U.S. patent application number 11/027574 was filed with the patent office on 2005-07-28 for system and method for two-way communication between media consumers and media providers.
Invention is credited to Manu, Dennis, Salzinger, Steve, Sherwin, Jeffrey, Yusuf, Ubah, Zack, Russel.
Application Number | 20050165686 11/027574 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34798542 |
Filed Date | 2005-07-28 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050165686 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Zack, Russel ; et
al. |
July 28, 2005 |
System and method for two-way communication between media consumers
and media providers
Abstract
A method is provided for interaction between content providers
and consumers on a communication system. The method includes
acquiring data from the consumers regarding electronic commerce
transactions conducted through the communication system. Content
provider media assets are managed using the communication system
for distribution of the assets to the consumers. The management of
the content provider media assets is adjusted based on the acquired
data from consumers regarding electronic commerce transactions, so
as to generate a schedule for delivery of content provider media
assets to the consumers that is based on the consumer's electronic
commerce history.
Inventors: |
Zack, Russel; (New York,
NY) ; Salzinger, Steve; (Scarsdale, NY) ;
Manu, Dennis; (Tewksbury Township, NJ) ; Yusuf,
Ubah; (Riverdale, NY) ; Sherwin, Jeffrey;
(Brooklyn, NY) |
Correspondence
Address: |
SOFER & HAROUN, LLP
Suite 910
317 Madison Avenue
New York
NY
10017
US
|
Family ID: |
34798542 |
Appl. No.: |
11/027574 |
Filed: |
December 30, 2004 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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11027574 |
Dec 30, 2004 |
|
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|
10359770 |
Feb 7, 2003 |
|
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60374830 |
Apr 24, 2002 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
705/51 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06Q 20/10 20130101;
G06Q 30/02 20130101; G06Q 30/0617 20130101; G06Q 30/0633
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
705/051 |
International
Class: |
G06F 017/60 |
Claims
1. A method of interaction between content providers and consumers
on a communication system, said method comprising the steps of:
acquiring and managing digital media assets for distribution to
consumers through said communication system, wherein a workflow for
distributing said digital media assets is managed through said
communication system; acquiring profile and preferences data
facilitating the consumption of said digital media assets; wherein
said digital media assets are transacted upon through said
communication system for distribution of said assets to said; and
adjusting said management of digital media content and said digital
media assets by said content providers, for delivery through said
communication system based on content provider rules, consumer
preferences, media type and said consumer's device.
2. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said step of acquiring
and managing digital media assets includes said content provider's
agreement to redistribute or sell digital media assets themselves
wherein said content providers acquire said digital media assets
from a third party for the purpose of re-licensing and
redistributing through a direct communication channel.
3. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said step of acquiring
and managing digital media assets further comprises the step of
formatting, encoding, compressing and securing said digital media
assets, creating or modifying metadata, and the storage of said
digital media assets.
4. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said step of acquiring
and managing digital media assets includes scheduling and licensing
of said digital media assets using said communication system so as
to deliver said digital media assets to said consumers based on
consumer preferences and rights/usage permissions.
5. The method as claimed in claim 4, wherein said rights and usage
permissions for purchase, download, and using said digital media
assets are enforced by either one of a single or a multiple network
device that executes content provider or operator's specific
business requirements and data, wherein said digital media assets
are subject to license restrictions that are communicated to any
one of a license, certificate, or media server.
6. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said digital media
assets are available through catalogue options, including bundling
or re-cataloguing of said content provider's digital media assets
based on packaging rules, said packaging rules being based on said
content provider's business model, marketing campaigns and
promotions.
7. The method as claimed in claim 6, further comprising the step of
cataloguing of said digital media assets such that varying
catalogue options are provided to said consumers by said content
providers based on consumer preferences and a history of their
selections.
8. The method as claimed in claim 7, further comprising the step of
determining how said catalogue options are displayed and arranged
thereby creating a targeted consumer experience that affects how
said digital media assets are consumed and transacted upon by said
consumer.
9. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said step of acquiring
and managing digital media assets includes the organization and
location of said digital media assets in a distribution process so
as to facilitate said content provider's ability to review search
and categorize offerings of said digital media assets.
10. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said step of
acquiring and managing digital media assets includes the
organization and location of said digital media assets in a
distribution process so as to facilitate said content provider's
ability to communicate and interact with external systems and
processes.
11. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said profile and
preferences data is acquired about said consumer, said access by
said consumer includes the ability to gain access to any one of
video, audio, forms, applications, data, games and services over a
service provider's network including any one of cable, wireless,
satellite, telecommunication and utility companies' network.
12. The method as claimed in claim 11, whereby said step of
consumer accessing said data through said communication system,
further includes the step of identification, authentication, and
validation of said consumer.
13. The method as claimed in claim 11, whereby said step of
consumer accessing said data through said communication system,
further includes the step of authorization of said consumer based
on account and/or billing history.
14. The method as claimed in claim 11, wherein said step of
consumer accessing digital media assets further comprises the step
of allowing said consumer to view and then select appropriate
digital content based on desired content and catalogue options.
15. The method as claimed in claim 1, wherein said profile and
preferences data is acquired on said consumer further comprises of
the pre-filling of said profile and transaction data in order to
expedite said consumer's process of conducting electronic
transactions.
16. The method as claimed in claim 15, wherein said expedited
electronic commerce transactions further comprise the step of
including all actions required for fulfilling and completing a
transaction to create an easier media consumption experience for
said consumers.
17. The method as claimed in claim 16, further comprising the step
of generating a report relating to said details concerning said
consumer's transaction and media consumption experience.
18. The method as claimed in claim 17, wherein said report relating
to said details concerning said consumer's transactions and media
consumption experience is directed to said content providers
through said communication system.
19. The method as claimed in claim 17, further comprising the step
of transmitting said report relating to said details concerning
said consumer's transactions and media consumption experience to
said consumer for review, wherein said consumers may review said
report for either a single media provider or multiple media
providers.
20. A system for supporting interaction between content providers
and consumers said system comprising: a means for acquiring and
managing digital media assets for distribution to consumers through
said communication system, wherein a workflow for distributing said
digital media assets is managed through said communication system;
a means for acquiring profile and preferences data facilitating the
consumption of said digital media assets; wherein said digital
media assets are transacted upon through said communication system;
and a means for adjusting said management of said digital media
assets and said digital media assets by said content providers, for
delivery through said communication system based on content
provider rules, consumer preferences, media type and said consumer
device.
Description
REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is related to co-pending application Ser.
No. 10/359,770, filed on Feb. 7, 2003 and U.S. patent application
Ser. No. ______ filed on Sep. 22, 2004.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to a method for 2-way
communication between media consumers and media providers. More
specifically, the present invention relates to a method for
scheduling, licensing and delivery of digital content and for
establishing a method for customers to use and transact on digital
goods.
BACKGROUND OF INVENTION
[0003] The home entertainment market has been increasingly moving
to an on-demand business model that has been fueled by a reduction
in digital media distribution costs, an increase in the adoption of
broadband access as well as in consumer enthusiasm for digital
media in general. A study by Forrester Research on August 2004,
found that broadband customers spend more time online participating
in high-bandwidth activities such as downloading and purchasing
software and music then their dial-up counterparts.
[0004] However, problems exist on both sides of the digital content
transaction process. From the content consumption perspective, the
process of purchasing and interacting with devices is cumbersome.
Generally, to purchase digital goods, a customer logs onto the
Internet and navigates to the appropriate merchant. He/she make
selections that meet their desires or needs and then enter the
required customer information, typically billing and shipping
information. These steps often create a transaction hurdle as they
require that the customer take time and effort to manually enter
and reenter this information for each purchase. Since data entry,
particularly on devices, is more difficult, the barrier to complete
a transaction is raised.
[0005] Ultimately, the media experience has a significant impact on
whether or not a customer completes a transaction and/or returns to
a particular merchant. Thus, simplifying the purchase process is
not necessarily enough to create a gratifying media experience.
Customers are exposed to a plethora of information that is
increasingly difficult to navigate through. Assistance in accessing
the media they most desire is the additional ingredient that often
helps to enhance the media experience.
[0006] The capture of end-user preferences is as valuable to the
content provider as the dissemination of preferences data is to the
end consumer. Such information provides content owners with the
ability to compare customer purchases to campaign costs in order to
assess profit levels. It also enables them to make adjustments to
prices, promotions and products based on real demands not just
projections.
[0007] Nonetheless, content providers experience difficulties in
efficiently meeting the demands of their customers while sustaining
productivity. To gain value from customer data, the information
must be accurate and up-to-date. Also, business rules must be
modified quickly enough to keep up with changing customer
preferences. This can be a difficult feat considering the shear
volume of customer information that also flows through these
systems (such as a cable company's systems). Moreover, when data is
recorded in multiple systems, locations and formats, finding
relevant assets and responding appropriately becomes an even
greater challenge.
[0008] A typical media on demand distribution process in the prior
art, e.g. VOD distribution, involves content being duplicated on a
tape and then being physically carried by a courier. The associated
metadata is generally transported in the form of hardcopy
documents; thus requiring that someone manually enter the data into
a content management system. Manual tasks are conducted by numerous
persons throughout the process. The use of multiple, distinct and
incompatible systems adds to the amount of manual intensive steps.
The inevitable occurrence of change further exacerbates
productivity issues. For example, when new products or campaigns
are added, workflow changes occur that result in bottlenecks in the
distribution process.
[0009] Nonetheless, content providers and multiple system operators
(MSOs) who want to take advantage of the new revenue streams
afforded by digital media are better equipped to do so now with the
advent of digital rights management (DRM) technologies that give
them more control over how their content is distributed. However,
to increase market share and compete effectively, these companies
must be able to manage and deliver digital content in a flexible
and cost-efficient manner.
[0010] The digital asset distribution lifecycle involves many
steps, actors and states. In today's digital content distribution
market, there are no media agnostic applications that can
effectively meet the demands of all involved participants in the
distribution chain. The growth in the on-demand content space has
generated the need for new approaches to content distribution that
can meet the increasingly challenging requirements of both media
providers and media consumers.
OBJECTS AND SUMMARY OF INVENTION
[0011] The present invention looks to overcome the drawbacks
associated with the prior art and provides a system and method for
an integrated business process solution (IBPS) that incorporates
the full-lifecycle of content production and distribution with a
simplified process for delivering preferences-based content. The
present invention further provides an automated method for
streamlining the content execution and delivery process while
intelligently meeting the needs of end-consumers.
[0012] It is a first object of the present invention to allow
multiple actors, on both sides of the transaction (content
providers and content consumers), to participate in the IBPS
process. Preferably there are a number of steps that each actor may
take during the transactions according to the present invention.
Steps taken by the content providers may include, but are not
limited to, creation/acquisition, asset formatting, rights/usage
permissions, distribution agreements, catalogue, traffic placement,
bundling/re-cataloging, display presentation and reports. Steps
taken by the content consumer may include, but are not limited to,
access attempts, user identification/authentication, viewing of
media options, selecting content, media user
experience/transactions, media experiences, and reports.
[0013] It is another object of the present invention to offer a
process that provides a guideline for the digital distribution of
content. In doing so, it establishes a framework that supports the
exchange of any type of digital content, such as video, audio,
forms, applications, data and games over devices, such as PCs, TVs
or game consoles. The framework of the present invention is also
configured to deliver digital media based on consumer preferences,
simplify the purchase process by reducing the number of steps
required for transactions and to automate the workflow for editing,
validating, scheduling and publishing data.
[0014] It is yet another object of the present invention to
simplify the asset sharing process to facilitate collaboration on
marketing campaigns, enable one-step publishing of assets to
multiple distribution channels and to reduce content duplication
and redundancies. Additionally, the housing of information in one
place enables those in the workflow process to reduce the amount of
time required to locate relevant assets, thereby increasing
productivity.
[0015] The framework uses standards-based technologies that operate
over open networks. It considers multi-level security including DRM
and entitlement checks. It is another object of the present
invention to include processes for customizing the rules related to
licensing, packaging, presenting and distributing content;
maintaining up-to-date metadata that can be searched, tracked,
archived and reported on; adding data to transaction information
based on accrued interactions and analysis tools.
[0016] To this end, the present invention provides
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0017] The subject matter regarded as the invention is particularly
pointed out and distinctly claimed in the concluding portion of the
specification. The invention, however, both as to organization and
method of operation, together with features, objects, and
advantages thereof may best be understood by reference to the
following detailed description when read with the accompanying
drawings:
[0018] FIG. 1 illustrates a high-level block diagram of a system
for back-end media distribution, in accordance with one embodiment
of the present invention;
[0019] FIG. 2 illustrates a high-level block diagram of a system
for front-end media distribution, in accordance with one embodiment
of the present invention;
[0020] FIG. 3 is a flow chart for a content provider process, in
accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;
[0021] FIG. 4 is a flow chart for a content consumer process, in
accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;
[0022] FIG. 5 is a high-level diagram of a 2-way communication
stream for the process of FIG. 5, in accordance with one embodiment
of the present invention;
[0023] FIG. 6 is a flow chart for an integrated content consumer
and provider process from FIGS. 4 and 5, in accordance with one
embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION
[0024] Brief Description of Terms--
[0025] The following terms are provided to establish an
understanding of the invention:
[0026] 1. Content Provider: Can include owners, producers,
distributors or resellers of digital content, such as, for example,
cable or wireless service providers.
[0027] 2. Customer: Consumer of digital goods and services.
[0028] 3. End-user: Person using an application, system or
method.
[0029] 4. Tags: Embedded information keys, such as HTML or XML
embedded keys, for customer specific values which can be agreed
upon at time of Provider/Vendor agreement.
[0030] 5. Dialogs: Interactive user interface objects displayed by
the browser (such as text fields, text areas, check boxes, radio
buttons, and list boxes).
[0031] 6. CableLabs.TM.: Standard or format founded in 1988 by
members of the cable television industry used in the distribution
of content assets.
[0032] 7. XML: Extensible Markup Language. A flexible way to create
common information formats and share both the format and the data
on the World Wide Web, intranets, digital cable infrastructure and
elsewhere.
[0033] 8. EPG: Electronic Program Guide. An onscreen guide that
helps make it easier for viewers to choose, view and/or pay for the
large number of channels, VOD (Video On Demand) programs, Pay Per
View events, and shows available, particularly in a digital
environment.
[0034] 9. MSO: Multiple System Operator. For example, a cable
television corporation with more than one network is an MSO.
[0035] 10. VOD: Video On Demand--Also referred to as On-demand
Programming, Live-streaming, Internet-on-Demand Video or IP-based
Video, in addition to a number of other terms. The service enables
e.g. television viewers to select a program and have it sent to
them via a network such as a cable or satellite TV network.
[0036] 11. Rule Engine: Integrated software that provides an
intelligent engine that can be used to design, develop, and manage
business rules. It allows programmers and users to easily create
and manage business rules in a robust, scalable and high
performance environment.
[0037] 12. DRM: Digital Rights Management. Security-based
technologies that enable a content owner to have control over how
their content is distributed.
[0038] 13. CE: In the context of this document, CE refers
throughout to Computer Electronic devices, generally small
hand-held devices such as PDAs (Personal Digital Assistants).
[0039] 14. PIN: Personal Identification Number, used to
authenticate an end-user
[0040] 15. Package: Image, Metadata, and Video file all wrapped up
into a final distribution format.
[0041] 16. UI: User interface is everything designed into an
information device with which a human being may interact.
[0042] 17. Terrestrial Network: high speed network used for
broadcasting digital assets. Within the context of this document,
it is a digital television broadcast entirely over earthbound
circuits. A satellite is not used for any part of the link between
the broadcaster and the end user.
[0043] 18. Local cache: a place to store something temporarily. For
example, when returning to a page recently visited, the browser can
get the web site address from the cache rather than the original
server, saving you time and the network the burden of some
additional traffic.
[0044] 19. WMA: Wireless Messaging API--used for Chatting, email
notification, banking transactions and more.
[0045] 20. Helix: Open multi-format platform for digital media
creation, delivery and playback.
[0046] The present invention provides a system and method for
establishing and maintaining bi-directional communications between
content consumers and content providers involved in electronic
transactions. In one embodiment of the present invention, as
illustrated in FIG. 1, system 2 depicts the framework and content
distribution process that content providers 50 and their affiliates
52 undertake.
[0047] As shown in FIG. 1, the present invention provides a
communication system 2 for facilitating the management and
scheduling of content assets for distribution. In one embodiment,
system 2 provides access to web-based capabilities comprising of
four components: scheduling/licensing management module 24, asset
management module 23, reporting and publishing module 25 and
operations administration module 22.
[0048] Furthermore, system 2 can include an application server 21
for interaction with the above modules by a consumer user interface
94 over a network 30 such as the Internet, for example. Asset and
metadata management module 23 enables the management of content
assets and asset metadata. Scheduling/licensing module 24 allows
for the scheduling of these assets and tracks associated licensing
information. It provides a centralized view of asset information
for all time periods, and enables end-users (content providers 50)
to assess which assets should go live, which should be launched and
which were previously scheduled. Varying hour clusters indicate
different time periods in which an asset can be included in the
programming of a service. This enhances flexibility as one channel
can offer multiple assets simultaneously with different DRM
options, rather than consecutively, as in traditional broadcast
schedules.
[0049] In one embodiment of the present invention, reporting and
publishing module 25 allows for viewing and manipulating reports
and publishing asset information and asset packages to
distributors, e.g. MSOs. Distributors can then provide the contents
for viewing by consumers 60 as will be described more completely
hereinafter. Operations administration module 22 includes
functionality for administering system 2 and provides access
control capabilities, royalty/licensing administration and billing
functions. In one aspect, system 2 can include an encoding and
compressing module with DRM components 27 for encoding, compressing
content received in multiple formats and associating the
appropriate usage rights for content stored in database 28a.
[0050] In one embodiment of the present invention, asset encoding,
compressing and DRM module 27 enables content received in multiple
formats to be compressed, stored and organized into discreet
content units. The present invention takes into consideration both
the manual and automated support of the state of asset collections.
In one embodiment, the present invention provides for at least five
states for an encoded asset, including but not limited to "ready to
encode", "sent to encode", "encoded", "delivered-inactive", and
"live".
[0051] "Ready to encode" means that the encoded asset tape or file
has been received; the DRM component specified and is ready to be
encoded. "Sent to encode" means that the encoded asset tape or file
has been sent to the encoding facility. "Encoded" means that the
encoded asset is digitized and that the file has been encoded in
the appropriate format. "Delivered-inactive" means that the encoded
asset file has been delivered in an inactive state to system 2 of
the present invention, and "live" means that the encoded asset file
is now live on a server in system 2. Because of a rule engine
component 26, these states can shift in meaning and new states can
be added with additional operations, as described below.
[0052] In one embodiment of the present invention, as further shown
in FIG. 1, rule engine component 26 provides the interface between
applications modules 22-25 and data storage 28a-28d. Storage
28a-28d may be organized logically or physically in separate areas.
Storage 28a-28d may be configured such that they are assigned
specific roles such as content asset database 28a, schedule/license
database 28b, user/MSO database 28c and metadata database 28d.
[0053] It is understood that the above described components of
system 2 are considered exemplary and are in no way intended to
limit the scope of the present invention. Any similar system 2,
using similarly functioning modules arranged to achieve similar
communications goals is within the contemplation of the present
invention. Furthermore, it is understood that the modules listed
above, such as modules 22-25 may either be configured as physical
hardware modules, or, alternatively, they may be configured as
software modules for carrying out the same functions. Either such
arrangement is within the contemplation of the present
invention.
[0054] In one embodiment of the present invention, the above
described framework for system 2 alleviates much of the need for
the content provider 50 to manage state and dispatch code on a
user/session level. In combination with the very flexible design of
the present invention, this framework for system 2 makes
adjustments to workflow simple and straightforward. For example,
system 2 operators or administrators can determine what the
required workflow should be and design the appropriate changes to
the interface. The ability to change rules in the workflow
introduces flexibility into a process that is typically derailed
each time a change occurs in the way business is conducted.
Moreover, multiple roles in the workflow of the asset distribution
process can be supported. Preferably, only those logged on as
administrators can authorize or restrict access to certain
functions by assigning roles to end-users; however the invention is
not limited in this respect.
[0055] Since the asset workflow varies based on company size,
industry and success level, it is necessary to enable a variety of
players to participate in the content distribution network. For
example, there may be as many as eight or more roles in the typical
VOD distribution environment. These roles can include but are not
limited to: a content provider 50 (to create new assets), a
scheduler (to manage and finalize assets schedules) a marketer or
marketers (to accept and/or modify titles and descriptions),
administrator (to generate transmission lists and XML for MSOs,
administer rights and privileges as well as maintain category
information), legal person (to create and modify contracts for
assets in the schedule), librarian (to manage the storage of
content assets), basic end-user (who is privy to read only access
of certain asset data and schedule data), and finance officer (to
view, edit and calculate revenues and revenue splits bound by the
asset licensing agreements).
[0056] Publishing module 25 sends information to a variety of
external exports, such as to content providers 50, as well as to
affiliate web sites 52. Content can be automatically published
once, to multiple locations without manual editing. Metadata can be
exported in multiple formats, including Cable Labs.TM., XML, WMA
(Wireless Messaging API) and Helix. Also, transmission lists can be
sent to distribution partners and data feeds can be exported to
legacy systems (applications that have been inherited from earlier
technologies) for asset information synchronization purposes.
[0057] Furthermore, publishing module 25 can send transmission
commands 70, metadata information and/or encoded assets for
delivery to, for example, a digital set top box (DSTB) 96 via a
localized cache 50a or to an affiliate site 52. The transmission
method can be via satellite 90, terrestrial network 91, or
over-the-air 92 delivery channels to CE devices such as DSTBs.
Additionally, the publishing module 25 may send transmissions 72
such as XML and SQL information, schedules and complementary
assets, that may be viewed using a standard web browser on a
personal computer (PC) 94 or other computing device via network 30
(e.g. internet). The present invention may also import information
from legacy database systems (as described above) for metadata
entry or broadcast scheduling and planning systems.
[0058] In one embodiment of the present invention,
scheduling/licensing module 24, illustrated in FIG. 1, includes
functionality for managing, validating and packaging content that
has been licensed from third parties. Licensing information that is
collected may include, but is not limited to: royalty minimums,
total licenses, total expired licenses, license start and end
dates, windows media and Helix DRM specifications. A validation
process for example, would prevent scheduling/licensing module 24
from scheduling an asset to be "live" on the content provider 50
VOD system of Feb. 28, 2004 if the content license has expired with
the licensee on Feb. 1, 2004. Rules can be set to enable
notifications to be sent when a license is near its expiration
date. Scheduling and licensing information are interrelated in such
a way that each time the schedule is edited, revenue figures are
recalculated, thereby e.g. enabling total revenue figures to be
calculated based on scheduled assets and asset usage data in
licensing agreements.
[0059] In one embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2
demonstrates a second integrated feature element 10 for
transactions with affiliate sites 52 by content providers 50 via a
proxy server 40 to DSTB 96 or a wireless device 98. Content is
stored on a central database 44, that houses profile management
module 16, commerce transaction module 18, and a digital wallet
module 20 that together, facilitate the process of transacting and
consuming digital products on CE devices.
[0060] Customer data is received directly from the registration
process or through interactions on system 10. In the case of the
latter, a proxy server 40 communicates with the transaction module
18 and profile module 16. Proxy server 40 receives requests from
customers, parses and modifies the received information and
incorporates it with the consumer profile data that corresponds
with tag markers 42. Consumer profiles are automatically updated
based on customer interactions, thereby enabling content provider
50 to send to a local cache 50a, content that is in sync with the
customer's changing interests. Tags 42 enable content providers 50
to modify the page layout, workflow and content without breaking
integration points in system 10.
[0061] The types of profile information that are collected include
but are not limited to customer name, credit card, billing and
shipping addresses. When the customer 60 returns for another
transaction, customer data is automatically filled in if there is
a) only 1 choice or data set is available 2) the customer has
already made this selection in the past. If the appropriate data
cannot be easily determined, a data entry page that aims to collect
the missing information is provided to customers 60.
[0062] In such cases, dialogues may be displayed to customers 60
that are designed to ease the process of entering data. Dialogs
employing radio buttons, check boxes and menu bars are utilized in
order to simplify the workflow for end-consumers 60 as this can be
a barrier to a transaction when entering personal data in an input
restrictive CE device.
[0063] The types of dialogs that are presented to customer 60 may
be modified according to their preferences or to merchant
transaction policies. Further, customers 60 using limited input
devices have the option to manage their profile information on the
Internet. The authentication process is tied to the account
information, device, or federated identity system, thus allowing
for simplified profile management and fewer forgotten
passwords.
[0064] It is understood that the above described components of
system 10 are considered exemplary and are in no way intended to
limit the scope of the present invention. Any similar communication
system 10, using similarly functioning modules arranged to achieve
similar communications goals is within the contemplation of the
present invention. Furthermore, it is understood that the modules
listed above, such as modules 22-25 may either be configured as
physical hardware modules, or, alternatively, they may be
configured as software modules for carrying out the same functions.
Either such arrangement is within the contemplation of the present
invention. Additionally, it is understood that communication system
2 from FIG. 1, is shown as an independent system. However, similar
modules with similar functions may be shared between the systems
where applicable.
[0065] In one embodiment of the present invention, as shown in flow
chart FIG. 3, a content provider process is described. The content
provider's 50 process relates to the backend delivery of digital
audio/video products to content consumers 60.
[0066] It is noted that the following described process is
presented in a particular order however; this is in no way intended
to limit the scope of the present invention. Preferably, at step
200, the process begins with creating or acquiring a digital asset
that content provider 50 has the right to redistribute and sell.
The content provider 50 may create and distribute digital media
themselves or, alternatively they may purchase it from another
content producer. In a third manner content provider 50 may simply
receive the rights from a second content provider 50 who owns the
license on a particular asset. In the cases where content provider
50, a contract or distribution agreement is established between the
content creator and content licensor at step 206.
[0067] Once the legalities are in place, whoever has the necessary
permissions to use the content can modify it as they desire. In
step 202, content providers 50 may modify the asset in multiple
ways including formatting (or reformatting) 202. Formatting step
202 consists of encoding the content, creating associated metadata,
storing the content and making it available for packaging,
distribution or resale. By enabling content providers 50 to
reformat based on content, DRM and device type, a flexible
environment for conducting business with partners who have invested
in incompatible or competing technologies is created. This enables
content providers 50 and sellers to collaborate regardless of
disparities that may exist in business models, physical location or
technical equipment. As a result, the level of effort required to
add new assets and new partners is decreased.
[0068] In one embodiment of the present invention, rules may be
established that govern how one can use or sell content and how
long content can be offered for purchase. At step 204 rights/usage
permissions rules are generated considering portability
permissions, previewing and playing capabilities as well as access
rights, and DRM (including copyright rules that govern how one
might share a digital product). Additionally, a variety of
rules-based price structures may be implemented, for example, `for
the month of December buy two products and get a third free`.
[0069] Next, at step 208, the present invention utilizes a
cataloguing step consisting of the generation of an inventory of
all content provider assets and associated information in a central
location. The central location may be handled by system 2 or it may
be handled locally on content provider 50. Cataloging step 208
makes it possible to bundle or re-catalogue at a step 212, quickly
as it enables content to be stored in a digital, searchable library
that alleviates the time and effort required to search in different
locations. Also, content providers 50 can set guidelines for how
media offerings can be packaged, e.g. as a subscription or on a
standalone basis. Content may be packaged and repackaged based on
marketing campaigns and special promotions. It can also be arranged
as a compilation for example, in the case of music or perhaps as a
digital audio and video bundle.
[0070] At traffic placement step 210, the placement of an asset can
be determined and the location in which it can be purchased
specified. This step serves as a dashboard that organizes and
presents the content in a manner that is easy to read. Information
may be placed in a certain promotional area or in particular
categories for searching purposes. Content providers 50 may track
the location and view the status of an asset in the distribution
process via the traffic placement step 210 as information from
multiple components are integrated into a unified display. Also, in
order to influence how content is consumed, providers set rules
that impact display presentation during a presentation step 214.
For example, rules may be set to impact the look and feel options
that can enhance the end-customer's 60 overall experience.
[0071] Next at step 216, the reporting of asset data is conducted.
Metadata sent either inside or outside of the network is captured
and may be reported on. Content providers 50 may create reports
that, for example, analyze data on the popularity of certain media
products. Moreover, reports generated at step 216 may provide
value-added information on customer 60 behavior and usage. Also a
hybrid of canned or user definable reports can be downloaded to
another program (e.g. Excel).
[0072] It is understood that the above description of a content
provider's 50 process is exemplary and is in no way intended to
limit the scope of the present invention. Any similar system 2
using fewer or more, but similarly functioning steps is within the
contemplation of the present invention.
[0073] In one embodiment of the present invention, as illustrated
in flow chart FIG. 4, a content consumer's 60 process relates to
the front-end consumption of digital goods. This process preferably
occurs in sequential order described below, but is not limited in
that respect. At step 300, consumer 60 attempts to access a device,
e.g. PC, TV, game console (such as CE devices 94 and 98), to gain
access to digital media such as video, audio, forms, applications,
data and games. Consumer 60 selects the desired content (via mouse,
keyboard, remote control or device). Next, at step 302, the
hardware customer 60 is using is automatically identified. If
customer 60 is an existing one, when he/she enters the username,
password and personal identification number (PIN), profile
management module 16 identifies customer 60 via a secure
communication between device (94, 96 or 98) and profile management
module 16.
[0074] Customer 60 is given the ability to review descriptions of
available content irrespective of whether they are an existing
customer. They can view available media options at step 304, and
scan free and accessible content or preview materials that are on
sale. Next, at step 306, customer 60 selects from available content
using categories, menu items and list boxes. If customer 60 is new,
they may first register prior to having access to the information
from catalogue step 208 described above.
[0075] Available content may be based on customer's 60 previous
selections or on system 10 recommendations. At a next user
experience/transaction step 308, customer 60 completes a
transaction; all actions required to fulfill, complete and approve
a transaction are preferably part of this step. The present
invention simplifies the transaction process by reducing the number
of steps required for an end-user/customer 60 to interact with a
media service. Customer profiles stored on profile management
module 16 are captured to enable the automatic pre-fill of customer
data based on historical data.
[0076] Customers 60 can have multiple profiles tied to different
addresses or credit cards (debit cards, checks or pre-paid cards).
This information is stored in system 10 and is submitted to
commerce transaction module 18 at transaction user
experience/transaction step 308. Preferably, customer 60 only needs
to select the appropriate address and confirm the method of payment
at the time of the transaction. When the transaction is complete, a
confirmation is received by customer 60. Expediting the consumption
process serves to lower hurdles to transacting via a remote or
wireless device 98 in particular.
[0077] The present invention looks to enhance customer's 60 overall
media experience so that customer 60 returns to consume more
digital products. As such, media experience/consumption step 310
pertains to the customer's actual media usage experience. In this
step, attributes related to customer preferences are captured,
thereby enabling the personalization of the information stored in
the catalogue step 208 (as it consists of choices selected by
customer 60 as well as recommendations made by system 10 that are
based on customer's 60 prior selections). As a result, rather than
having to sift through potentially thousands or even hundreds of
thousands of content, media offerings are reduced to only those
that match customer's 60 desires, needs or interests. At step 312,
reports can be generated that enable customers to review a history
of a single transaction or view all transactions across content
providers.
[0078] It is understood that the above description of a consumer 60
process is exemplary and is in no way intended to limit the scope
of the present invention. Any similar system 10 using fewer or
more, but similarly functioning steps is within the contemplation
of the present invention.
[0079] In one embodiment of the present invention, a 2-way
communication stream is provided between content providers 50 and
content consumers 60. FIG. 5 illustrates a two way transmission
pathway 102 of customer preferences to the supply side of the
content exchange and the subsequent two way distribution pathway
104 of content to consumers 60 that matches their explicit and
implicit preferences. IBPS 100 is preferably carried out on systems
10 and 2 as described above or entirely in the content provider's
50 framework.
[0080] Each resulting interaction along these pathways 102 and 104
creates more efficient distribution between consumers 60 and
providers 50. For content consumers 60, this invention responds
with a simplified purchase process once their preferences are made
available to content provider 50. Also, once a content consumer 60
transacts for the first time, their transaction history results in
a more personalized experience. Further, content providers 50 can
create business rules that result in a more efficient workflow. The
more content that is pushed through the present invention, the more
results data that content provider 50 has about their distribution
and consumer 60 transactions.
[0081] In one embodiment of the present invention, content
consumer's 60 process, shown in FIG. 3, and content provider's 50
process, shown in FIG. 4, share common steps as illustrated in the
flow chart FIG. 6. Content providers 50 create rules for using and
selling content via a rules based engine 26; these policies serve
as a touch points for rules pertaining to a consumer's 60
rights/usage permissions as illustrated in step 204.
[0082] It is understood that content provider steps 200-216, from
FIG. 3 are essentially the same as described above. Likewise,
consumer 60 steps 300-312 from FIG. 4 are also essentially the same
as described above. FIG. 6 illustrates the flow diagram of cross
over points between these two processes.
[0083] For example, at a first crossover point, a rights management
400 step is provided. Content provider's 50 packaging rules from
step 204 are generated based on the customer's 60 desired content
from step 304. Likewise, options available to customer's 60 at
select content step 306 are provided based on
bundling/re-cataloging step 212 via a catalogue management
crossover step 402. Thus, the options available to customer 60 at
step 306 are based on knowledge of their interests.
[0084] At a next cross over step 404, this knowledge from display
presentation step 214 is used to determine user interface (UI)
requirements that provide a targeted end-user/customer 60
experience at media experience/consumption step 310. Moreover, at
reports crossover step 408, both customers 60 and content providers
50 may utilize reports generated at step 312 which are delivered
from system 10 directly to consumers 60 as well as directly to
content providers 50. Although reports crossover step 408 is
featured at the end of the crossover process, they may be generated
at anytime content provider 50 and content customer 60 wish to do
so.
[0085] It is understood that the above description of a crossover
steps shown in FIG. 6 are exemplary and is in no way intended to
limit the scope of the present invention. Any similar system using
fewer or more, but similarly functioning steps is within the
contemplation of the present invention.
[0086] While only certain features of the invention have been
illustrated and described herein, many modifications,
substitutions, changes or equivalents will now occur to those
skilled in the art. It is therefore, to be understood that this
application is intended to cover all such modifications and changes
that fall within the true spirit of the invention.
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