U.S. patent application number 12/697145 was filed with the patent office on 2011-08-04 for systems and methods enabling marketing and distribution of media content by content creators and content providers.
Invention is credited to Jeffrey D. Brandstetter, Joseph L. Spears.
Application Number | 20110191246 12/697145 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 44320141 |
Filed Date | 2011-08-04 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110191246 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Brandstetter; Jeffrey D. ;
et al. |
August 4, 2011 |
Systems and Methods Enabling Marketing and Distribution of Media
Content by Content Creators and Content Providers
Abstract
Systems and methods enabling marketing and distribution of
motion pictures and other media content by content creators and
other content providers are described herein. A platform is
provided by which a plurality of content providers can market and
distribute media content to users. Information about activity of
the users on the platform is obtained in relation to the item of
media content or in relation to media content related to the item
of media content. A request is received for an activity report
comprising information related to a user demographic or a media
content characteristic. Responsive to the activity report request,
the activity report is provided to the content provider.
Inventors: |
Brandstetter; Jeffrey D.;
(San Francisco, CA) ; Spears; Joseph L.; (Hayward,
CA) |
Family ID: |
44320141 |
Appl. No.: |
12/697145 |
Filed: |
January 29, 2010 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
705/59 ;
705/7.29 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04N 21/4782 20130101;
H04H 60/63 20130101; H04N 21/252 20130101; H04N 21/4828 20130101;
G06Q 30/0201 20130101; G06Q 30/02 20130101; H04H 60/66 20130101;
G06Q 30/06 20130101; H04N 21/4755 20130101; H04N 21/47211 20130101;
G06Q 30/0204 20130101; G06Q 30/0625 20130101; H04H 60/33 20130101;
H04N 21/25883 20130101; H04N 21/25841 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
705/59 ;
705/7.29 |
International
Class: |
G06F 21/00 20060101
G06F021/00; G06Q 50/00 20060101 G06Q050/00; G06Q 10/00 20060101
G06Q010/00; G06Q 30/00 20060101 G06Q030/00 |
Claims
1. A method of distributing an item of media content associated
with a content provider, the method comprising: providing a
platform by which a plurality of content providers can market and
distribute media content to users; obtaining, using the platform,
information about activity of the users on the platform in relation
to the item of media content or in relation to media content
related to the item of media content; receiving at the platform a
request, by a content provider in the plurality of content
providers, for an activity report comprising information related to
a user demographic or a media content characteristic; and
responsive to the activity report request, providing, using the
platform, the activity report to the content provider.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein the platform comprises a server
computer, and wherein the content provider interacts with the
server computer using a client device that is in communication with
the server computer via a network.
3. The method of claim 1, wherein the item of media content
comprises a digital motion picture, a digital sound recording, a
digital book, or a digital image.
4. The method of claim 1, wherein the content provider is the
content creator of the item of media content.
5. The method of claim 1, wherein the item of media content is
classified within one or more groupings in the set of groupings
consisting of genre, country of origin, spoken languages, subtitled
languages, period of release, a group of professional or government
certifications or ratings, industry festival or event selections,
nominee for a particular award or recognition, and awardee of a
particular award or recognition.
6. The method of claim 1, wherein the item of media content is
classified within a group of media related to a particular person
or entity.
7. The method of claim 1, wherein the information about activity of
the users on the platform comprises a user demographic or a media
content characteristic.
8. The method of claim 7, wherein the user demographic comprises
age, gender, educational background, financial status, employment
background, religion, written or spoken language or languages,
race, ethnic identity or background, or sexual orientation or
preference.
9. The method of claim 8, wherein the user demographic further
comprises a geographic location.
10. The method of claim 9, wherein the geographic location is a
city, state, country, or principality.
11. The method of claim 7, wherein the user demographic comprises
membership in a grouping or subgrouping of a plurality of users
based on a history of individual user interactions with the
platform as measured against a plurality of user interactions with
the platform.
12. The method of claim 7, wherein the media content characteristic
comprises one or more genres, a country of origin, one or more
spoken languages, a presence of subtitles, a release date, one or
more professional or government certifications or ratings, a
selection by one or more industry festivals or events, one or more
nominations or grant of one or more awards, or a list of
participants in the item of media content.
13. The method of claim 7, wherein the media content characteristic
comprises a list of participants in the item of media content and
wherein the list of participants in the item of media content
includes one or more contributors to creation of the item of media
content.
14. The method of claim 13, wherein the contributors to the
creation of the item of media content includes one or more
directors, one or more producers, one or more production managers,
one or more showrunners, one or more creators, one or more
cinematographers, one or more writers, one or more actors, one or
more art directors, one or more effects supervisors, one or more
music supervisors, one or more foley artists, one or more
technicians, one or more designers, or one or more editors.
15. The method of claim 13, wherein the contributors to the
creation of the item of media content includes one or more
recording artists, one or more musicians, one or more songwriters,
one or more composers, one or more engineers, or one or more
mixers.
16. The method of claim 13, wherein the contributors to the
creation of the item of media content includes one or more
programmers, one or more developers, one or more character
designers, one or more graphic designers, or one or more
artists.
17. The method of claim 13, wherein the list of participants in the
item of media content further includes one or distributors of the
item of media content, one or more subdistributors of the item of
media content, one or more producer's representatives for the item
of media content, one or more sales agents involved in sale of the
item of media content, one or more buyers involved in purchase of
the item of media content, one or more aggregators involved in
aggregation of the item of media content, one or more publishers of
the item of media content, one or more networks involved in
communication of the item of media content, one or more
broadcasters involved in broadcast of the item of media content, or
one or more syndicators involved in syndication of the item of
media content.
18. The method of claim 7, wherein the information about activity
of the users on the platform comprises a media content
characteristic and wherein the media content characteristic
comprises a grouping or subgrouping of the item of media content
based on the history of a plurality of user interactions with the
item of media content as measured against a plurality of user
interactions with media content different than the item of media
content.
19. The method of claim 7, wherein the information about user
activity on the platform further comprises a license
characteristic.
20. The method of claim 19, wherein the license characteristic
comprises a purchase price, an availability of content over a fixed
period of time, an availability to download content or a geographic
availability.
21. The method of claim 1, wherein the activity report request
further comprises information related to a license characteristic
for media content.
22. The method of claim 1, further comprising: receiving a
marketing request by the content provider to market the item of
media content, provided by the content provider of the item of
media content, to a subset of a plurality of users; and marketing,
responsive to the marketing request and using the platform, the
item of media content to the subset of users.
23. The method of claim 22, wherein the subset of users are of a
particular demographic.
24. The method of claim 23, wherein the particular demographic
comprises a shared membership in at least one of age or age range,
gender, educational background, financial status, employment
background, religion, written or spoken language or languages,
race, ethnic identity or background, or sexual orientation or
preference.
25. The method of claim 24, wherein the particular demographic
further comprises a geographic location.
26. The method of claim 25, wherein the geographic location is a
city, a state, a country, or a principality.
27. The method of claim 23, wherein the particular demographic
comprises a membership in a grouping or subgrouping of the
plurality of users based on (i) a history of individual user
interaction with the platform as measured against (ii) an aggregate
of a plurality of user interactions with the platform.
28. The method of claim 1, further comprising: distributing of the
item of media content to at least one user; and receiving at the
platform a request from the content provider to further market or
distribute the item of media content to a subset of users in a
plurality of users.
29. The method of claim 28, wherein the subset of the users
comprises users of a particular demographic.
30. The method of claim 29, wherein the particular demographic
comprises a shared membership in at least one of age or age range,
gender, educational background, financial status, employment
background, religion, written or spoken language or languages,
race, ethnic identity or background, or sexual orientation or
preference.
32. The method of claim 30, wherein the particular demographic
further comprises a geographic location.
33. The method of claim 32, wherein the geographic location is a
city, a state, a country, or a principality.
34. The method of claim 29, wherein the particular demographic
comprises a membership in a grouping or subgrouping of the
plurality of users based on (i) a history of the individual user
interactions with the platform as measured against (ii) an
aggregate of a plurality of user interactions with the
platform.
35. The method of claim 1, further comprising providing an updated
activity report to the content creator, the updated activity report
including information about user activity subsequent to a marketing
or a distribution of the item of media content.
36. The method of claim 1, further comprising marketing the item of
media content to a subset of users in a plurality of users.
37. A method of distributing an item of media content associated
with a content provider, the method comprising: providing a
platform by which a plurality of content providers can market and
distribute media content to users; obtaining, using the platform,
information about activity of the users on the platform in relation
to the item of media content or in relation to media content
related to the item of media content; receiving at the platform a
request, by a content provider in the plurality of content
providers, for an activity report comprising information related to
a license characteristic for media content; and responsive to the
activity report request, providing, using the platform, the
activity report to the content provider.
38. The method of claim 37, wherein the activity report further
comprises information related to a user demographic or a media
content characteristic.
39. A method of distributing an item of media content created by a
content creator, using a platform by which a first plurality of
users can market and distribute media content to a second plurality
of users, wherein the platform comprises one or more programmed
computers that are individually or collectively suitably programmed
to: (A) obtain information about activity of the second plurality
of users over the Internet or a computer network; (B) receive, at
the platform, a first request for an activity report about user
activity with respect to media content having a particular
characteristic, wherein the first request is received over the
Internet or the computer network from the content creator and
wherein the media content includes media that was not created by
the content creator; and (C) provide, responsive to the first
request, the activity report to the content creator over the
Internet or the computer network.
40. The method of 39, wherein the one or more programmed computers
are further individually or collectively suitably programmed to:
(D) receive, responsive to the activity report, a second request
over the Internet or the computer network by the content creator to
market the item of media content created by the content creator to
a first subset of the second plurality of users; and (E) market,
responsive to the second request, the item of media content using
the platform over the Internet or the computer network to the first
subset of the second plurality of users.
41. The method of claim 40, wherein the selection of the first
subset of the second plurality of users is responsive to the
activity report.
42. The method of 39, wherein the one or more programmed computers
are further individually or collectively suitably programmed to:
(D) distribute, using the platform the item of media content over
the Internet or the computer network to at least one user in the
first subset of the second plurality of users; and (E) receive, at
the platform, a second request from the content creator to market
or distribute the item of media content to a second subset of the
second plurality of users and wherein the second request is
received over the Internet or the computer network.
43. The method of claim 42, wherein the selection of the second
subset of the second plurality of users is responsive to the
activity report.
44. A computer-implemented system of distributing an item of media
content associated with a content provider, the system comprising:
a data processor; a computer-readable memory encoded with
instructions for commanding the data processor to execute steps
that include: providing a platform by which a plurality of content
providers can market and distribute media content to users;
obtaining, using the platform, information about activity of the
users on the platform in relation to the item of media content or
in relation to media content related to the item of media content;
receiving at the platform a request, by a content provider in the
plurality of content providers, for an activity report comprising
information related to a user demographic or a media content
characteristic; and responsive to the activity report request,
providing, using the platform, the activity report to the content
provider.
45. The system of claim 44, wherein the platform comprises a server
computer, and wherein the content provider interacts with the
server computer using a client device that is in communication with
the server computer via a network.
46. The system of claim 44, wherein the item of media content
comprises a digital motion picture, a digital sound recording, a
digital book, or a digital image.
47. The system of claim 44, wherein the content provider is the
content creator of the item of media content.
48. The system of claim 44, wherein the item of media content is
classified within one or more groupings in the set of groupings
consisting of genre, country of origin, spoken languages, subtitled
languages, period of release, a group of professional or government
certifications or ratings, industry festival or event selections,
nominee for a particular award or recognition, and awardee of a
particular award or recognition.
49. The system of claim 44, wherein the item of media content is
classified within a group of media related to a particular person
or entity.
50. The system of claim 44, wherein the information about activity
of the users on the platform comprises a user demographic or a
media content characteristic.
51. The system of claim 50, wherein the user demographic comprises
age, gender, educational background, financial status, employment
background, religion, written or spoken language or languages,
race, ethnic identity or background, or sexual orientation or
preference.
52. The system of claim 51, wherein the user demographic further
comprises a geographic location.
53. The system of claim 52, wherein the geographic location is a
city, state, country, or principality.
54. The system of claim 50, wherein the user demographic comprises
membership in a grouping or subgrouping of a plurality of users
based on a history of individual user interactions with the
platform as measured against a plurality of user interactions with
the platform.
55. The system of claim 50, wherein the media content
characteristic comprises one or more genres, a country of origin,
one or more spoken languages, a presence of subtitles, a release
date, one or more professional or government certifications or
ratings, a selection by one or more industry festivals or events,
one or more nominations or grant of one or more awards, or a list
of participants in the item of media content.
56. The system of claim 50, wherein the media content
characteristic comprises a list of participants in the item of
media content and wherein the list of participants in the item of
media content includes one or more contributors to creation of the
item of media content.
57. The system of claim 56, wherein the contributors to the
creation of the item of media content includes one or more
directors, one or more producers, one or more production managers,
one or more showrunners, one or more creators, one or more
cinematographers, one or more writers, one or more actors, one or
more art directors, one or more effects supervisors, one or more
music supervisors, one or more foley artists, one or more
technicians, one or more designers, or one or more editors.
58. The system of claim 56, wherein the contributors to the
creation of the item of media content includes one or more
recording artists, one or more musicians, one or more songwriters,
one or more composers, one or more engineers, or one or more
mixers.
59. The system of claim 56, wherein the contributors to the
creation of the item of media content includes one or more
programmers, one or more developers, one or more character
designers, one or more graphic designers, or one or more
artists.
60. The system of claim 56, wherein the list of participants in the
item of media content further includes one or distributors of the
item of media content, one or more subdistributors of the item of
media content, one or more producer's representatives for the item
of media content, one or more sales agents involved in sale of the
item of media content, one or more buyers involved in purchase of
the item of media content, one or more aggregators involved in
aggregation of the item of media content, one or more publishers of
the item of media content, one or more networks involved in
communication of the item of media content, one or more
broadcasters involved in broadcast of the item of media content, or
one or more syndicators involved in syndication of the item of
media content.
61. The system of claim 50, wherein the information about activity
of the users on the platform comprises a media content
characteristic and wherein the media content characteristic
comprises a grouping or subgrouping of the item of media content
based on the history of a plurality of user interactions with the
item of media content as measured against a plurality of user
interactions with media content different than the item of media
content.
62. The system of claim 50, wherein the information about user
activity on the platform further comprises a license
characteristic.
63. The system of claim 62, wherein the license characteristic
comprises a purchase price, an availability of content over a fixed
period of time, an availability to download content or a geographic
availability.
64. The system of claim 44, wherein the activity report request
further comprises information related to a license characteristic
for media content.
65. The system of claim 44, further comprising: receiving a
marketing request by the content provider to market the item of
media content, provided by the content provider of the item of
media content, to a subset of a plurality of users; and marketing,
responsive to the marketing request and using the platform, the
item of media content to the subset of users.
66. The system of claim 65, wherein the subset of users are of a
particular demographic.
67. The system of claim 66, wherein the particular demographic
comprises a shared membership in at least one of age or age range,
gender, educational background, financial status, employment
background, religion, written or spoken language or languages,
race, ethnic identity or background, or sexual orientation or
preference.
68. The system of claim 67, wherein the particular demographic
further comprises a geographic location.
69. The system of claim 68, wherein the geographic location is a
city, a state, a country, or a principality.
70. The system of claim 66 wherein the particular demographic
comprises a membership in a grouping or subgrouping of the
plurality of users based on (i) a history of individual user
interaction with the platform as measured against (ii) an aggregate
of a plurality of user interactions with the platform.
71. The system of claim 44, further comprising: distributing of the
item of media content to at least one user; and receiving at the
platform a request from the content provider to further market or
distribute the item of media content to a subset of users in a
plurality of users.
72. The system of claim 71, wherein the subset of the users
comprises users of a particular demographic.
73. The system of claim 72, wherein the particular demographic
comprises a shared membership in at least one of age or age range,
gender, educational background, financial status, employment
background, religion, written or spoken language or languages,
race, ethnic identity or background, or sexual orientation or
preference.
74. The system of claim 72, wherein the particular demographic
further comprises a geographic location.
75. The system of claim 72, wherein the geographic location is a
city, a state, a country, or a principality.
76. The system of claim 71, wherein the particular demographic
comprises a membership in a grouping or subgrouping of the
plurality of users based on (i) a history of the individual user
interactions with the platform as measured against (ii) an
aggregate of a plurality of user interactions with the
platform.
77. The system of claim 44, further comprising providing an updated
activity report to the content creator, the updated activity report
including information about user activity subsequent to a marketing
or a distribution of the item of media content.
78. The system of claim 44, further comprising marketing the item
of media content to a subset of users in a plurality of users.
79. A system of distributing an item of media content associated
with a content provider, the system comprising: a data processor; a
computer-readable memory encoded with instructions for commanding
the data processor to perform steps including: providing a platform
by which a plurality of content providers can market and distribute
media content to users; obtaining, using the platform, information
about activity of the users on the platform in relation to the item
of media content or in relation to media content related to the
item of media content; receiving at the platform a request, by a
content provider in the plurality of content providers, for an
activity report comprising information related to a license
characteristic for media content; and responsive to the activity
report request, providing, using the platform, the activity report
to the content provider.
80. The system of claim 79, wherein the activity report further
comprises information related to a user demographic or a media
content characteristic.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to systems and
methods for marketing and distributing media content, including
motion pictures, television programming, online games, music, and
other media content.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Content creators (e.g., filmmakers, television producers,
recording artists, online game developers, etc.) are significantly
limited in their ability to develop and execute content-related
strategies such as processing, marketing, promotion, management,
packaging, merchandising, fulfillment, delivery, distribution,
licensing, and enforcement of their own content and content-related
data. Effective mastering of such efforts is typically beyond the
capabilities of content creators because such efforts typically
require marketing and distribution resources that are unavailable
to the content creators. Because of this limitation, content
creators often seek to enter into content-related agreements in
which the content creators relinquish control with respect to some
or all rights in the content (e.g., a licensing agreement with a
film distributor granting various territory or media rights).
[0003] One drawback with traditional content-related agreements
(e.g., in the entertainment industry) is that they are rarely
available to content creators (e.g., independent filmmakers,
television producers, or game developers). In other words, often
only the most well-known content creators are able to secure a
content-related agreement (e.g., a distribution agreement,
assignment, or license) with a third party content provider (e.g.,
a distributor, subdistributor, sales agent, buyer, aggregator,
publisher, network, broadcaster, syndicator, assignee, or
licensee). Moreover, even when a content creator is able to secure
a content-related agreement, the terms are often very one-sided
favoring the content provider. Thus, these content-related
agreements are often unfairly restrictive to the content creator,
limiting additional marketing or distribution of content for a set
amount of time (e.g., until costs advanced or expended pursuant to
the agreement are fully recouped).
[0004] Additionally, often such agreements (i) do not contain any
provisions that impose a duty on the content provider to actively
market or promote the content creator's content, and/or (ii) the
content creator does not have sufficient leverage over the content
provider to enforce a provision requiring active marketing and/or
promotion of the content. As a result, these agreements can be
highly disadvantageous to a content creator for many reasons. For
example, over the term of such an agreement, the value of the
content is often diminished while the content creator awaits the
expiration of the agreement. Moreover, any failure of the content
provider to actively market or promote the content can postpone or
preclude any potential revenue that may be derived from the
content. This can prolong the time it takes for the content creator
to recoup the costs associated with creating the content, and in
some instances, preclude such recoupment altogether. This can
create a cash flow burden on the content creator. Additionally, the
terms of such agreements rarely require the content distributor,
subdistributor, assignee, or licensee to keep the content creator
informed of the success or progress of any content-related
strategies.
[0005] Thus, what is needed in the art are systems and methods for
empowering content creators to market and distribute their own
content without entering into onerous one-sided agreements with
content providers, such as distributors, subdistributors,
assignees, or licensees.
SUMMARY
[0006] Embodiments of the present invention provide systems and
methods enabling marketing and distribution of motion pictures,
television programming, online games, music, and other media
content by content creators (e.g., initial copyright owners;
"authors," as defined under U.S. copyright law; and those acquiring
ownership of media content, such as assignees). Among other things,
the systems and methods enable content creators to efficiently
market and distribute their content to a target audience based upon
reports. These reports can contain historical information regarding
purchases (e.g., of similar media content produced by other content
creators) by one or more demographic groups. Specifically,
information in reports can enable a content creator to devise and
execute a content marketing and distribution strategy at low cost,
and without the need to relinquish control of the content. The
content creator may periodically receive updated reports, and
revise one or more marketing or distribution strategies (e.g.,
based upon the updated reports, the initial reports, or a
combination of initial and updated reports). Because the content
creator retains his full rights in and to the media content, he may
market and distribute the content for any desired length of time
and to any desired number of geographic territories. Additionally,
the content creator may update his marketing and distribution
strategies as frequently as appropriate.
[0007] Thus, the systems and methods described herein can be used
to facilitate creation, execution, and revision of marketing and
distribution strategies for media content by the content creator.
Marketing and distribution strategies can be for any type of media
content, including media content in digital form that is
distributable over a network. In one specific example, the media
content is a motion picture or other audiovisual work.
[0008] Under one aspect, systems and methods enabling marketing and
distribution of motion pictures and other media content by content
creators may include providing a platform by which a plurality of
content providers can market and distribute media content to users.
Information about activity of the users on the platform may be
obtained in relation to the item of media content or in relation to
media content related to the item of media content. A request may
be received for an activity report comprising information related
to a user demographic or a media content characteristic. Responsive
to the activity report request, the activity report may be provided
to the content provider.
[0009] As another example, a method of distributing an item of
media content associated with a content provider may include
providing a platform by which a plurality of content providers can
market and distribute media content to users and obtaining, using
the platform, information about activity of the users on the
platform in relation to the item of media content or in relation to
media content related to the item of media content. Systems and
methods may further include receiving at the platform a request, by
a content provider in the plurality of content providers, for an
activity report comprising information related to a license
characteristic for media content and responsive to the activity
report request, providing, using the platform, the activity report
to the content provider.
[0010] As a further example, a method of distributing an item of
media content associated with a content provider, using a platform
by which a first plurality of users can market and distribute media
content to a second plurality of users, wherein the platform
comprises one or more programmed computers that, individually or
collectively, may be suitably programmed to (A) obtain information
about activity of the second plurality of users over the Internet
or a computer network, (B) receive, at the platform, a first
request for an activity report about user activity with respect to
media content having a particular characteristic, wherein the first
request is received over the Internet or the computer network from
the content creator and wherein the media content includes media
that was not created by the content creator, and (C) provide,
responsive to the first request, the activity report to the content
creator over the Internet or the computer network.
[0011] The details of one or more embodiments of the invention are
set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below.
Other features, aspects, and advantages of the invention will
become apparent from the description, the drawings, and the
claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] FIG. 1A is a flow chart of an exemplary method of
facilitating the marketing and distribution of a particular item of
media content by the creator of that media content.
[0013] FIG. 1B is a flow chart of steps in an exemplary method of
marketing and distributing a particular item of media content by a
content creator.
[0014] FIG. 1C schematically illustrates an exemplary system for
facilitating a content creator's marketing and distribution of a
particular item of media content.
[0015] FIG. 2 shows an exemplary display of certain components
within a content management system.
[0016] FIG. 3 shows an exemplary display of additional components
within a content management system.
[0017] FIG. 4 shows an exemplary interface for use by a content
creator.
[0018] FIG. 5 shows an exemplary interface for a catalog
control.
[0019] FIG. 6 shows an exemplary interface for adding or editing
content using a control within the catalog manager.
[0020] FIG. 7 shows another example of an interface for adding or
editing content using a control within the catalog manager.
[0021] FIG. 8 shows another example of an interface for adding or
editing content using a control within the catalog manager.
[0022] FIG. 9 shows another example of an interface for adding or
editing content using a control within the catalog manager.
[0023] FIG. 10 shows another example of an interface for adding or
editing content using a control within the catalog manager.
[0024] FIG. 11 shows another example of an interface for adding or
editing content using a control within the catalog manager.
[0025] FIG. 12 shows another example of an interface for adding or
editing content using a control within the catalog manager.
[0026] FIG. 13 shows an exemplary interface for creating offers
using a control within the catalog manager.
[0027] FIG. 14 shows an example of an interface for use when
interacting with one or more licensing packages.
[0028] FIG. 15 shows an example of an interface for creating an
offer.
[0029] FIG. 16 shows an example of an interface for use when
interacting with one or more licensing packages.
[0030] FIG. 17 shows another example of an interface for creating
an offer.
[0031] FIG. 18 shows an exemplary up-sell interface for creating an
up-sell option using a control within the catalog manager.
[0032] FIG. 19 shows an exemplary interface for use when
interacting with one or more up-sell licensing packages.
[0033] FIG. 20 shows an exemplary cross-sell interface for creating
a cross-sell option using a control within the catalog manager.
[0034] FIG. 21 shows an example of an interface for use when
interacting with one or more cross-sell licensing packages.
[0035] FIG. 22 shows an example of an indirect interface for
creating an insider offer using a control within the catalog
manager.
[0036] FIG. 23 shows an example of an interface for use when
interacting with one or more pitch licensing packages.
[0037] FIG. 24 shows an example of an interface for use by an
industry insider.
[0038] FIG. 25 shows an example of an interface for setting and
editing user account settings.
[0039] FIG. 26 shows an example of an interface for viewing account
activity.
[0040] FIG. 27 also shows an example of an interface for viewing
account activity.
[0041] FIG. 28 also shows an example of an interface for viewing
account activity.
[0042] FIG. 29 also shows an example of an interface for viewing
account activity.
[0043] FIG. 30 shows an example of an interface for use by a user
when interacting with the system.
[0044] FIG. 31 shows an example of an interface for browsing
content.
[0045] FIG. 32 shows an example of an interface including a
depiction of content from the perspective associated with an
example control.
[0046] FIG. 33 shows an example of an interface including a
depiction of content from the perspective associated with another
example control.
[0047] FIG. 34 shows an example of an interface including a
depiction of content from the perspective associated with another
example control.
[0048] FIG. 35 shows an example of an expanded interface for use by
a user when interacting with the system.
[0049] FIG. 35A shows an exemplary interface including a licensing
package upgrade option.
[0050] FIG. 36 shows an exemplary interface including an additional
"reviews" control.
[0051] FIG. 37 shows an example of an interface displaying review
data in an expanded viewing area.
[0052] FIG. 38 shows an example of an interface that includes an
additional "tags" control.
[0053] FIG. 39 shows an example of an interface displaying tag data
in an expanded viewing area.
[0054] FIG. 40 shows an example of an interface including an
exemplary activity report.
[0055] FIG. 41 shows an example of an interface including another
exemplary activity report.
[0056] FIG. 42 shows an example of an interface including another
exemplary activity report.
[0057] FIG. 43 shows an example of an interface including another
exemplary activity report.
[0058] FIG. 44 shows an example of an interface including another
exemplary activity report.
[0059] FIG. 45 shows an example of an interface including another
exemplary activity report.
[0060] FIG. 46 shows an example of an interface including a pie
chart graphic interpretation of content.
[0061] FIG. 47 shows an example of an interface including a pie
chart graphic interpretation of content.
[0062] FIG. 48 shows an example of an interface including a bar
chart graphic interpretation of content.
[0063] FIG. 49 shows an example of an interface including a bar
chart graphic interpretation of content.
[0064] Like reference numbers and designations in the various
drawings indicate like elements.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0065] Embodiments of the present invention provide a fundamental
shift in the way business can be done with respect to media
marketing and distribution. Specifically, the systems and methods
provided herein enable a content creator (e.g., a filmmaker,
musician, or artist) to leverage information compiled about similar
media content (e.g., media content created by other content
creators) in order to develop and execute "do it yourself" or "do
it with others" strategies for marketing and distributing their own
content. This information can be compiled, for example, by a
platform that both the particular content creator, and other
content creators, can use to market and distribute their content to
users. As the users use such a platform, the platform can collect
information about the users (e.g., their demographics) and user
activity (e.g., with respect to each item of content marketed or
distributed on the platform). Such information can be compiled into
reports for use by content creators in developing and executing one
or more strategies for marketing and distributing their own
content.
[0066] For example, if upon reviewing a report, a content creator
determines that first-person horror films are particularly popular
with 18-24 year-old males, then the content creator can develop a
strategy for marketing primarily to that demographic. In some
implementations, the platform can periodically provide updated
reports to the content creator, who can adapt the marketing
strategy to more efficiently market the content (e.g., based upon
new information in the reports and upon the success of the initial
marketing strategy). In contrast, as noted above, content creators
have traditionally been limited in the amount and types of user
purchase information they can feasibly obtain about similar types
of media content. As such, they have previously been limited to
using conventional methods of marketing and distributing content,
which typically require the content creator to relinquish rights in
the content to a third party. Relinquishing rights to content
limits the content creator's ability to control the marketing and
distribution of that content in the future.
[0067] FIG. 1A is a flow chart of an exemplary method 10 of
facilitating the marketing and distribution of a particular item of
media content by the creator of that media content. The item of
media content can be any original work of authorship fixed in any
tangible medium of expression, now known or later developed, from
which the item of media content can be perceived, reproduced, or
otherwise communicated, either directly or with the aid of a
machine or a device. That is, the item of media content is the
subject matter of a copyright, and the content creator is a human
who is the initial (original) owner of that copyright by virtue of
having created the work. It should be understood that some original
works of authorship may have been jointly created, in which case
each joint creator is an initial (original) owner of the copyright
of the work, and is considered to be a content creator. In other
circumstances, an original work may have been "made for hire,"
e.g., made under the direction of another human or of an employer;
the human or employer who directed the work is considered to be the
author of the work for the purposes of copyright law, and is
considered to be the initial (original) owner of the copyright for
the purposes of this application. In either circumstance, if a
content creator has the right to market and distribute the item of
media content, he may do so using the systems and methods described
herein.
[0068] In some circumstances, the content creator may develop and
execute a marketing and distribution strategy collaboratively with
one or more other persons or entities; in such a circumstance, each
member of the collaborative team may be considered to be an agent
of the content creator, and can equally use the systems and methods
described herein. Examples of such collaborators may, for example,
include actors in a motion picture, or audience members.
[0069] In many of the embodiments described herein, the item of
media content is a digital work of authorship, embodied in a
computer-readable medium, that can be distributed to a user's
computer over a network, and that can be experienced by the user
via one or more output devices connected to the user's computer.
For example, the digital work of authorship can be a motion picture
or other audiovisual work stored on a remote server, that can be
distributed to the user's computer via a network, and that can be
displayed on a display device connected to the user's computer
and/or audibly projected with audio speakers connected to the
user's computer. Or, for example, the digital work of authorship
can be a sound recording that similarly can be distributed to the
user's computer via a network, and that can be audibly projected
with audio speakers connected to the user's computer. Other types
of digital works of authorship that can be distributed include
literary works (e.g., "digital books") and pictorial or graphic
works (e.g., digital images). However, it should be understood that
the systems and methods described herein can be used to facilitate
marketing and distribution of any original work of authorship,
including those fixed in a tangible medium of expression other than
a computer-readable memory. As used herein, an item of media
content is fixed in any tangible medium of expression when a copy
of the media content is made that is sufficiently permanent or
stable to permit the media content to be perceived, reproduced, or
otherwise communicated for a period of more than transitory
duration.
[0070] Referring to FIG. 1A, method 10 includes providing a
platform by which content creators can market and distribute media
content to users (11). A platform can include any suitable system
or method by which media content can be marketed and distributed.
Additionally, platform information can include any information
corresponding to use of the media content (e.g., activity and
demographics of users using a platform corresponding to particular
media content). In many of the embodiments described herein, a
platform includes a computer architecture having a server and a
client that communicate over a network, for example as described
further below with respect to FIG. 1C. However, it should be
understood that any suitable platform can be used, including those
based upon technologies other than computer architecture.
[0071] Method 10 also includes obtaining information about user
activity on the platform (12). Such information can include, for
example, user demographics (e.g., ages, geographical locations,
ethnicities, genders). Such information can also include, for
example, the characteristics of the media content with which each
of the users interact, such as the type of media content (e.g.,
video, audio, graphic, or literary work), the quality of the media
content (e.g., high definition, low definition), the rating of the
media content (e.g., "PG" or "R"), the genre of the media content
(e.g., horror, drama), the way in which the user interacted with
the media content (e.g., clicked on an advertisement for the media
content, purchased a license to the media content, or purchased the
media content outright), and/or the price, if any, that the user
paid for the particular interaction with the media content.
[0072] In embodiments in which the platform includes a
server-client computer architecture, the server may include modules
for marketing and distributing media content to users, collecting
information about the users and the media content with which they
interact, and storing the collected information in a
computer-readable medium, such as a database. As used herein, the
term "server" is used merely to distinguish devices that provide
content from those devices that receive content (e.g., clients). In
fact, in many instances, there may be little or no difference
between the architecture of the serving devices and the client
devices, with the exception that, typically, the server devices
provide content and the client devices receive content. Moreover,
it will be appreciated by those of skill in the art that the server
may run serving software (e.g., Apache), whereas the client devices
typically do not. Moreover, it will be appreciated that the
networking methods disclosed herein are not limited to
client-server implementations. The examples of such architectures
is merely given to provide an example of a way to implement the
inventive methods. One of skill in the art, based on the present
disclosure, will appreciated that other embodiments that do not
make use of a client-server architecture are possible and all such
implementations are within the scope of the present disclosure.
[0073] Method 10 further includes receiving a request from a
content creator for an activity report on media content having a
particular characteristic (13). For example, the content creator
may have created a particular item of media content, such as a
motion picture, that the content creator categorizes within a
particular genre. Additionally, the content creator may want to
market to a demographic most likely to pay a particular (e.g., the
highest) fee to receive distribution of the media content.
Moreover, the content creator may want to learn more about user
activity corresponding to other media content, created by other
media creators, within the particular genre in which he believes
his content can be best categorized. Thus, the content creator can
submit a request for an activity report to the platform, and about
media content having the particular characteristic of interest
(genre being only one example of such a characteristic). In
embodiments in which the platform includes a server-client computer
architecture, the client may include a module for constructing such
a request and transmitting the request to the server over a
network.
[0074] Method 10 further includes, responsive to the content
creator's request, providing an activity report to the content
creator (14). For example, the activity report can be dynamically
constructed based upon a particular request of the content creator.
Alternatively, the activity report can be prepared ahead of time,
(e.g., on a predetermined basis), stored, and subsequently
retrieved from persistent storage and provided to the content
creator responsive to a request. In embodiments in which the
platform includes a server-client architecture, the server may
include a module for receiving such a request, for obtaining the
activity report responsive to the request, and for providing the
activity report to the client over the network.
[0075] Method 10 further includes receiving a request from the
content creator to market his particular item of media content
(e.g., to users of a particular demographic (15) or known
interest). For example, upon reviewing the activity report, the
content creator may conclude that an item of media content could be
most effectively marketed to males aged 18-22. As such, the content
creator can construct a request to market the item of media content
to users of that particular demographic (e.g., using the platform).
Or, for example, upon viewing the activity report, the content
creator may conclude that because of varying user preferences, two
packages of the item of media content should be made available to
users (e.g., both a limited-time license and a purchase option).
Thus, in this example, a content creator could conclude that both a
first price for the license and a second, higher price for a
purchase option could be made available to users. Note that the
content creator can request the platform to market any number or
type of packages of media content to any number or type of user
demographic, and at any price. Examples of client-based interfaces
by which the content creator can construct suitable marketing
requests are provided further below.
[0076] Method 10 further includes, responsive to the request,
marketing a particular item of media content to users of a
particular demographic using the platform (16). For example, as
described above, the platform is configured so as to monitor user
demographics as they interact with media content on the system.
Based on such monitoring, the platform can, for example, display an
advertisement for the item of media content to a user that the
platform has identified as being within the particular
demographic.
[0077] Method 10 further includes distributing the particular item
of media content to users using the platform (17). For example, the
users can purchase an item or a license to an item, and can
download the item over the network (e.g., onto a computer for
viewing and/or listening). Additionally, even if not marketed to
them, users outside a particular targeted demographic can purchase
any item. Thus, in some instances, users outside the particular
targeted demographic can be interested in the item, while users
within the particular targeted demographic are not interested in
the item. For example, the tastes of users within a particular
targeted demographic can change; or, for example, the content
creator may have erroneously categorized the item of media content
to be part of a particular genre when in fact it is more
appropriately categorized as part of another genre. Thus, user
tastes are highly variable and not always possible to predict, even
given accurate historical information about user activity with
respect to particular types of content.
[0078] Method 10 also includes providing an updated activity report
to the content creator (18). The report includes information about
user activity corresponding to media content having a particular
characteristic, which may be the same or different than the
characteristic about which the report was provided in step 14, that
has occurred between steps 14 and 18 (e.g., includes more recent
information than that in the report of step 14). Such a report can
be provided on a one-time basis, responsive to a second request
from the content creator (not shown). Alternatively, such a report
can be automatically provided to the content creator on a periodic
basis, for example responsive to a request by the content creator
in step 13 to automatically and periodically provide updated
activity reports with a predetermined frequency and for a
predetermined amount of time. In embodiments in which the platform
includes a server-client architecture, the server may include
instructions, embodied in a computer-readable medium, to
periodically generate such a report(s).
[0079] Method 10 further includes receiving a request from the
content creator to market the particular item of media content to
users of a particular demographic that may be different from the
earlier demographic (e.g., may be different from those defined in
step 15) (19). For example, after viewing the updated activity
report and considering the user activity generated by his own
initial marketing/distribution strategy (e.g., the number and/or
type of distribution instances during step 17), the content creator
may conclude that modifying his initial strategy may result in
improved distribution of his content.
[0080] Method 10 includes, responsive to the request of step 19,
marketing the particular item of media content to users of that
particular demographic via the platform (16) and distributing the
particular item of media content to users via the platform (17)
(e.g., as described above). Method 10 can further include providing
one or more additional updated activity reports to the content
creator (18), for example on a periodic basis, as discussed above.
Method 10 can further include receiving one or more additional
requests (e.g., from a content creator) to market a particular item
of media content to users of a particular demographic (e.g., other
than a demographic to which the content was previously marketed).
Note, however, that the systems and methods described herein do not
require that the content creator receive an updated report before
revising his marketing/distribution strategy (e.g., before
submitting a request to the platform to market the item of media
content to users of another particular demographic). Because the
content creator retains full rights in the media content, he can
revise, update, or modify his marketing and distribution strategies
as frequently as desired, and for as long a time period as desired.
In comparison, signing an agreement with a content distributor, for
example, often requires a content creator to effectively relinquish
some or all of the rights in an item of media content, in addition
to control over marketing and distribution of the media
content.
[0081] It will be appreciated that loop 16-19 may be repeated any
number of times necessary to achieve the distribution goals of the
content creator. Moreover, it will be appreciated that several
concurrent instances of loop 16-19 can occur at any given time. For
example, one iteration of loop 16-19 may be directed to a first
demographic, where this first demographics is then altered or
defined (e.g., first demographic prime), at step 19 of the loop.
Additionally, another concurrent iteration of loop 16-19 may be
directed to a second demographic, where this second demographics is
then altered or defined at step 19 of the loop (e.g., first
demographic prime). In other words, at step 15 of the method
depicted in FIG. 1A, a content creator can choose two or more
different demographics (e.g., two different campaigns), where the
two or more demographics have some or no overlap with each other
and where the user can simultaneously refine, add or drop selected
demographics using separate marketing campaigns.
[0082] FIG. 1B is a flow chart of steps in an exemplary method 20
for marketing and distributing an item of media content using a
platform. Note that while method 10 of FIG. 1A can be considered to
represent a platform perspective corresponding to interactions
between the platform and the content creator, method 20 of FIG. 1B
can be considered to represent a content creator perspective
corresponding to interactions between the content creator and the
platform.
[0083] Method 20 includes interfacing with a platform by which
content creators can market and distribute media content to users
(21). The platform obtains information about user activity on the
platform, (e.g., user demographics, characteristics of the media
content with which the users interact, and the purchase price, if
any, the users pay for instances of distribution of the content).
In implementations utilizing a server-client computer architecture,
the content provider may interface with the server computer via a
client computer.
[0084] Method 20 further includes requesting from the platform, an
activity report about media content having a particular
characteristic (22). For example, as noted above, a content creator
can consider a particular item of media content to belong to (e.g.,
to be categorizes within), a particular genre. Thus, the content
creator may desire to learn more about historical user activity
with respect to other items of media content belonging to that
particular genre. As such, the content creator can use any
appropriate interface to construct and submit the request to the
platform. In one illustrative example, the content creator can use
a graphic user interface on a client computer to construct a
request, which the client can then submit to the platform using a
network.
[0085] Method 20 further includes receiving and displaying the
activity report from the platform, (23). For example, if the
content creator is using a client computer, the client computer may
receive the activity report using a network, store the activity
report in a computer-readable medium in the computer (e.g., a hard
drive or a cache memory), and display the activity report to the
content creator via an appropriate interface device, such as a
display screen connected to the client computer.
[0086] Method 20 further includes submitting a request to the
platform (e.g., based upon an activity report), to market a
particular item of media content (e.g., to users of a particular
demographic (24) or interest). As noted above, a content creator
may, based upon the activity report, conclude that marketing the
media content to users of a particular demographic would be a
successful marketing strategy. The request may be directed to any
desired number or type of packaging of the media content, to any
desired number or type of user demographics, and at any desired
price(s).
[0087] Method 20 further includes distributing the particular item
of media content to users via the platform (25). For example, as
described in greater detail below, users can interface with the
platform so as to view information about different available items
of media content (including that of the content creator), to view
advertisements that the platform may display to them, and to pay
money in exchange for a distribution of the media content (e.g., a
license to experience the media content for a limited amount of
time or a limited number of viewings/listenings, or a "purchase" of
the media content enabling them to experience the content for an
unlimited amount of time). Such a user interaction may, for
example, be based upon a server-client computer architecture in
which the user interfaces with the platform (e.g., the server)
using a client computer over a network.
[0088] Method 20 further includes receiving and displaying an
updated activity report from the platform (26). As discussed above,
the platform can provide such an updated activity report on an
as-requested basis, or automatically, on a predetermined periodic
basis (e.g., without human intervention).
[0089] Based on the updated activity report, the content creator
can submit a request to the platform to market a particular item of
media content to users of a particular demographic that may be
different from the earlier demographic (e.g., different from the
demographic defined in step 24 (27)). For example, based on the
activity report received and displayed in step 23 and/or personal
experience with marketing/distributing the item of media content,
the content creator may conclude that a modified version of the
initial marketing/distribution strategy may be more successful.
Based upon this request, the platform can market the item of media
content to that demographic, as discussed above. Then, using the
platform, the content creator can distribute the particular item of
media content to users (25). As noted above, the content creator
can receive one or more additional updated activity reports, and
can revise marketing/distribution strategies as frequently as
desired, for any desired duration of time, based on such reports
and/or based on personal experiences in marketing and distributing
the item of media content. Because full rights in the item of media
content are retained by the content creator, marketing and
distribution strategies are limited only by personal resources,
risk aversion, and imagination.
[0090] Now that an overview of the novel systems and methods for
facilitating the marketing and distribution of media content (e.g.,
motion pictures), by content creators have been disclosed, a more
detailed description of one exemplary system in accordance with a
first embodiment of the present disclosure is described in
conjunction with FIG. 1C. As such, FIG. 1C illustrates an exemplary
server-client computer architecture 100 in accordance with the
present disclosure. It should be noted, however, that the systems
and methods described herein are not limited to computer-based
implementations, such as that of FIG. 1C.
[0091] The architecture illustrated in FIG. 1C includes a server
101 and a client device 111 that are configured to communicate with
one another via the Internet or other network 121. Of course, other
architectures are possible, for example, the server 101 can in fact
comprise several servers. Moreover, typically, there are hundreds,
thousands, or even hundreds of thousands of client devices 111 or
more in communication with the server 101 via the network 121. The
exemplary topology shown in FIG. 1C merely serves to describe the
features of the first embodiment of the present disclosure in a
manner that will be readily understood to one of skill in the art.
Further, it will be appreciated that the present disclosure is not
limited to client--server implementations and, in fact, embodiments
that do not have such implementations are specifically encompassed
within the scope of the present disclosure.
[0092] The server 101 will typically have one or more processing
units (CPUs) 10, a network or other communications interface (NIC)
110, a memory 114, one or more magnetic disk storage and/or
persistent devices 120 optionally accessed by one or more
controllers 118, one or more communication busses 112 for
interconnecting the aforementioned components, and a power supply
124 for powering the aforementioned components. Data in memory 114
can be seamlessly shared with non-volatile memory 120 using known
computing techniques such as caching. Memory 114 and/or memory 120
can include mass storage that is remotely located with respect to
the central processing unit(s) 108. In other words, some data
stored in memory 114 and/or memory 120 may in fact be hosted on
computers that are external to the server 101 but that can be
electronically accessed by the server 101 over an Internet,
intranet, or other form of network or electronic cable (illustrated
as element 121) using network interface 110.
[0093] Memory 114 preferably stores: [0094] an operating system 130
that includes procedures for handling various basic system services
and for performing hardware dependent tasks; [0095] a network
communications module 132 that is used for connecting the server
101 to various client computers such as client devices 111 and
possibly to other servers or computers (such as user computers, not
shown) via one or more communication networks, such as the
Internet, other wide area networks, local area networks (e.g., a
local wireless network can connect the client devices 111 to the
server 101), metropolitan area networks, and so on; [0096] a report
module 134 that collects information about user activity with
respect to media content on the platform for use in generating
activity reports, that stores such information in report database
136, that receives requests from client device 111 for activity
reports via network 121 and appropriate hardware there between, and
generates activity reports responsive to such requests, and that
transmits such activity reports to client device 111 via network
121 and appropriate hardware there between; [0097] a marketing
module 138 that receives requests from client device 111 to market
a particular item of media content to users of a particular
demographic, generates suitable marketing campaigns responsive to
such requests, and distributes such marketing campaigns to user
computers (not shown) via network 121; [0098] a distribution module
140 that receives user requests for distribution of items of media
content via network 121, that distributes such items of media
content to user computers via network 121 responsive to such
requests and in accordance with digital rights management
constraints defined by the content creator, and that receives
payment from users in exchange for such distribution via network
121; and [0099] a database of media content 142, e.g., containing a
plurality of items of media content created by a plurality of
content creators who digitally transmitted the items of media
content to server 101 via network 121 for distribution to users.
Database 142 need not necessarily be co-located with the remainder
of server 101.
[0100] Note that report module 134, report database 136, marketing
module 138, and distribution module 140 can be considered to form a
"content management system." As described in greater detail below,
such a content management system may have additional
functionalities and components, such as a catalog. Report database
136 and/or content database 142 can store raw or derived
content-related data (e.g., metadata) for use in determining
actions to be taken (e.g., based on particular analysis or
constraints). Examples of report database 136 and/or content
database 142 include relational database management systems
(RDBMS), or a multi-dimensional database (MDDB), such as an Online
Analytical Processing (OLAP) database. In one embodiment, report
database 136 and content database 142 constitute a single
database.
[0101] The server 101 is connected via Internet/network 121 to one
or more client devices 111 and to one or more user computers (not
shown). FIG. 1C illustrates the connection to only one such client
device 111. It is possible for the client device 111 or user
computers (not shown) to be a personal computer (e.g., desktop or
laptop computer) or any form of mobile computing device (e.g., an
iPhone, BlackBerry, and the like).
[0102] In typical embodiments, a client device 111 comprises:
[0103] one or more processing units (CPUs) 2; [0104] a network or
other communications interface 40; [0105] a memory 54; [0106]
optionally, one or more magnetic disk storage and/or persistent
storage devices 50 accessed by one or more optional controllers 48;
[0107] a user interface 4, the user interface 4 including a display
6 and a keyboard or keypad 8; [0108] one or more communication
busses 42 for interconnecting the aforementioned components; and
[0109] a power supply 44 for powering the aforementioned
components, which power supply can be, for example, batteries. In
some embodiments, data in memory 54 can be seamlessly shared with
optional non-volatile memory 20 using known computing techniques
such as caching. In some embodiments the client device 111 does not
have a magnetic disk storage device. For instance, in some
embodiments, the client device 111 is a portable handheld computing
device, e.g., a laptop computer, a personal digital assistant, a
cellular telephone, a Blackberry, or an iPhone, and the network
interface 40 communicates with the Internet/network 121 by wireless
means.
[0110] The memory 54 preferably stores: [0111] an operating system
30 that includes procedures for handling various basic system
services and for performing hardware dependent tasks; [0112] a
network communication module 32 that is used for connecting client
device 111 to other computers such as server 101, in some
embodiments the network communication module 32 includes an
optional web browser, such as Microsoft Internet Explorer versions
6.0 or later, Firefox 2.x, Firefox 3.x, AOL 9, Opera 9.5 or later,
Safari 3.x, Chrome 2.0 or higher, and, in some embodiments, the
optional web browser includes a module such as a FLASH player;
[0113] a client application 34 that interfaces with server 101 and
includes the following three modules: [0114] a report module 36
that generates an interface for display on display 6 that a content
creator can use to generate a request for an activity report, that
sends such a request to server 101 via network 121, that receives
the requested activity report from server 101 via network 121, and
that processes the received report so that the report is displayed
on display 6 for the content creator to view; [0115] a marketing
module 38 that generates an interface for display on display 6 that
a content creator can use to generate a request for a particular
marketing campaign, e.g., to request that a particular item of
media content be marketed to users of a particular demographic, and
that the content creator can use to pay for such a marketing
campaign, and that sends such a request to server 101 via network
121; and [0116] a distribution module 39 that generates an
interface for display on display 6 that a content creator can use
to monitor user activity with respect to a particular item of media
content that he created and made available for distribution via
server 101 (e.g., had added to content database 142 and/or defined
a marketing campaign for). Such information may, for example, be
provided to distribution module by report module 134 in server
101.
[0117] Note that users can interact with server 101 in any of a
variety of suitable ways. For example, as described below, the
users may interact directly with server 101 via a web page-like
interface. Alternatively, the content creator may post a "fan
page," advertisement, or other information about an item of media
content on a website e.g., a social networking website, such as
FaceBook or MySpace. If the users want to obtain even information
about the item, they can click on a designated link on the posted
page or ad, which link will take the user to a web page that
interfaces with server 101. Or, alternatively, the users may the
users may interact with server 101 via a dedicated website created
by the content creator that is "powered by" server 101. That is,
server 101 can market and distribute media content to users via
content creator-defined interfaces.
[0118] FIG. 2 shows an example display 200 of certain components
within a platform for marketing and distributing media content. As
noted above, in one non-limiting example, the platform is a server
computer that interfaces with one or more client devices. However
other implementations can be used. In some implementations, the
platform can include a catalog 201. The catalog can include static
elements corresponding to aspects of the content that remain
constant (e.g., or unchanging) in the platform. For example, a
catalog can include static elements corresponding to aspects of
multimedia content, such as video (e.g., film) content 202. In this
example, video content 202 can include certain video attributes
(e.g., title, plot, genre, ratings, credits, artwork, etc.). In
other examples, a catalog can include static elements corresponding
to other types of multimedia content such as game content, audio
content, e-books, software, electronic photos, and electronic
artwork. Content can be added or deleted from the catalog, thus the
catalog can be dynamic. The content within the catalog (e.g., the
plot of a movie within the catalog), is editable but does not
generally change and thus the content can be static. Thus, catalog
data can be a globally constant description (e.g., of defined
structured data fields), that includes individual references
corresponding to the content of each object (e.g., a video)
individually. The catalog 201 can be stored, for example, in
content database 142 of server 101 illustrated in FIG. 1C.
[0119] In some implementations, the platform can include one or
more promotional functionalities 203. For example, a promotional
functionality 203 can include a limited ability to promote (market)
content without the ability to sell the content. In this example, a
content creator can promote content prior to the content being
available to a user (e.g., for purchase). In another example, a
third party (meaning someone other than a content provider or
recipients of content from the content provide) can create
promotions (e.g., as an influencer), for a larger audience.
Additionally, a third party can receive a commission for promoting
content without having a license to sell the content. This aspect
will be discussed in greater detail with respect to FIGS. 22-24
below. The promotional functionality 203 can be, for example, part
of marketing module 138 of server 101 illustrated in FIG. 1C.
[0120] In some implementations, a promotional functionality 203 can
include an ability to up-sell content or properties of such content
(e.g., the grant of a license to the content, the expansion of the
terms of the license to the content, an expansion of the quality,
resolution or other property of the content). In an example of such
implementations, when a user exhibits an interest in paying a first
amount for a limited use license to use content for a predefined
time period, the content creator can dynamically create and offer
the user another license option to use the same content at a second
amount and for a greater period of time. For example, when a user
selects a content rental option or rents content (e.g., a video)
for $5.00, the content creator (e.g., the filmmaker), is notified
or otherwise made aware (e.g., by requesting a report). Once aware,
the content creator can dynamically create and offer a content
purchase option (e.g., reduce a purchase price from $15.00 to
$11.00) to that user. This aspect will be discussed in greater
detail with respect to FIGS. 18-19, below.
[0121] In some implementations, promotional functionality 203 can
include an ability to cross-sell content. The cross-sell option can
allow the content creator the ability to familiarize the user with
more content (e.g., content the user may not otherwise be aware
of).
[0122] For example, when a user exhibits an interest in learning
about content, the content creator can dynamically create a
reference to related content. In this example, when a user selects
a page on which content is hosted, the content creator is notified
or otherwise made aware. Once aware, the content creator can
dynamically create a reference to related content (e.g., if you
like A, you may be interested in B).
[0123] In another example, when a user exhibits an interest in
licensing content, the content creator can dynamically create and
offer the user another license option for similar content. In this
example, when a user selects a content rental or purchase option
corresponding to first content (e.g., a video), the content creator
is notified or otherwise made aware. Once aware, the content
creator can dynamically create and offer a content purchase option
for similar second content (e.g., if you like A, you can buy B for
$3.00).
[0124] In yet another example, when a user exhibits an interest in
licensing content, the content creator can dynamically create and
offer the user an additional license for similar content. In this
example, when a user selects a web page or panel on which content
is hosted, the content creator is notified or otherwise made aware.
Once aware, the content creator can dynamically create and offer a
content purchase option for the content on the current web page or
panel as well as one or more additional purchase options for the
similar content (e.g., if you like A, you can buy A and B together
for $10.00). These cross-sell aspects will be discussed in greater
detail with respect to FIGS. 20, 20A, 20B, and 21 below.
[0125] In some implementations, using the catalog 201, one or more
licensing options (e.g., licensing packages 204), can be
dynamically generated by a content creator using the system. In
other implementations, using the catalog 201 and the promotional
functionality 203, one or more licensing options (e.g., licensing
packages 204), can be dynamically generated by a content creator
using the system. Licensing packages 204 can include the price and
terms of a licensing agreement between a content creator and a
user. A user can be concurrently presented with one or more
licensing options. In exemplary instances in which the content is a
film, licensing options can include, but are not limited to, a
"high definition" ("HD") option (e.g., a "Blu-Ray" quality option),
an option that defines the terms of a rental agreement, an option
that defines the terms of a purchase agreement, an option
indicating whether the content is downloadable, or an option
indicating whether the user has access to bonus content. The
various licensing packages 204 can be, for example, part of
marketing module 138 of server 101 of FIG. 1C.
[0126] Additionally, in some implementations, one or more
additional licensing packages 204 can be dynamically generated and
presented to the user based upon user interaction with the system.
For example, as noted above, a content creator can dynamically
offer the user an up-sell or a cross-sell based upon a user
selection. In some implementations, when a user executes a first
license package 204 (e.g., rents content), and accepts an offer to
execute a second license package 204 (e.g., purchase the rented
content), the first license can expire upon the execution (e.g.,
acceptance) of the second offer. In other implementations, when a
user executes a first licensing package 204 (e.g., purchase of a
standard definition version of a film), and accepts an offer to
execute a second license package 204 (e.g., rent a high definition
version of the film), the first license can run concurrently with
the second offer. In still other implementations, when a user
executes a first licensing package 204 (e.g., purchase of a
standard definition version of a film), and accepts an offer to
execute a second license package 204 (e.g., rent a high definition
version of the film), the first license can be suspended for the
duration of the second offer. For example, the first license can be
selectively or automatically reinstated upon completion of the
second offer.
[0127] Additionally, in some implementations, licensing packages
204 can be activated and deactivated. For example, a licensing
package 204 can be activated or deactivated manually (e.g., by the
content creator), automatically (e.g., by the system), or in
accordance with one or more predefined settings (e.g., set by a
content creator). Dynamic creation of licensing packages 204 will
be discussed in greater detail with respect to FIGS. 18-24
below.
[0128] FIG. 3 shows an example display 300 of additional
relationships within the platform, including the actors within the
system. In addition to relationships between the catalog 201, the
promotional functionality 203, and the licensing packages 204, in
some implementations, there can be additional relationships.
Additional relationships can exist among content creators (e.g.,
participants 301), and the users of content (e.g., audience 306).
Relationships can be developed based upon interactions with one or
more aspects of the platform, for example. For example, as noted
above, using the catalog 201 and the promotional functionality 203,
a participant 301 can offer one or more licensing packages 204 to
an audience member 306 (e.g., a audience). In this example,
participants 301 can include a content provider such as anyone
offering a license for content (e.g., a filmmaker or a
distributor), or anyone participating in the creation of the
content (e.g., actors, writers, or directors).
[0129] In some implementations, a searchable index 302, which may
for example be included in report module 134 illustrated in FIG.
1C, can facilitate site navigation and organization of raw (e.g.,
unprocessed) and derived (e.g., processed) data corresponding to
user interaction with the platform. In some implementations, the
index 302 can include a hierarchical arrangement of un-weighted
attributes corresponding to content in the system. In other
implementations, the index 302 can include a hierarchical
arrangement of weighted attributes corresponding to content in the
system. Additionally, attributes can be weighted differently
according to a plurality of factors or words. For example, a
content creator (e.g., a filmmaker), can determine that a
particular word is of greater importance when searching the index.
In this example, this term can be assigned a greater weight and
thus it would appear higher up on a list of search results for that
term.
[0130] Audience 306 can interact with the index 302 (e.g., to
search and locate data). In some implementations, based upon
audience 306 interaction with the index 302, static data from the
catalog 201 and one or more licensing packages 204 can be presented
to audience 306. In some implementations, site activity 304 (e.g.,
audience interaction with a website), can be indexed 302 and stored
for later analysis. In these implementations, audience interaction
can include all activity up to and including a purchase. Thus, even
if a purchase is not made, data related to audience interaction
with content on the website can be indexed and used for later
analysis. In these implementations, audience interaction can
include all activity following a purchase. Thus, post purchase data
related to audience interaction with content on the website can
also be indexed and used for later analysis.
[0131] In some implementations, audience 306 can provide feedback
to the system using an editorial functionality 303, which in some
non-limiting embodiments may be a part of report database 136 of
server 101 illustrated in FIG. 1C. For example, audience 306 can
critique content (e.g., write a review), or rate content. In
another example, audience 306 can participate in a conversation or
on-line dialog about the content. In this example, audience 306 can
participate in a chat room dialog with one or more participants
301. In yet another example, an audience member 306 can generate a
review that can be posted or displayed (e.g., on a social network
website), where the audience member 306 and one or more other users
can participate in a dialog about the content.
[0132] In some implementations, site activity 304 and editorial
information 303 are combined to generate intelligence 305 that can
be used to generate new promotional functionalities 203 and new
licensing packages 204. In some implementations, new promotional
functionalities 203 and new licensing packages 204 can be based on
intelligence 305 and generated manually (e.g., by a participant
301). In some implementations, new promotional functionalities 203
can be generated automatically (e.g., by the system), based upon
prior participant 301 or audience 306 interactions with the system
or based on one or more predefined settings. In one non-limiting
embodiment, intelligence 305 is generated by report module 134 of
server 101 illustrated in FIG. 1C.
[0133] In some implementations, intelligence 305 can include raw
(e.g., unprocessed) and/or derived (e.g., processed) data.
Intelligence 305 can be dynamic (e.g., the return of content by a
dissatisfied audience can automatically change the intelligence
305). In some implementations, intelligence 305 can be processed
and statistics can be automatically generated (e.g., in real-time)
based upon website activity (e.g., audience 306 interaction).
Generated statistics can be used (e.g., by the system) to generate
one or more reports (e.g., based upon audience 306 interaction).
For example, reports can be used to examine account histories and
make recommendations (e.g., for a single account or for a group of
related accounts). Reports will be discussed in greater detail
below with respect to FIGS. 40-49. In some implementations,
generated statistics can be compared to one or more pre-defined
benchmarks or thresholds to determine whether promotional
functionalities 203 and licensing packages 204 need to be adjusted.
Adjustments to promotional functionalities 203 and licensing
packages 204 can allow a participant 301 to define and refine
efficient ways to target new and existing audience members 306
based upon system intelligence 305.
[0134] In the present system, a globally constant description of
static catalog data 201 allows a content creator to organize data
in accordance with user interest and user preference with respect
to content interaction. Additionally, other data corresponding to
the distribution and management of content (e.g., content price and
related terms of restriction), can be defined dynamically (e.g., in
accordance with intelligence 305). This decoupling facilitates data
aggregation, cross-content recommendations, and the dynamic (e.g.,
"on-the-fly") creation and distribution of licensing packages
(e.g., in real-time). For instance, all users can benefit from the
ability to interact with universal editorial information 303 while
concurrently having individualized licensing packages 204 available
(e.g., customized on an individual user basis).
[0135] FIG. 4 shows an exemplary interface 400 for use by a content
creator (e.g., a participant). Using the interface 400, the content
creator can manage content. For example, content interface 400 can
include one or more controls for managing 401 content. Controls for
managing content can include, but are not limited to, a catalog
control 402, a reports control 403, and an ad campaign control 404.
Additionally, interface 400 can include a viewing area 405 (e.g., a
window), for interacting (e.g., viewing) with content.
[0136] FIG. 5 shows an exemplary interface 500 for a catalog
control 402. Activating catalog control 402 can cause the system to
generate catalog interface 500. In some implementations, catalog
interface 500 can include catalog manager 501. In these
implementations, catalog manager 501 can include one or more
controls that can be used to interact with content in catalog 201.
Exemplary controls can include any combination of film catalog
control 502, offers control 503, up-sell control 504, cross-sell
control 505, and indirect control 506. Activating the film catalog
control 502 can cause the system to generate a list of content
(e.g., film content) created by the content creator using the
system (e.g., as recognized by a unique challenge such as a log-in
username and password). The list can include any combination of a
visual representation of the content 507, a textual description of
the content 508, and a visual indication 509 (e.g., a checkbox)
indicative of whether the content is active or inactive (e.g., a
checked box can indicate active content and an unchecked box can
indicate inactive content). In some implementations, using an add
control 510, the content creator can add content to the system, and
using the edit control 511, the content creator can edit content in
the system.
[0137] FIG. 6 shows an exemplary interface 600 for adding or
editing content using a control (e.g., film catalog control 502),
within catalog manager 501 (from FIG. 5). The interface 600 can
include one or more controls for adding or editing content. For
example, interface 600 can include any combination of presentation
control 601, categories control 602, reception control 603,
promotion content control 604, bonus content control 605,
territories control 606, and restrictions control 607. Activating
presentation control 601 can cause the system to generate
presentation interface 608 including one or more areas for entering
information about content. For example, presentation interface 608
can include title area 609 (e.g., for entering the title of film
content) and plot area 610 (e.g., for entering text regarding the
plot of film content). The presentation interface 608 can also
include active control 611 corresponding to visual indication 509
of FIG. 5. Selecting active control 611 can be an indication that
the content is active and de-selecting active control 611 can be an
indication that the content is inactive. Additionally, selecting
active control 611 can cause the system to check visual indication
509 for the content on interface 500 of FIG. 5 (e.g., indicating
that the content is active).
[0138] FIG. 7 shows another exemplary interface 700 for adding or
editing content using a control (e.g., film catalog control 502),
within catalog manager 501 (from FIG. 5). Activating the categories
control 602 in FIG. 6, can cause the system to generate categories
interface 701 including one or more areas for entering information
about content. For example, categories interface 701 can include
cast and crew area 702 (e.g., for entering information about the
cast and crew of film content), genres area 703 (e.g., for entering
information about the genre of film content), and ratings area 704
(e.g., for entering information about the rating of film
content).
[0139] FIG. 8 shows another exemplary interface 800 for adding or
editing content using a control (e.g., film catalog control 502),
within catalog manager 501 (from FIG. 5). Activating reception
control 603 in FIG. 6, can cause the system to generate reception
interface 801 including one or more areas for entering information
about content. For example, reception interface 801 can include any
combination of awards area 802 (e.g., for entering information
about awards given to film content), festivals area 803 (e.g., for
entering information about festivals including film content), and
reviews area 804 (e.g., for entering information about professional
reviews of film content).
[0140] FIG. 9 shows another exemplary interface 900 for adding or
editing content using a control (e.g., film catalog control 502),
within catalog manager 501 (from FIG. 5). Activating promotion
content control 604 in FIG. 6, can cause the system to generate
promotion content interface 901 including one or more areas for
entering information about content. For example, promotion content
interface 901 can include any combination of trailers area 905
(e.g., for entering information about trailers of the film
content), key frames area 902 (e.g., for entering information about
still images or key frames from the film content), and memorable
quotes area 903 (e.g., for entering information about memorable
quotes within the film content). Promotion content interface 901
can also include length of preview control 904 (e.g., for setting a
length of a preview of content).
[0141] FIG. 10 shows another exemplary interface 1000 for adding or
editing content using a control (e.g., the film catalog control
502), within catalog manager 501 (from FIG. 5). Activating bonus
content control 605 in FIG. 6 can cause the system to generate
bonus content interface 1001 including one or more areas for
entering information about bonus content. For example, bonus
content interface 1000 can include bonus videos area 905 (e.g., for
entering information about bonus videos corresponding to or
available with the film content). In some implementations, a
content creator can make bonus content available dynamically as a
licensing package. In these implementations, the bonus content
licensing packages can run independent of or dependent upon any
other licensing agreement (e.g., rental or purchase license).
Additionally, a content provider can make bonus content available
on the system dynamically, and at any time. Any bonus content made
available on the system can be downloaded by a user at any time,
once the user has purchased the corresponding bonus content
licensing agreement.
[0142] FIG. 11 shows another example interface 1100 for adding or
editing content using a control (e.g., the film catalog control
502), within catalog manager 501 (from FIG. 5). Activating
territories control 606 in FIG. 6, can cause the system to generate
territories interface 1101 including one or more areas for entering
information about content. For example, territories interface 1101
can include preview area 1102 for selecting one or more geographic
regions (e.g., cities, states, towns, regions, countries, sets of
countries, etc.) and/or Internet domains (e.g., predetermined sets
of IP address, top level domains, country code top level domains,
websites, ISPs, etc.) from which the content creator will allow
users to preview the content (e.g., the film content). In the
example depicted in FIG. 11, if the content creator would like to
exclude any users within a particular country from being able to
preview the content, the content creator can select that country
(e.g., by highlighting the country and activating a select button).
Once selected, the country will appear in no preview area 1103 and
users in that country will not be permitted to preview the
content.
[0143] In another example, the content creator can choose to not
permit previews of the content in all countries except a select
few. In this example, the content creator can select all the
countries listed in preview area 1102 (e.g., by highlighting those
countries and activating a select button). The list of countries
will then appear in no preview area 1103. To select particular
countries allowed to preview the content, the content creator would
then select that country in no preview area 1103 (e.g., by
highlighting the country and activating a select button). Once
selected, the country will appear in preview area 1102 and users in
that country will be permitted to preview the content. In some
implementations, territories interface 1101 can assist a content
creator in conforming to the terms of a geographically restrictive
third-party licensing agreement.
[0144] FIG. 12 shows another exemplary interface 1200 for adding or
editing content using a control (e.g., the film catalog control
502), within catalog manager 501 (from FIG. 5). Activating
restrictions control 607 in FIG. 6, can cause the system to
generate restrictions interface 1201 including one or more areas
for entering information about content. For example, restrictions
interface 1200 can include manage profanities area 1202 used to
restrict the type of language allowed in tags and reviews (e.g.,
submitted by audiences providing feedback to the system using
editorial functionality 303). The manage profanities area 1202 can
include any combination of tolerance to graphic language area 1203
(e.g., indicating a permitted level of tolerance), and types of
language to restrict area 1204 (e.g., by subject matter
[0145] FIG. 13 shows an exemplary interface 1300 for creating
offers (e.g., licensing packages) using a control (e.g., the offers
control 503), within catalog manager 501 (from FIG. 5). In some
implementations, offers (e.g., licensing packages) can be
dynamically created (e.g., by a content creator) at any time, and
offered as a licensing option (e.g., to a user). In some
implementations, interface 1300 can include one or more controls
for defining a licensing package. For example, a licensing option
can include the purchase of content (e.g., film content). In this
example, using offer type control 1301, a content provider (e.g., a
participant), can select a purchase option. Additionally, a content
provider can set a price for the purchase option using the price
control 1302. In some implementations, additional controls (e.g.,
checkboxes), can be used to set one or more parameters of a
licensing package (e.g., whether a licensing package is active
1303, whether a content download will be allowed 1304, or whether
bonus content can be downloaded 1305). Once all the terms of a
licensing package have been determined, the licensing package can
be generated and displayed.
[0146] FIG. 14 shows an exemplary interface 1400 for use when
interacting with one or more licensing packages. As noted above,
once a licensing package has been generated, the licensing package
can be displayed. In some implementations, the display for a
purchase licensing package can include purchase button 1401.
Activating purchase button 1401 allows the user (e.g., an
audience), to purchase content associated with a purchase licensing
package. In some implementations, additional information can be
displayed (e.g., a description of the licensing package 1402, or a
price of the licensing package 1403). Additionally, as noted above,
selecting active control 1303 (from FIG. 13), can cause the system
to check visual indication 1404 for the purchase licensing package
on interface 1400 (e.g., indicating that the purchase licensing
package is active).
[0147] In some implementations, the system can also generate a
rental licensing package, in which a recipient of the content can
play the content any number of times desired within a period of
time defined by the license, and a play n-number of times licensing
package, in which a recipient of the content can only play the
content n number of times (e.g., once, twice, three times, etc.).
FIG. 15 shows an exemplary interface 1500 for creating an offer
(e.g., a rental licensing package). FIG. 16 shows an exemplary
interface 1600 for use when interacting with one or more licensing
packages. In some implementations, each licensing package can be
displayed separately. In some implementations, activation of
purchase button 1401 can be tied to rental button 1402 (e.g.,
selection of purchase button 1401 can deactivate the licensing
package associated with a previously selected rental button 1402).
In some implementations, each licensing package can be activated
and deactivated separately. Thus, in these implementations,
purchase button 1401 can be activated and deactivated separately
and distinctly from rental button 1402 (e.g., activation of
purchase button 1401 can have no effect upon the state of rental
button 1402). FIG. 17 shows an exemplary interface 1700 for
creating another offer (e.g., a play once licensing package). One
of skill in the art will appreciate that the play once licensing
offer in FIG. 17 is just one example of a n-number of times
licensing package and that the present disclosure fully
contemplates an n-number of times licensing package where n is any
positive integer.
[0148] FIG. 18 shows an exemplary up-sell interface 1800 for
creating an up-sell (e.g., an up-sell licensing package) using a
control (e.g., the up-sell control 504), within catalog manager 501
(from FIG. 5). In some implementations, an up-sell (e.g., an
up-sell licensing package) can be dynamically created (e.g., by a
content creator) at any time, and offered as a licensing option
(e.g., to a user). In some implementations, interface 1800 can
include one or more controls for defining an up-sell licensing
package. As noted above, an up-sell can include an ability to
up-sell content (e.g., using a licensing package). In these
implementations, when a user exhibits an interest in paying a first
amount for a limited use license to use content for a predefined
time period (e.g., a day), the content creator can dynamically
create and offer the user another license option to use the same
content at a second amount and for a different period of time
(e.g., forever).
[0149] Referring to FIG. 18, a content creator can create an
up-sell option for any content created and/or offered by the
content creator (e.g., source content 1801) as well as an upgrade
1802 to any content created and/or offered by the content creator.
Up-sell interface 1800 can include one or more areas for entering
data corresponding to the up-sell. For example, up-sell interface
1800 can include any combination of price area 1803 (e.g., for
setting an up-sell price), currency area 1804 (e.g., for setting a
type of currency for the up-sell), start date 1805 (e.g., for
setting a start date for the up-sell offer), end date 1806 (e.g.,
for setting an end date for the up-sell offer), and active control
1807 (e.g., for indicating whether the up-sell licensing package is
active). Once submitted, an up-sell licensing package can be
displayed (e.g., to a user). FIG. 19 shows an exemplary interface
1900 for use when interacting with one or more up-sell licensing
packages. As noted above, selecting active control 1807 can cause
the system to check visual indication 1901 for the up-sell
licensing package on interface 1900 (e.g., indicating that the
up-sell licensing package is active).
[0150] FIG. 20 shows an exemplary cross-sell interface 2000 for
creating a cross-sell option (e.g., a cross-sell licensing package)
using a control (e.g., cross-sell control 505) within catalog
manager 501 (from FIG. 5). In some implementations, a cross-sell
option (e.g., a cross-sell licensing package) can be dynamically
created (e.g., by a content creator) at any time, and offered as a
licensing option (e.g., to a user). In some implementations,
interface 2000 can include one or more controls for defining a
cross-sell licensing package. As noted above, a cross-sell can
include an ability to cross-sell related or unrelated content
(e.g., using a licensing package). For example, when a user
exhibits an interest in licensing content, the content creator can
dynamically create and offer the user another license option for
similar content.
[0151] Referring to FIG. 20, a content creator can create a
cross-sell option for any content. Cross-sell interface 2000 can
include one or more areas for entering data corresponding to a
cross-sell option. For example, cross-sell interface 2000 can
include any combination of start date 2001 (e.g., for setting a
start date for the cross-sell offer), end date 2002 (e.g., for
setting an end date for the cross-sell offer), and active control
2003 (e.g., for indicating whether the cross-sell licensing package
is active). Once submitted, a cross-sell licensing package can be
displayed.
[0152] FIG. 20A shows an exemplary license cross-sell interface
2010 for creating a cross-sell option. Cross-sell interface 2010
can include one or more areas for entering data corresponding to a
cross-sell option. For example, when a user exhibits an interest in
licensing content, the content creator can dynamically create and
offer the user another license option for similar content. In this
example, when a user selects a content rental or purchase option
corresponding to first content (e.g., a video), the content creator
is notified or otherwise made aware. Once aware, the content
creator can dynamically create and offer a content purchase option
for similar second content (e.g., if you like A, you can buy B for
$3.00).
[0153] FIG. 20B shows an exemplary bundle cross-sell interface 2020
for creating a cross-sell option. Cross-sell interface 2020 can
include one or more areas for entering data corresponding to a
cross-sell option. In yet another example, when a user exhibits an
interest in licensing content, the content creator can dynamically
create and offer the user an additional licensing bundle for
similar content. In this example, when a user selects a page on
which content is hosted, the content creator is notified or
otherwise made aware. Once aware, the content creator can
dynamically create and offer a content purchase option for the
content on the current page as well as one or more additional
purchase options for the similar content (e.g., if you like A, you
can buy A and B together for $10.00), as part of a bundle of
content.
[0154] FIG. 21 shows an exemplary interface 2100 for use when
interacting with one or more cross-sell licensing packages. As
noted above, selecting active control 2003 can cause the system to
check visual indication 2101 for the cross-sell licensing package
on interface 2100 (e.g., indicating that the cross-sell licensing
package is active).
[0155] FIG. 22 shows an exemplary indirect interface 2000 for
creating an insider offer (e.g., a pitch licensing package) using a
control (e.g., indirect control 506), within catalog manager 501
(from FIG. 5). In some implementations, an insider offer (e.g., a
pitch licensing package), can be dynamically created at any time
(e.g., by a content creator), and offered as a licensing option
(e.g., to a third party user such as an industry insider). In some
implementations, interface 2200 can include one or more controls
for defining an insider offer (e.g., a limited ability to promote
content without the ability to sell the content). A content creator
can create an insider offer for any content. Insider interface 2200
can include one or more areas for entering data corresponding to an
insider offer. For example, insider interface 2200 can include
pitch area 2201 for indicating one or more terms of a pitch
licensing package, and active control 2202 (e.g., for indicating
whether the pitch licensing package is active). Once submitted, the
pitch licensing package can be displayed.
[0156] FIG. 23 shows an exemplary interface 2300 for use when
interacting with one or more pitch licensing packages. As noted
above, selecting the active control 2202 can cause the system to
check the visual indication 2301 for the pitch licensing package on
interface 2300 (e.g., indicating that the pitch licensing package
is active). In some implementations, when a third party (e.g., an
influencer or industry insider), indicates an interest in content
(e.g., by selecting the content), the content creator can send the
industry insider a pitch licensing package. In these
implementations, the content creator can be notified of the insider
interest (e.g., by the system), or discover the insider interest by
monitoring the system (e.g., by generating one or more
reports).
[0157] In some implementations, an influencer can be any third
party who influences the awareness, perception, viewing behaviors,
or purchasing behaviors of others within the influencer's
community, locale, social network, peer group, colleagues, etc., to
raise awareness, promote dialog or generate sales of content.
[0158] In some implementations, an insider can be any third party
granted the right to perform one or more of the following functions
with respect to content or content-related data: processing,
marketing, promotion, management, packaging, merchandising,
fulfillment, delivery, distribution, licensing, and enforcement of
content or content-related data. In some implementations, an
insider can be considered a content provider.
[0159] A content provider is any third party granted the right to
market or distribute (including, without limitation,
subdistribution, syndication, and licensing of) a content creator's
content or content-related data. A content provider can include,
but is not limited to, a distributor, subdistributor, producer's
representative, sales agent, buyer, aggregator, publisher, network,
broadcaster, syndicator, assignee, and licensee of content or
content-related data. In some implementations, a content provider
can perform any and all functions associated with the systems and
methods provided herein.
[0160] It should be understood that any and all functions performed
by a content creator can also be performed by a content
provider.
[0161] In some implementations, an insider interest functionality
allows the insider to limit the number of pitch licensing packages
they receive (e.g., packages are only sent when interest is
expressly indicated). Additionally, content creators are able to
monitor insider interest. For example, when an insider indicates
interest in content, the content creator can run a report to see
whether additional different insider interest exists. If the report
is indicative of additional different insider interest, the content
creator can choose to negotiate with the insider. If the report is
indicative of no additional insider interest, the content creator
can choose to accept an insider offer without further negotiation.
FIG. 24 shows an exemplary interface 2400 for use by an industry
insider (e.g., a third party promoter or influencer). Using the
interface 2400, an industry insider can indicate interest in, view,
and express an interest in licensing content.
[0162] In some implementations, when a party (e.g., a content
creator or a third party), indicates an interest in promoting
content (e.g., using an ad campaign), the system can generate one
or more content-related advertisements. FIGS. 24A-24G show
exemplary interfaces for interacting with content to create, renew,
generate, and/or display content-related advertisements. FIG. 24A
shows example interface 2410 for use by a party (e.g., a content
creator or a third party). FIG. 24B shows exemplary interface 2420
including a list of renewable content-related advertisements 2421
and a link 2422 to facilitate creation of new renewable
content-related advertisements. FIG. 24C shows an exemplary
interface 2430 including one or more areas for entering
content-related data. Using exemplary interface 2430, a party
(e.g., a content creator or a third party), can generate one or
more content-related advertisements. FIG. 24D shows an example
interface 2440 including a summary of a new content-related
advertisement corresponding to the content-related data entered in
FIG. 24C. Using example interface 2440, a party (e.g., a content
creator or a third party), can confirm or cancel a new
content-related advertisement. In some implementations, when a new
content-related advertisement is confirmed, the system can generate
a payment screen to facilitate payment.
[0163] FIG. 24E shows an exemplary interface 2450 including one or
more areas for entering content-related data. Using example
interface 2450, a party (e.g., a content creator or a third party),
can renew one or more existing content-related advertisements. FIG.
24F shows an exemplary interface 2460 including a renewal summary
of the content-related advertisement corresponding to the
content-related data entered in FIG. 24E. Using exemplary interface
2460, a party (e.g., a content creator or a third party), can
confirm or cancel the renewal of a content-related advertisement.
In some implementations, when the renewal of a content-related
advertisement is confirmed, the system can generate a payment
screen to facilitate payment.
[0164] FIG. 24G shows an exemplary interface 2470 of search results
(e.g., based upon a search that incorporates one or more
advertisement keywords). Exemplary interface 2470 can be viewed by
any user (e.g., audience member), using the system. Exemplary
interface 2470 can include a graphical depiction of content 2471
(e.g., the promoted video content), corresponding to a
content-related advertisement and one or more content-related
advertisement keywords. Additionally, exemplary interface 2470 can
also include a graphical depiction of search results 2472 (e.g.,
content that corresponds to the search that incorporates the one or
more content-related advertisement keywords).
[0165] FIG. 25 shows an exemplary interface 2500 for setting and
editing user (e.g., audience member) account settings. Interface
2500 can include one or more areas for entering user account
information such as a unique challenge (e.g., user name and a
password) and any other personal information requested or required
by the system. Interface 2500 can also include an account
preferences area 2501 for setting one or more user account
preferences such as tolerance for strong language setting 2503,
strong language classification filter 2504, and other account
preference options 2505 (e.g., display unrated content, closed
captioning, product and service updates, and profile creation).
Additionally, interface 2500 can also include linked accounts area
2502 for indicating related accounts (e.g., social networking
accounts), and facilitating connection to related accounts.
[0166] FIG. 26 shows an exemplary interface 2600 for viewing
account activity (e.g., active rentals, viewing history, purchases,
or download history). Interface 2600 can include expandable active
rental area 2601 for viewing information corresponding to currently
active rentals. FIG. 27 also shows exemplary interface 2600 for
viewing account activity. Interface 2600 can also include an
expandable viewing history area 2701 for viewing information
corresponding to a user viewing history. FIG. 28 also shows
exemplary interface 2600 for viewing account activity. Interface
2600 can also include an expandable my purchases area 2801 for
viewing information corresponding to the user purchases. FIG. 29
also shows exemplary interface 2600 for viewing account activity.
Interface 2600 can also include an expandable "my download" history
area 2901 for viewing information corresponding to a user download
history.
[0167] FIG. 30 shows an exemplary interface 3000 for use by a user
(e.g., an audience member), when interacting with the system. Using
the interface 3000, a user can interact with content. For example,
interface 3000 can include a viewing area 3001 (e.g., a window),
for interacting with (e.g., viewing), content. In some
implementations, as noted above, content can be categorized
statically (e.g., by the user) or dynamically (e.g., manually by
the user or automatically by the system). In these implementations,
a user can browse categorized content (e.g., by genre or by
popularity).
[0168] FIGS. 31-34 show exemplary interfaces for browsing content.
FIG. 31 shows an exemplary interface 3100 for browsing content.
Interface 3100 can include one or more example controls 3101, 3102,
3103, and 3104 for changing content perspective (e.g., zooming in
(drilling down) on content and zooming out (drilling up) on
content). Interface 3100 includes a depiction of content from the
perspective associated with example control 3101. Selecting another
exemplary control can provide the user with a different perspective
of the content. FIG. 32 shows an exemplary interface 3200 including
a depiction of content from the perspective associated with example
control 3102. FIG. 33 shows an exemplary interface 3300 including a
depiction of content from the perspective associated with example
control 3103. FIG. 34 shows an exemplary interface 3400 including a
depiction of content from the perspective associated with example
control 3104.
[0169] FIGS. 35-39 show exemplary interfaces for interacting with
content. FIG. 35 shows an exemplary interface 3500 that is an
expanded version of interface 3000 (shown in FIG. 30) for use by a
user (e.g., an audience member) when interacting with the system.
Specifically, interface 3000 (from FIG. 30) can be expanded into a
fixed interface 3500 showing additional controls 3502, 3503, and
3504 that can be used to interact with content. For example,
interacting with an "about this" control 3502 (e.g., an "about this
film" control) can cause the system to generate and display data
corresponding to content (e.g., content displayed in viewing area
3001) in expanded viewing area 3501. In some implementations,
interface 3500 can also include one or more content recommendations
3505. In some implementations, one or more licensing packages noted
above (e.g., an up-sell) can be manually (e.g., by a content
creator) or dynamically (e.g., by the system) generated and
displayed to a user. FIG. 35A shows an exemplary interface 3550
including a licensing package upgrade option 3551 (e.g., an
unlimited content download for a purchase price of $71).
Additionally, FIG. 35A includes a larger interface 3000 (from FIG.
30) and a dynamically expanded area that can contain catalog and
editorial information that becomes available after a user has
purchased content. In some implementations, selecting the licensing
package 3551 can cause the system to end any other licensing
package (e.g., a limited rental) corresponding to the same
content.
[0170] FIG. 36 shows an example interface 3600 including additional
"reviews" control 3503 (e.g., a "customer reviews" control).
Interacting with reviews control 3503 can cause the system to
generate and display one or more areas in which a user (e.g., a
customer) can enter data corresponding to a review of content
(e.g., content displayed in viewing area 3001) in expanded viewing
area 3601. Review data can be displayed (e.g., in accordance with
manage profanities area 1202 noted in FIG. 12 above). For example,
reviews can be edited automatically by the system to comply with
graphic language area 1203, and types of language to restrict area
1204 in manage profanities area 1202 (e.g., noted above in FIG.
12). FIG. 37 shows an exemplary interface 3700 displaying review
data in expanded viewing area 3701.
[0171] FIG. 38 shows an exemplary interface 3800 including
additional "tags" control 3504. Interacting with the tags control
3504 can cause the system to generate and display one or more areas
in which a user (e.g., a customer) can enter tag data corresponding
to a content tag (e.g., a tag corresponding to and used to search
for content displayed in viewing area 3001), in expanded viewing
area 3801. Tag data can be displayed (e.g., in accordance with
manage profanities area 1202 noted above). In some implementations,
tags can be edited automatically by the system to comply with
graphic language area 1203, and types of language to restrict area
1204 in manage profanities area 1202. FIG. 39 shows an exemplary
interface 3900 displaying tag data in expanded viewing area
3901.
[0172] In some implementations, as noted with respect to FIG. 3
above, intelligence 305 can be processed and statistics can be
automatically generated (e.g., in real-time) based upon website
activity (e.g., audience 306 interaction). Generated statistics can
be used (e.g., by the system) to generate one or more reports
(e.g., based upon audience 306 interaction). For example, reports
can be used by a content creator to examine account histories and
to make one or more content recommendations or offers (e.g.,
licensing packages). Additionally, content recommendations or
offers can be made available for a single account or for a group of
related accounts.
[0173] Reports can be generated according to one or more parameters
such as report type, report demographic, and report dimension.
Report types can include, but are not limited to, business activity
and site activity. In some implementations, business activity and
site activity can be further categorized. For example, business
activity can be categorized by revenues, purchases, impressions,
streams, downloads, bookmarks, ratings, reviews, tags, insider
interactions, video search click throughs, video search ad click
throughs, video search ad impressions, and referral search ad
impressions. Site activity, for example, can be categorized by
visitors, logins, registrations, revenues, purchases, impressions,
streams, downloads, bookmarks, ratings, reviews, tags, insider
interactions, video search click throughs, video search ad click
throughs, video search ad impressions, and referral search ad
impressions.
[0174] FIGS. 40-49 show exemplary interfaces for interacting with
content to generate and display reports. FIG. 40 shows exemplary
interface 4000 including an example activity report. In some
implementations, an example activity report can include one or more
selectable options for specifying content selection and for
generating one or more graphic interpretations (e.g., scatter plot,
pie chart, bar chart, etc.) of the selected content. In this
example, an activity report has been generated based upon the
report demographic 4001. Report demographic 4001 can include
selectable region 4002 that can list one or more selectable report
demographic options such as country, gender, or age. In this
example, an activity report has been generated based upon a
selection 4002 of report demographic 4001 country. Additionally, a
selection 4002 of a report demographic 4001 country can cause the
system to generate one or more additional options (e.g., dropdown
menu 4003) for specifying content selection by geographic region
(e.g., cities, states, towns, regions, countries, sets of
countries, etc.). Example interface 4000 also includes a graphic
interpretation 4004 of the selected content.
[0175] FIG. 41 shows an exemplary interface 4100 including another
exemplary activity report. In this example, an activity report has
been generated based upon a selection 4002 of the report
demographic 4001 "gender". Additionally, a selection 4002 of a
report demographic 4001 can cause the system to generate one or
more additional options (e.g., dropdown menu 4103), for specifying
content selection by gender. Exemplary interface 4100 also includes
a graphic interpretation 4104 of the selected content. FIG. 42
shows an exemplary interface 4200 including another exemplary
activity report. In this example, an activity report has been
generated based upon a selection 4002 of a report demographic 4001
age. Additionally, a selection 4002 of a report demographic 4001
can cause the system to generate one or more additional options
(e.g., options area 4201), for specifying content selection by age
(e.g., age grouping, maximum age, or minimum age). Exemplary
interface 4200 also includes a graphic interpretation 4202 of the
selected content.
[0176] FIG. 43 shows an exemplary interface 4300 including another
exemplary activity report. In this example, the activity report has
been generated based upon the report dimension 4301. Report
dimension 4301 can include a selectable region 4302 that can list
one or more selectable report dimension options such as rating,
video, genre, or type of license package. In this example, an
activity report has been generated based upon a selection 4302 of
report dimension 4301 rating. Additionally, a selection 4302 of a
report dimension 4301 rating can cause the system to generate one
or more additional options (e.g., dropdown menu 4303), for
specifying content selection by rating. Exemplary interface 4300
also includes a graphic interpretation 4304 of the selected
content.
[0177] FIG. 44 shows an exemplary interface 4400 including another
exemplary activity report. In this example, an activity report has
been generated based upon a selection 4302 of the report dimension
4301 video. Additionally, a selection 4302 of a report dimension
can cause the system to generate one or more additional options
(e.g., dropdown menu 4401), for specifying content selection by
video. Exemplary interface 4400 also includes a graphic
interpretation 4402 of the selected content. FIG. 45 shows an
exemplary interface 4500 including another example activity report.
In this example, an activity report has been generated based upon a
selection 4302 of report dimension 4301 genre. Additionally, a
selection 4302 of the report dimension 4301 can cause the system to
generate one or more additional options (e.g., dropdown menu 4501)
for specifying content selection by genre. Exemplary interface 4500
also includes a graphic interpretation 4502 of the selected
content.
[0178] FIG. 46 shows an exemplary interface 4400 including a pie
chart graphic interpretation 4601 of content. In this example, the
content is graphically displayed in a pie chart 4601 in accordance
with a selected 4002 report demographic 4001 gender. FIG. 47 shows
an exemplary interface 4700 including a pie chart graphic
interpretation 4701 of content. In this example, the content is
graphically displayed in a pie chart 4701 in accordance with a
selected 4302 report dimension 4301 rating. In some
implementations, one or more reports can be generated based upon
any combination of report demographic and report dimension
selections.
[0179] FIG. 48 shows an exemplary interface 4800 including a bar
chart graphic interpretation 4801 of content. In this example, the
content is graphically displayed in a bar chart 4801 in accordance
with a selected 4002 report demographic 4001 gender and a selected
4302 report dimension 4301 rating (e.g., as a cross section graphic
display by gender and rating). FIG. 49 shows an exemplary interface
4900 including a bar chart graphic interpretation 4901 of content.
In this example, the content is graphically displayed in a bar
chart 4901 in accordance with a selected 4002 report demographic
4001 gender and a selected 4302 report dimension 4301 rating (e.g.,
as a cross section graphic display by rating and gender).
[0180] Embodiments of the subject matter and the functional
operations described in this specification optionally can be
implemented in digital electronic circuitry, or in computer
software, firmware, or hardware, including the structures disclosed
in this specification and their structural equivalents, or in
combinations of one or more of them. Embodiments of the subject
matter described in this specification can, for example, be
implemented as one or more computer program products, e.g., one or
more modules of computer program instructions encoded on a
computer-readable medium for execution by, or to control the
operation of, data processing apparatus.
[0181] The computer-readable medium can be a machine-readable
tangible storage device, a machine-readable tangible storage
substrate, a tangible memory device, or a combination of one or
more of them. The term "data processing apparatus" encompasses all
apparatus, devices, and machines for processing data, including by
way of example a programmable processor, a computer, or multiple
processors or computers. The apparatus can include, in addition to
hardware, code that creates an execution environment for the
computer program in question, e.g., code that constitutes processor
firmware, a protocol stack, a database management system, an
operating system, or a combination of one or more of them, A
computer program (also known as a program, software, software
application, script, or code), can be written in any form of
programming language, including compiled or interpreted languages,
and it can be deployed in any form, including as a stand-alone
program or as a module, component, subroutine, or other unit
suitable for use in a computing environment. A computer program
does not necessarily correspond to a file in a file system. A
program can be stored in a portion of a file that holds other
programs or data (e.g., on or more scripts stored in a markup
language document), in a single file dedicated to the program in
question, or in multiple coordinated files (e.g., files that store
one or more modules, sub-programs, or portions of code). A computer
program can be deployed to be executed on one computer or on
multiple computers that are located at one site or distributed
across multiple sites and interconnected by a communication
network.
[0182] The processes and logic flows described in this
specification can be performed by one or more programmable
processors executing one or more computer programs to perform
functions by operating on input data and generating output. The
processes and logic flows can also be performed by, and apparatus
can also be implemented as, special purpose logic circuitry, e.g.,
an FPGA (field programmable gate array) or an ASIC
(application-specific integrated circuit).
[0183] Processors suitable for the execution of a computer program
include, by way of example, both general and special purpose
microprocessors, and any one or more processors of any kind of
digital computer. Generally, a processor will receive instructions
and data from a read-only memory or a random access memory or both.
The essential elements of a computer are a processor for performing
instructions and one or more memory devices for storing
instructions and data. Generally, a computer will also include, or
be operatively coupled to receive data from or transfer data to, or
both, one or more mass storage devices for storing data, e.g.,
magnetic, magneto-optical disks, or optical disks. However, a
computer need not have such devices. Moreover, a computer can be
embedded in another device, e.g., a mobile telephone, a personal
digital assistant (PDA), a mobile audio player, a Global
Positioning System (GPS) receiver, to name just a few.
Computer-readable media suitable for storing computer program
instructions and data include all forms of nonvolatile memory,
media, and memory devices, including by way of example
semiconductor memory devices, e.g., EPROM, EEPROM, and flash memory
devices; magnetic disks, e.g., internal hard disks or removable
disks; magneto-optical disks; and CD-ROM and DVD-ROM disks. The
processor and the memory can be supplemented by, or incorporated
in, special purpose logic circuitry.
[0184] To provide for interaction with a user, embodiments of the
subject matter described in this specification can be implemented
on a computer having a display device, e.g., a CRT (cathode ray
tube) to LCD (liquid crystal display) monitor, for displaying
information to the user and a keyboard and a pointing device, e.g.,
a mouse or a trackball, by which the user can provide input to the
computer. Other kinds of devices can be used to provide for
interaction with a user as well; for example, feedback provided to
the user can be any form of sensory feedback, e.g., visual
feedback, auditory feedback, or tactile feedback; and input from
the user can be received in any from, including acoustic, speech,
or tactile input.
[0185] Embodiments of the subject matter described in this
specification can be implemented in a computing system that
includes a back-end component, e.g., as a data server, or that
includes a middleware component, e.g., an application server, or
that includes a front-end component, e.g., a client computer having
a graphical user interface or a Web browser through which a user
can interact with an implementation of the subject matter described
in this specification, or any combination of one or more such
back-end, middleware, or front-end components. The components of
the system can be interconnected by any form or medium of digital
data communication, e.g., a communication network. Examples of
communication networks include a local area network ("LAN") and a
wide area network ("WAN"), e.g., the Internet.
[0186] The computing system can include clients and servers. A
client and server are generally remote from each other and
typically interact through a communication network. The
relationship of client and server arises by virtue of computer
programs running on the respective computers and having a
client-server relationship to each other.
[0187] While this specification contains many specifics, these
should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the
invention or of what may be claimed, but rather as descriptions of
features specific to particular embodiments of the invention.
Certain features that are described in this specification in the
context or separate embodiments can also be implemented in
combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features
that are described in the context of a single embodiment can also
be implemented in multiple embodiments separately or in any
suitable subcombination. Moreover, although features may be
described above as acting in certain combinations and even
initially claimed as such, one or more features from a claimed
combination can in some cases be excised from the combination, and
the claimed combination may be directed o a subcombination or
variation of a subcombination.
[0188] Similarly, while operations are depicted in the drawings in
a particular order, this should not be understood as requiring that
such operations be performed in the particular order shown or in
sequential order, or that all illustrated operations be performed,
to achieve desirable results. In certain circumstances,
multitasking and parallel processing may be advantageous. Moreover,
the separation of various system components in the embodiments
described above should not be understood as requiring such
separation in all embodiments, and it should be understood that the
described program components and systems can generally be
integrated together in a single software product or packaged into
multiple software products.
[0189] Thus, particular embodiments of the invention have been
described. Other embodiments are within the scope of the following
claims. For example, the actions recited in the claims can be
performed in a different order and still achieve desirable
results.
* * * * *