targets are possible--e.g.
dominant market area, region, state, province, county, etc.).
[0048] Target Preferences--One or more rows for each target which
specifies targeting by a shopping preference. Each target that does
this would have one row in this table for each unique product
category code specified by the target. These category codes can be
used to target shoppers that have either clipped EC's of a
particular category of merchandise or service, or have indicated
via a personal interest list ("shopping list") that they would like
to receive promotions of a specific category.
[0049] Offer Target--Typically, each offer is linked to a specific
target using a single row in this table. The implementation,
however, allows a single offer to be shown to various sets of
shoppers by associating it with more than one target.
[0050] Coupon--A row is created in this table for each EC that is
transmitted to a shopper.
[0051] Records in the offer and target tables and the related
target tables are created by transferring similar records from a
private database in the issuer system into the database of the
service system.
[0052] Creating a promotional offer in the service system requires
that a target specification first be created in the service system
database. Once a target is created, one or more promotional offers
can reference that target specification as their offers.
[0053] Creating a target is accomplished by creating a record in
the target table, along with one or more rows in the
TargetDemographics, TargetGeography, and/or TargetCategories
tables. A built-in target called "All Shoppers" is created when the
service system is initialized, which allows a promotion to be
targeted at all shoppers in the database.
[0054] Offers and targets in the service system database can be
created, modified, or removed at any time by actions of the issuer
system. At any instant in time, shoppers using the service system
will see the offers that are currently targeted at them, based on
their personal attributes and clipping histories matching the
specification of an offer's associated target.
[0055] The service system performs the following actions on behalf
of the shoppers that it serves:
[0056] (1) Shoppers can register with the service system by filling
out a form that contains their demographic and geographic
information. When the registration form is received, a record of
the shopper's attributes is made in the Shopper table. The shopper
is given a shopper identification number by which he or she can
return to use the service system at any later point in time.
[0057] (2) Shoppers can indicate by filling out a form on the
service system that they have an interest in specific categories of
merchandise or services. This information is stored in a
ShoppingList table, indexed by the shopper's identification
number.
[0058] (3) When a shopper completes registration, or when they
return to use the service system at a later date, they begin a
"usage session" with the service system. If they are returning at a
later date, they must identify themselves by presenting their
shopper identification number to the service system. The service
system then performs a search on the database tables using the SQL
language, to determine what types of promotional offers are
targeted to them. The results of this query are used by the service
system to determine what types of visual control buttons each
unique shopper should see. Visual control buttons that request
lists of promotional offers of a type not targeted to the shopper
will not be seen by the shopper, thus reducing shopper frustration
at encountering buttons which yield no targeted offers. Also,
certain specially highlighted offers are also selectively shown to
the shopper, depending on whether those offers are targeted at the
shopper's attributes (demographical, geographical, or
categorical)
[0059] (4) The shopper's identity and session state information are
kept in a per-session file, and are maintained by the service
system as the shopper moves from page to page of the visual
interface of the service system.
[0060] (5) As the shopper uses various visual controls to query the
service system to display various types of offers, the following
steps are performed to locate promotions to display to the
shopper:
[0061] (A) The Target table is searched to determine what targets
apply to the shopper.
[0062] (B) The OfferTarget table is searched to determine what
offers apply to these targets.
[0063] (C) The Offer table is searched to locate offers applying to
these targets which are not expired, and are in an "enabled"
state.
[0064] (D) The Coupon table is searched next to ensure that the
shopper has not already clipped the maximum number of EC's that the
limitation of the offer permits.
[0065] The offers that meet all of these filtering criteria are
then displayed to the shopper in a list. Each offer in the list is
shown with a visual control marked "clip" that enables the shopper
to request the transmission of an EC for that offer to be
transmitted to their computer for eventual printing as a coupon or
other type of promotion or paper certificate.
[0066] Once the EC is transmitted, a record of that transmission is
made in the Coupon table. The visual interface screen of the
service system is then redrawn if the action of clipping the EC has
made the shopper no longer eligible to receive additional EC's for
that particular promotional offer, based on a per-shopper quantity
limitation of the offer.
[0067] Alternative embodiments of the present invention may also be
provided to handle special situations. For example, multiple
shopper households can be handled as follows. To create a service
which is better geared to the way that many households shop for
goods and services, the system described above may be augmented by
adding a table called "Household" to the database. When a shopper
registers, the shopper is asked to supply information on both the
residents of the household, and on each potential user of the
service system within the household. The shoppers within a
household are connected to the per-household information via
database table relations. One shopper within the household is
designated as the household's primary shopper. The target and offer
lookup mechanisms have been augmented to show the primary shopper
any promotional offer that would be targeted to any member of the
household.
[0068] "Look-aside caching" may also be provided to improve
response time. With "look-aside caching", the service system may
maintain additional tables that remember which targets apply to a
particular shopper, or which coupons are and/or are not eligible
for further clipping by that shopper. These additional tables allow
the service system to make faster decisions about what a shopper is
permitted to see and/or to clip.
[0069] Further aspects of the preferred embodiment of the present
invention will now be described, with regard to a data processing
system and method for use in dispensing and using ECs such as
coupons over online systems. FIG. 1 is an overview of this
preferred embodiment, showing how the information and activities
flow from creation of the EC to its selection and printing by the
consumer, and its ultimate redemption. The process starts with a
coupon issuer 1 who creates the coupon instructions (which will
typically include the transaction data) and downloads them to a
service data base 2 which receives the instructions and assigns the
identification data and issue restrictions. The service data base 2
can then display the active coupon files to the consumer, and make
the designated amount available for downloading to the consumer's
personal computer (PC) 3 or other input device. The consumer's PC 3
may download no more ECs than the number specified in the
instructions of the coupon issuer 1.
[0070] Anytime before a coupon file's expiration date, the consumer
may redeem it. Two redemption methods are shown in FIG. 1. First,
the electronic coupon can be printed with a printer attached to the
consumer PC 3 or other input device. Since files relating to the
electronic coupon remain in the storage device of the consumer's PC
even after the consumer signs off with the service data base 2, the
consumer can quickly disconnect from the online system, and print
the coupon later, at his/her leisure. Printed on the coupon 6 would
be the expiration date, a unique serial number (distinguishing that
coupon from all others) and a barcode with the personal
identification number (PIN) of the consumer. This identification
data is preferably assigned by the service data base 2; the PIN
number can be pre-assigned to individual consumers when they
register for the system. That printed coupon can then be submitted
during check-out from a participating retail outlet and the stated
credit would be deducted from the consumer's bill.
[0071] In the second method of redeeming a coupon shown in FIG. 1,
consumer PC 2 transmits the selected coupon file 5 to a data base 7
designated by the issuer, where it is stored with the same
information as the printed coupon. The check-out system at the
retail outlet 8 would then automatically activate the discount if
the consumer presented a store credit card or a third-party credit
card and purchased the designated product. Preferably, the
electronic transfer of the coupon from the consumer PC to data base
7 can only be done on-line. (This permits the service data base 2
to accurately track the coupon's printing or presentation activity,
as discussed below.)
[0072] While each EC may include both transaction data and
identification data, the ECs of the present invention need only be
provided with a single unique number (e.g., a barcode) while still
providing all of the advantages described here.
[0073] Information can also be passed back up through the system,
first to the service data base 2 and then on to the coupon issuer
1. Thus, information about the coupon files, the specific
transaction, consumer profiles or other demographic information,
for example ("consumer data") can be downloaded by the consumer PC
3 and the coupon files can be sent to the consumer's printer 4 or
to an issuer data base 7. Redeemed printed coupons 6 may also have
their barcodes scanned by the service to identify, for research
purposes, the consumers who used the coupons. For increased
security, at check-out the barcode could be compared to ensure that
the consumer identity corresponds with the barcode. Such
information could also be transmitted from a coupon file 5 that is
redeemed automatically.
[0074] FIG. 2 depicts an exemplary software routine which enables
the coupon issuer to download new coupon instructions, change old
instructions, or upload information on coupon use. The routine
begins 9 with dialing up the coupon service 10. To access the
system, the issuer first enters a login password 11 (at which time
the use of a pre-assigned registration number can be required). A
main menu 12 is then displayed. Among the choices is creating new
coupon instructions, which starts with a download of coupon
templates 13 along with commands to set the number of coupons to be
issued (both in total and to each individual consumer) and commands
to set expiration dates 14. Commands can also be issued to limit
coupon distribution by area or by a consumer's household profile
15. These coupon instructions are added to previously issued
coupons. The issuer can review these electronic coupons 16 and then
modify instructions as to (e.g.) numbers issued 17 or expiration
dates 18. Previously issued coupons may also be deleted from the
system should the issuer decide to do so. (They may be
automatically deleted from the system following expiration.) These
changes are used to update the coupon instructions 19 resident in
the service data base.
[0075] Issuers can also access the system for usage history 20 to
determine the remaining number of previously issued coupons.
Further, the issuer can upload reports 21 based on the number of
coupons selected 22, printed 23, and redeemed 24. Another function
of the software is to analyze use based on the shopping habits and
demographic characteristics of the user. This consumer data can be
contained in the household profile, submitted by the consumer to
register for the system and periodically updated with additional
questions and usage history. An issuer can display information
about those who have selected the issuers' coupons, breaking down
use by such factors as region and demographics 25. In addition, the
issuer can upload user reports 26 based on selection 27, print
commands 28, and redemption 29.
[0076] The service data base, as shown in FIG. 3, is the bridge
between the coupon issuer 1 and the consumer 3, and permits the
flow of both incoming and outgoing information. First, over an
online network 33, the service receives the coupon instructions 19
sent by the coupon issuer 1. The service software takes the
instructions and assigns the requisite serial numbers 34 and issue
restrictions. These new or changed coupons are then sent to update
35 the active service coupons 36 already in disk storage for that
issuer. These active service coupons are part of the outgoing
information sent to the consumer over the online network 37.
Consumer usage information goes back the other way through the
network 38. The service system takes usage information 39 on
selection and updates the number of active services coupons
remaining. Also incoming from the consumer is household profile
information 41. The service takes this information and updates user
reports 42 which are sent back through the network 44 to the
issuer, completing the information circuit.
[0077] FIG. 4 displays the software routine for the consumer. It
starts 45 with a display of the main menu 46. The consumer may
display the coupons that have already been downloaded and are
resident on the consumer's PC 55. There are two methods by which
the consumer could activate the coupons 48. The first would be to
send the coupon file 49 to the consumer's printer. Along the way,
it is barcoded with the consumer's PIN 50, which is accessed from
the household profile data base 64. The consumer's printer 4 then
prints out the coupon 6. Upon activation 48, a coupon could also be
transmitted as a computer file 51, back through the network 52, to
a data base chosen by the issuer. When coupons are activated 48,
the consumer's resident software removes the coupon file that has
been printed 54, updating the data base of downloaded electronic
coupons 55 and the resident coupon display 47. The system also
automatically removes expired coupon files that have yet to be
activated 56. Another function of the resident software is
displaying 62 and updating 63 the household profile 64 with
information entered by the consumer in response to questions
submitted by the service.
[0078] To access a new selection of coupons, the consumer can dial
up the service data base 58, enter the PIN number 59, and view a
display of all active service coupons 60. These coupons can then be
selected and downloaded 61 to the consumer's PC. While online, the
consumer's software automatically sends back to the service data
base information on the consumer's selection and printing history
57, as well as information on those downloaded coupon files that
have expired 56. It also sends back updated information on the
consumer's household profile 65.
[0079] A second embodiment of the present invention is directed to
a data processing system and method for use in automating
reservations over online systems for restaurants, hotels, or other
service establishments. FIG. 5 is an overview showing how the
information and activities flow from the initial assignment of the
reservation by the restaurant, to its selection by the consumer and
the ultimate printing of a confirmation slip by the consumer's
printer.
[0080] The automated reservation process starts with the host
computer of the restaurant 66 which sets the number, time, and type
of reservations available, and downloads those instructions to the
reservation service 67, which receives the instructions and assigns
the requisite confirmation numbers and issue restrictions. The
reservation service 67 can then display the service's reservations
to the consumer, and make them available for access through the
consumer's personal computer (PC) 68 or other input device. Once
the consumer chooses the restaurant, time and type of reservation
(i.e. for two, for four, etc.), the data processing system
immediately notifies the restaurant with a description of the
reservation, the name and telephone number of the consumer and the
confirmation number. This information can be sent through the
online computer network and also preferably by a designated fax
machine (which may be more convenient for the restaurant's
front-office staff than a computer). The consumer can then use a
printer 69 attached to the consumer PC 68, or another input device,
to print a confirmation slip 70. The confirmation slip can have a
description of the reservation, the name and phone number of the
consumer and the confirmation number. This slip would be presented
to reception personnel upon the consumer's arrival at the
restaurant and corroborated with the information that had
previously been sent to the restaurant through the system and fax
machine.
[0081] Feeding back up through the system, first to the service
data base 67, and then on to the restaurant 66, is information
about the reservations made by the consumer PC 68 and the profile
the consumer has submitted as part of the registration process for
the service ("consumer data"). This profile is continually updated
by the consumer, in response to additional questions, and is also
continually updated by the system, in tracking the reservations the
consumer has made.
[0082] FIG. 6 depicts a software routine for the restaurant to set
aside reservations for the system, change old reservations, and
upload information on reservation use. The routine begins 71 with
dialing up the reservation service 72. To access the system, the
restaurant first enters a login password 73. A main menu 74 is then
displayed. Among the choices is setting new reservations 75. The
type of reservation and number of reservations is determined by
setting available tables 76 (e.g., the number of tables available
for seating two 78, four 77, and six 79). Instructions also include
setting the day and time for the reservations 80. These reservation
instructions can be added to previously issued, initial reservation
instructions in disk storage 81.
[0083] Still referring to FIG. 6, the software can also be used to
change previously issued reservations. The restaurant can review
these electronic reservation "coupons" 82 and then modify
instructions on (e.g.) the numbers of tables available 83. In this
operation previously issued reservations could be deleted from the
system at the restaurant's option. The updated reservation
instructions 81 are then sent to the service data base. The system
can also be accessed by restaurants for usage history 85 to view
the names and phone numbers of those who have made reservations 86,
and to determine the number of remaining reservations for a given
hour 87. The restaurant can also upload information 88 on those who
have used the service to book reservations at a particular
location. A user profile could be displayed 89 and a list of users
could be displayed 93, or the restaurant could print user reports
90, and create a hard copy of the user profile 91 or user list
92.
[0084] The reservation service, as shown in FIG. 7, is again the
bridge between the restaurant 66 and the consumer 68, and handles
both incoming and outgoing information. First, over an online
network 94, the service receives the reservation instructions 95
sent by the restaurant 66. The service software takes the
instructions and assigns the requisite confirmation numbers to each
reservation 96. These new or changed reservations are then sent to
update 97 the active service reservations 98 already in disk
storage for the restaurant. These active service reservations are
part of the outgoing information sent to the consumer 68 over the
online network 99.
[0085] Still referring to FIG. 7, consumer usage information also
moves from the consumer's PC back to the restaurant through the
network 100. The service system takes the reservation made by the
consumer 102 and updates the number of active service reservations
remaining 103. This information is also used to update the
restaurant 104 through a transmission to the restaurant fax machine
105 and through the computer network 106. Also incoming from the
consumer is user profile information 101 which is sent back to the
restaurant through the computer network 106.
[0086] FIG. 8 displays the software routine for the consumer. It
starts 107 with a display of the main menu 108. The consumer can
dial up the service data base 109, enter the PIN number 110, and
view a display of all active service reservations 111. A
reservation can then be selected and downloaded 112 to the
consumer's PC, where it is sent to the printer 113. Along the way,
the name and phone number of the consumer is taken from the user
profile information storage 117 and added 114 to print instructions
for the confirmation slip 116. A printer attached to the consumer
PC can be used to print 115 the confirmation slip 116.
[0087] While online, the consumer's software sends back to the
service information on the consumer's reservation 119 to update the
remaining service reservations. The reservation also updates the
consumer's user profile 117. The updated user profile information
is also automatically sent back to the service while the consumer
is online 120. The consumer can display the user profile 121 and
update the profile 122 with answers to questions prompted to the
consumer both during and after the registration process.
[0088] It can be appreciated that the present invention can be
designed for use with various online software, including American
Online.RTM., Prodigy.RTM. and Microsoft.RTM..
[0089] It will also be appreciated by those skilled in the art that
various changes and modifications can be made to the illustrated
embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present
invention. For example, while the preferred embodiments describe
particular types of ECs (coupons and reservation slips), various
other types of ECs can be used by systems designed according to the
present invention, including certificates used as proof of a gift,
award or payment, and virtually any other types of certificates or
vouchers. As another example, while the service data base 2 will
typically assign identification data to the EC, this data could be
transmitted and assigned together with the transaction data by the
coupon issuer 1, or even by a third remote site. Also, rather than
utilizing separate issuer and service computers, they could be
consolidated into a single computer for particular applications.
Further, use could be made of multiple issuer computers, multiple
service computers, or combinations of the same, given a particular
application. Still further, while the preferred embodiments have
described users with "remote computer terminals" that consist of
personal computers, users might access the marketing network of the
present invention through various other accessing media, such as
phone lines, televisions, or individual access stations dedicated
for the use and dispensing of various certificates (much like cash
machines are used today). These other accessing media would include
appropriate software and hardware permitting interactive
capabilities with remote computers, similar to that described in
the preferred embodiments utilizing the personal computers. These
and other modifications and changes within the spirit and scope of
the present invention are intended to be covered by the appended
claims.
[0090] A computer program listing for implementation of the present
invention is set forth is the accompanying Appendix A. The seven
modules or volumes contained in this source code listing represent
the functionality of a commercial implementation of the present
invention, except for certain encryption routines for the
prevention of tampering with the computer program. The features of
such encryption routines are separate from the focus of the present
invention and are known by those of ordinary skill in the art.
* * * * *